Reaching out for help is an incredibly brave decision. If you’re considering women’s therapy in NYC for the first time, here are some helpful ways to prepare for your first appointment.

Before your women’s therapy appointment:

Consider any logistics that will help make the appointment less stressful. If you’re meeting virtually from home, make sure you have a comfortable place to speak from. Live with roommates or a partner? See if you can let them know in advance about your appointment to ensure privacy. Make sure you’re alone in a room where you can speak freely without anybody listening to you. I often recommend using headphones and turning off notifications before sessions. And if needed, consider investing in a sound machine for added privacy.

Think about your goals and hopes for therapy. Take time before the first session to reflect on your goals and what you hope to gain from therapy. You don’t have to articulate or determine what your goals are perfectly, but it can be helpful to think about what you’d like to be different in your life. Additionally, consider what’s felt hard for you lately or what if any changes you’d like to make. And if you’re unsure of your goals, that’s okay too! Your therapist will help support you through meaningful self-exploration.

During your appointment:

Be yourself! As this is the first time meeting your therapist, it’s natural to feel a bit nervous or apprehensive. A sense of trust and rapport are built over time. It’s completely natural to share at your own pace. Your therapist’s job is to create a warm, safe, and nonjudgemental environment where you feel truly supported and free to share. It’s okay to say that you don’t want to talk about a topic at any point during therapy. Remember, this is your dedicated time and space to explore what’s most important to you.

Feel free to ask questions. Your women’s therapist will likely discuss how she works or review housekeeping and general topics like her cancellation policy. If you’re confused or uncertain about something, be sure to ask clarifying questions. It’s important you have clear expectations moving forward.

After your appointment:

Reflect on what you liked and didn’t like about the appointment. Research shows that the most important predictor of successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship itself. Ask yourself if you felt seen and understood by this person? Did you feel this therapist was empathetic and non-judgmental? Did she instill in you a sense of hope? The bond and connection you form with your therapist is essential to growth, healing, and change. A good therapeutic alliance establishes trust, encourages collaboration, and reinforces realistic expectations that enable clients to achieve their therapy goals. Ultimately, the therapeutic relationship provides the foundation for successful therapy. You are more likely to follow through with treatment recommendations, open up about difficult topics, and develop greater insight when you truly trust your therapist and feel unconditionally supported by her.

Get started with therapy for women in NYC, NY today!

Taking the first step towards therapy is a courageous and empowering decision. At Liz Yarock Psychotherapy, I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to start your journey towards healing and self-discovery, follow the steps below to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore your goals, overcome challenges, and cultivate the life you desire. Take the next step in your path to wellness with a compassionate and dedicated women’s therapist in NYC.

1. Schedule a free consultation with me here.
2. Learn more about women’s therapy and its benefits through my blogs.
3. Discover how therapy for women can empower you!

Other Services I Offer Online and Anywhere in New York

At Liz Yarock Psychotherapy, I provide a comprehensive range of therapy services designed to support women’s well-being. From anxiety counseling and life transitions therapy to relationship therapy, each service is tailored to your unique needs using evidence-based techniques and an integrative approach. I also specialize in working with highly sensitive persons, helping them navigate the world with greater resilience and ease. Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face these challenges alone. I’m here to help you feel more empowered and confident in all aspects of your life.