What to Expect During Your First Counseling Session
Preparing for Your First Visit
Taking the first step toward counseling can be both daunting and exciting. At Davis-Smith Mental Health, we strive to make your initial visit as welcoming and informative as possible. Here’s what you can expect when you come in for your first appointment.
Reviewed by Jessica Davis, LCPC, Practice Owner · Updated October 2026
Before Your First Session
Important Steps to Take: Pre-session Steps
Before your first counseling session, there are a few important steps to ensure everything runs smoothly:
01
Reach Out to Schedule
Contact us to schedule your initial appointment.
02
Read the Welcome Letter
You will receive a welcome letter via email with important information about your upcoming session.
03
Complete Opening Paperwork
Fill out the required intake forms at least 48 hours before your appointment. This can be done on any tablet, smartphone, or computer.
04
Insurance Verification
For clients using insurance, we accept the contracted rate and will check benefits prior to confirming your appointment as a courtesy.
The Initial Steps
Entering the Office
When you arrive at our counseling office, you will be greeted in a comfortable and welcoming waiting room. There is an iPad available for you to check in, which will notify your therapist that you have arrived. Feel free to relax with a drink or snack while you wait for your appointment to begin.
The First Meeting
Starting Your Session
One of our therapists will greet you in the waiting room and escort you to a private office where we will make every effort to ensure you feel comfortable and at ease. During this initial meeting, we will discuss confidentiality, outline what today’s session will involve, and answer any questions you may have.
Understanding Your Needs
Discussing Your Goals
The primary goal of your first session is to understand why you are seeking counseling and to get a comprehensive view of who you are. Our therapist will ask questions to gather information about your background, current situation, and what you hope to achieve through counseling. This conversation helps us tailor our approach to best support you.
“Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.”
– Mandy Hale
Planning Ahead
Possible Next Steps
At the end of your session, we will discuss the best course of action moving forward. Possible next steps may include:
Setting Weekly Counseling Appointments
Regular weekly sessions are recommended to address ongoing concerns and make steady progress toward your goals. This consistent schedule helps build a strong therapeutic relationship and provides continuous support. Weekly appointments allow for timely intervention and adjustment of strategies to meet your goals.
Setting Bi-Weekly Counseling Appointments
We recommend at least three weekly appointments to build rapport before transitioning to bi-weekly sessions. Bi-weekly appointments are typically for maintenance clients to sustain progress. This approach ensures continued support while allowing flexibility in your schedule.
Not Setting Any Appointments
In some cases, it may be determined that counseling is not necessary at this time, or our services may not align with your specific needs. If you wish to see a different clinician within our practice, please contact our admin team. We can also provide referrals to external providers if needed.
Addressing Safety Concerns
If there are concerns about your safety, we will discuss the best actions to ensure everyone’s well-being. This might include more frequent sessions or a referral to an emergency room for assessment. We will work with you to create a safety plan that prioritizes your well-being.
Get Ready for Your First Session
We are here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need further information before your first visit, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can talk freely and know you are heard. Knowing the process ahead of time can help you prepare, and you and your therapist will work together to decide what feels right for you. Most people find they feel better once that first session is behind them.
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What People Are Saying About Us
5.0 Based on 5 Google reviews
“Davis-Smith Mental Health truly cares about their clients. The therapists are compassionate, skilled, and genuinely committed to helping you grow and heal. It’s clear that Jessica has built a team that shares her values and dedication. Highly recommend to anyone looking for meaningful support and real results.”
Kasia Budyn · Posted on Google
“Jessica provides a safe and welcoming environment for all the teens she sees. She tailors treatment to each teen and is incredibly patient and open to their needs. I have seen first hand the work she does and the connection she has with kids. I cannot recommend her enough as someone who will care for your teen and your family!”
Google User · Posted on Google
“Davis-Smith Mental Health is a trusted resource for providing compassionate, high-quality therapy for teens and emerging adults. I know confidently that clients are supported with empathy, professionalism, and respect. Jessica leads her team with integrity and intention. She clearly prioritizes the well-being of her staff, which allows them to show up fully for the clients they serve. Their commitment to the healing journey is evident in every interaction. I’m grateful to have them as a referral partner and deeply value their work in the mental health community.”
Sherri Wick · Posted on Google
“Jessica is a dedicated therapist and absolutely loves working with teens. You are able to feel the love from the moment you walk through the door. She and her staff will provide a safe and private environment for that one on one attention you deserve.”
Melanie K. Hall · Posted on Google
“Jessica and her team are so passionate and helpful! I would recommend this practice to anyone looking!”
Biljana Krzywinski · Posted on Google
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You don’t have to figure this out alone
If something told you to keep reading this far, trust that feeling. Whether it’s for yourself, your teen, or your young adult, the hardest part is deciding to start. We are here when you are ready.
there is courage in change ♥
- Anxiety counseling for children, teens and adults
- Rated 5.0 on Google
- In-network with Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare and UMR
- Telehealth for clients in Illinois
- In-person in New Lenox
- EMDR therapy for anxiety and trauma
- We truly care about every client
- There is courage in change