Taking the step to begin behavioral health counseling is a meaningful decision, and one that often comes with questions or uncertainty. Your first session is an opportunity to start laying the groundwork for change and healing, regardless of your needs—stress, emotional control, bad habits, or obstacles in life.
While every counselor has their approach, most first sessions follow a general structure designed to create a safe environment, establish goals, and begin understanding your unique experiences. If you’re considering behavioral health counseling in Denver for the first time, here’s what you can expect—and how to make the most of it.
- A Warm Welcome And Safe Environment
Walking into your first counseling session may feel intimidating, especially if you’re unsure of what to say or worried about being judged. Rest assured, behavioral health counselors are trained to create a space that’s confidential, respectful, and free from judgment. Whether the session is in-person or via telehealth, the goal is to make you feel comfortable and supported.
Expect the counselor to start with a warm introduction and explain how the session will proceed. They may review your rights as a client, including confidentiality policies and limits (such as mandatory reporting in cases of harm or danger).
- A Focus On Understanding Your Story
Counseling is an organized way to examine your thoughts, habits, and emotions, as opposed to a casual talk. In the first session, your counselor will likely ask questions to get a broad understanding of what brings you in.
These may include:
- What concerns or challenges are you facing right now?
- When did the issue start?
- How have you tried to cope with or manage it so far?
- Have you previously been diagnosed with any illnesses or mental health conditions?
- What does a typical day look like for you?
This session is not about solving everything at once—it’s about laying the groundwork for a meaningful counseling relationship.
- Exploration Of Your Goals
Behavioral health counseling is often goal-oriented. During your first session, you and your counselor may begin identifying what you hope to achieve. Depending on your circumstances, goals might be either general or particular. For example, you might want to:
- Improve sleep habits.
- Manage anxiety or panic attacks.
- Reduce emotional outbursts.
- Navigate a major life change.
- Improve relationships.
- Break unhealthy behavioral patterns.
Setting goals helps guide future sessions and ensures your counseling experience remains focused and beneficial.
- Discussion Of Relevant History
Your counselor may explore aspects of your background that relate to your current concerns. This could include your family dynamics, past traumas, relationships, academic or work history, and previous counseling experiences.
While you’re encouraged to share openly, it’s also okay to set boundaries. You can go at your own pace—there’s no pressure to talk about painful experiences until you’re ready. Trust and comfort develop over time.
- An Introduction To Counseling Methods
Your counselor might describe their method, which may include mindfulness-based techniques, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They might also describe how future sessions will work, including session length, frequency, and structure.
If something feels unclear, this is a great time to ask questions. The first session is as much about you evaluating the counselor’s style as it is about them getting to know you.
- No Pressure To Reveal Everything
It’s natural to feel like you need to get it all out in the first session, but that’s not necessary. Building trust and unpacking complex emotions takes time. A good counselor will guide the process and help you move at a pace that feels right for you.
Remind yourself that it’s acceptable to feel anxious or uncertain. The first session often includes a mix of relief, emotional release, and even awkwardness—all of which are completely normal.
- The Start Of A New Chapter
By the end of the session, you and your counselor will likely discuss next steps—whether that’s scheduling another session, developing a treatment plan, or outlining some things to reflect on between meetings.
Even if change doesn’t happen overnight, taking this first step means you’re actively choosing to care for your well-being and work toward a healthier future.
Final Thoughts
Your first behavioral health counseling session is an opportunity to begin a process of reflection, healing, and growth. In the beginning, you may feel unsure, but knowing what to expect can help you feel less stressed and more sure of yourself.
It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being open to the journey. And with each session, you’ll gain the tools, insight, and support needed to move forward.