Starting therapy is a brave and powerful decision. For many people, the first step, reaching out for help, is often the hardest one to take. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, or depression, beginning therapy means you’re ready to invest in your emotional well-being and start creating meaningful change.
At Leslie Psychology in St. Petersburg, FL, Dr. Sara Leslie understands that your first therapy session can feel both hopeful and uncertain. Knowing what to expect can ease your nerves and help you feel more comfortable as you begin your journey toward greater clarity and peace.
1. A Warm Welcome and Supportive Space
From the moment you walk in, or log on, if you’re attending a virtual session, you’ll be greeted with compassion and understanding. Dr. Leslie creates a calming, nonjudgmental space where you can speak freely about what’s been on your mind. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out. The first session is simply about beginning a conversation and helping you feel at ease.
2. Talking About What Brings You to Therapy
The first session typically begins with an open discussion about what led you to seek therapy. You might talk about what’s been bothering you, when your challenges began, or how they’re affecting your life. Dr. Leslie may ask gentle questions to understand your experiences, goals, and what you hope to gain from therapy.
There’s no right or wrong way to share. Whether you have a clear concern or just a general sense that something feels “off,” the first session helps create a clearer picture of what you’re experiencing.
3. Learning About the Therapy Process
Dr. Leslie will explain what therapy looks like at Leslie Psychology, how sessions are structured, how often you’ll meet, and what approaches may be most helpful for your needs. She offers both short-term counseling and long-term psychotherapy for adults, depending on your goals.
You’ll also have the opportunity to ask any questions about confidentiality, scheduling, or anything else that helps you feel informed and comfortable.
4. Beginning to Set Goals Together
Therapy is a collaborative process. During your first session, you and Dr. Leslie will begin to outline what success might look like for you, whether that’s managing anxiety more effectively, improving relationships, increasing confidence, or finding balance in your life.
These early goals aren’t set in stone. As therapy continues, they may evolve as you gain insight and grow emotionally. The focus is always on helping you move toward a more fulfilling and peaceful life.
5. Reflecting and Planning Next Steps
Before the session ends, Dr. Leslie will check in to see how you’re feeling and discuss what comes next. Many clients leave their first session feeling lighter, relieved to have shared their story and to know they’re no longer facing their struggles alone.
Therapy is an ongoing process, and progress often builds over time. Dr. Leslie’s compassionate, mind-body approach helps clients feel seen, understood, and supported as they work toward meaningful, lasting change.
Take the First Step Toward Healing Today
It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions before your first therapy session, but once you take that first step, you may find that relief begins right away. You deserve the chance to feel calm, capable, and more connected to yourself.
If you’re ready to begin your journey, contact Leslie Psychology today to schedule your first individual therapy session with Dr. Sara Leslie in St. Petersburg, FL.