What Happens in a Therapy Session? 

A therapy session lasts 45 to 60 minutes. You meet a licensed therapist in a confidential setting. You check in on your week. You discuss challenges. The therapist listens and guides you with tools like CBT. You end with homework and a plan. This process helps you process emotions, build skills, and reach goals.

What Happens Before Your First Session?

You fill out intake forms. You list your concerns like anxiety or trauma. You note goals for better well-being. Call ahead if you want. Ask about their CBT expertise. This matches your needs to their approach. You arrive prepared. You reduce first-session nerves.

Step 1: Check-In and Review (5-10 Minutes)

You sit down. The therapist asks about your week. You share recent events or feelings. You report on last homework. They listen without interrupting. They note patterns. This sets the focus. You feel heard right away.

Step 2: Exploration and Processing (20-30 Minutes)

You describe your main issue. The therapist asks questions. You explore thoughts and emotions. They validate your feelings. Crying or anger happens. They help you regulate it. They use CBT to challenge unhelpful thoughts. You practice reframing anxiety as manageable. This builds insight.

Step 3: Tools and Insights (10-15 Minutes)

The therapist teaches a skill. You learn breathing for stress or journaling for trauma. They explain why it works. CBT targets behaviors that maintain depression. You role-play a tough conversation. You gain tools for daily use.

Step 4: Wrap-Up and Next Steps (5 Minutes)

You summarize key points. The therapist assigns homework. Practice the new skill three times this week. You schedule the next session. You leave with a clear plan.

What Makes the First Session Different?

Your first session assesses your background. You share history and current problems. The therapist builds rapport. You set initial goals. Deep processing waits. Expect paperwork and questions. No tools yet. This intake lasts the full time. You decide if they fit.

Therapy Variations and Myths

Therapy adapts to your needs. CBT focuses on thoughts and actions. You track behaviors in a worksheet. Talk therapy lets emotions flow. Trauma therapy uses grounding to stay present.

You do not dig into childhood unless it helps now. You control the topics. High-achievers use therapy for career shifts or stress. You do not need to feel “sick.” Video sessions work if you prefer convenience.

Managing Emotions and Expectations

You feel vulnerable. That’s normal. The therapist guides you through it. Confidentiality protects you. They share only if you pose immediate danger to yourself or others. Homework reinforces skills. Skip it if you need. Sessions vary by therapist. Find one who matches your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a session last?  

45 to 55 minutes. Some run 60.

Is therapy confidential?  

Yes. Exceptions cover safety risks only.

Will I get homework? 

Often. Tasks like journaling build skills.

Do I talk about childhood?  

Only if relevant to now. You choose.

What if I cry or get angry?

Normal. The therapist helps you process it.

How many sessions do I need?

One to many. Resolve quick issues fast. Ongoing support fits check-ins.

Is online therapy effective? 

Yes. Video matches in-person for most.

How do I choose a therapist? 

Check specialties. Read reviews. Ask about CBT for anxiety.

Conclusion

You now understand every step of a therapy session, from check-in to homework. This knowledge removes the mystery and lets you step in confidently. At Psychological Associates of Melbourne, our CBT-focused approach tailors this process to your anxiety, depression, or trauma needs in a confidential space. Book your first session today to start building those coping tools.