INITIAL CONSULTATION (What to Expect in Your First Counselling Session)
Your initial consultation at Insieme Counselling is a gentle, supportive first step designed to help you feel safe, understood, and fully informed before beginning your counselling journey.
Whether this is your first time seeking support or you're returning after a difficult period, this session creates space for clarity, comfort, and direction.
What Happens in the Initial Consultation
During your first counselling session, we explore:
what brings you to counselling
what challenges you’re facing
your hopes, goals, and expectations
your preferred pace and style of working together
any past experiences with therapy
questions you may have about the process
You are never asked to “go deep” before you’re ready.
The session is paced gently and collaboratively, and always respects your boundaries.
A Safe, Relaxed Conversation — Nothing Forced
Many people feel nervous before their first session.
Your initial consultation is simply a conversation where we get to know each other, discuss what support feels right, and begin to understand what life could look like moving forward.
There is no pressure to talk about anything you don’t feel ready to share.
How Long Is the Initial Consultation?
The first session is 30 minutes and is available online Australia-wide.
Parents are welcome to join the beginning of a session for an adolescent if needed.
Do You Offer Free Counselling? (Important Clarification)
I do not provide ongoing free counselling, but your initial consultation includes:
clear guidance on low-cost or free counselling options (school wellbeing team, community programs, youth mental health services, helplines)
help understanding which type of support suits you best
a personalised plan for next steps
a space to ask questions without any pressure to commit
Many people searching for “free counselling” simply need accessible advice on where to begin — and I am happy to guide you through all the available pathways.
Who Is the Initial Consultation For?
This session is suitable for:
adolescents and teenagers
adults
parents wanting support or guidance
people experiencing anxiety, stress, overwhelm, life transitions, or identity challenges
individuals who prefer a bilingual Italian–English approach
What We Decide Together in the First Session
Your initial consultation helps us:
understand your goals
choose the right counselling approach (PCT, CBT, emotion-focused, trauma-informed)
determine session frequency
make sure we are the right fit
create a gentle plan moving forward
How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation
There is nothing you need to prepare.
But some clients find it helpful to think about:
what feels difficult right now
what you hope might change
what support looked like in the past
any questions you want to ask
This helps you feel grounded and ready for our time together.
FAQ: Your Initial Counselling Consultation
What happens in the first counselling session?
A gentle conversation exploring your goals, challenges, and expectations. No pressure.
Is the initial consultation free?
No, but you receive guidance on available free or low-cost counselling pathways if helpful.
Can parents join the initial consultation for a teenager?
Yes — parents can join the beginning of the session before the teen continues privately.
What if I’m nervous or don’t know what to say?
Very normal. I will guide the session so you don’t feel lost or unsure.
Ready to Begin? Book Your Initial Consultation
If you're ready to take the first step, I’m here to help.
👉 Book your free initial consultation
or learn more about our Counselling Services.
