What happens in a counseling session?
After first meeting the client, what is the process that a counselor facilitates?
Counseling Fundamentals 
<p>Each counselor may have a different process, so I'm not the end all authority here. &nbsp;For myself, I review policies and confidentiality concerns with people first and answer any questions they have.&nbsp;</p><p>Then I'll let them know I'll be writing a lot in this session and I have an assessment form that I like to get completed, but I want to have a conversation and I'll ask questions as we go. &nbsp;My first question is usually, "How do you feel I can best help you today?" &nbsp;Some people are very at ease and tell me many details. &nbsp;Others are a bit more reserved and I have to demonstrate more curiosity. &nbsp;</p><p>Even people who have been very apprehensive are usually feeling very relaxed by the time the session is over. &nbsp;Usually, when we get close to end of session time, I'll summarize what I think are the biggest concerns from what I've heard and confirm whether or not the person wants to work on those things. &nbsp;I also try to give an exercise targetting my biggest concern for them to work on in between sessions. &nbsp;For instance, a relaxation method if they are very anxious. &nbsp;</p><p>Counselors are just humans as well, so it does take a bit of time to really get to know another person. &nbsp;I always tell people that are apprehensive to give the counselor 3 or 4 sessions to determine if they really connect with them. &nbsp;</p><p>I hope that helps,&nbsp;</p><p>Allison&nbsp;</p>