August 20 • Written by: Jennifer Sierra, LMHC
That familiar knot in your stomach, the racing thoughts about what you’ll say, the worry about whether you’re “ready” enough for therapy. If any of this sounds familiar, take a deep breath and know that you’re not alone.
As an Anxiety Therapist providing anxiety therapy in Orlando residents trust, I see how taking that first step into therapy can feel overwhelming. Most people that start therapy has felt some version of what you’re experiencing. The anxiety you’re feeling about starting therapy means you’re about to take one of the most courageous steps you can take for yourself.
Being prepared and knowing what to expect can help ease your nerves and set you up for a meaningful first session.
How to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session in Orlando
Take some quiet time to explore what brought you to this decision. Maybe it’s anxiety that’s affecting your work performance, perfectionism that’s leaving you exhausted, or a major life transition that feels overwhelming.
Consider jotting down significant events or patterns you’ve noticed lately. This isn’t about creating a comprehensive life history, but rather giving yourself a gentle way to organize your thoughts before meeting with your therapist. Maybe you’ve noticed your anxiety spiking during certain situations, or perhaps there are patterns in your relationships that you’d like to understand better.
If you’re planning to do online therapy sessions, test your internet connection and camera ahead of time. Choose a private space where you won’t be interrupted, and feel free to make your favorite cup of tea or find a cozy spot at home.
At Holistic Mental Health Counseling, we understand that the first visit can sometimes be the hardest first step. We want you to feel completely comfortable for your first session. So grab your pets and your favorite blanket. Whatever you need to feel safe and settled is encouraged.
What to Expect During Your First Therapy Session
Sharing personal details with someone new feels vulnerable, so creating a sense of safety is always our first priority. The first several sessions focus on getting to know each other—discussing the therapy process, your therapist’s approach, confidentiality guidelines, and any immediate concerns you might have.
This isn’t an interrogation, I promise. Your therapist will ask questions to better understand your background, current challenges, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. Think of it as collaborative storytelling where you’re the expert on your own experience, and your therapist is there to listen and help you make sense of things.
Together, you’ll begin to identify what success looks like for you. Maybe it’s managing anxiety during work presentations, developing healthier boundaries in relationships, or simply feeling less overwhelmed by daily life. These goals can evolve as you progress through therapy—they’re not set in stone.
Therapy is fundamentally about relationship, and that healing connection starts from the very first session.
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What If I Cry During My First Session?
Tears are always welcome. Your therapy space is one of the few places where all emotions are honored. Many clients cry during their first session. You’re joining a community of brave individuals who have decided to face their struggles with professional support. There’s no shame in this—only courage. Crying often signals you’re touching something real and important. Whether from relief, fear, sadness, or hope – all of it belongs in your healing space.
Managing First Therapy Session Anxiety
Anxiety before therapy is like feeling nervous before any important first meeting. It makes complete sense because you’re about to share parts of yourself with someone new. Talk to a trusted friend or loved one about their therapy experience, as hearing from someone who has been through the process can be incredibly reassuring.
Remember that you’ve navigated challenges before, and the very fact that you’re seeking therapy shows your strength and commitment to growth. You’re not broken, you’re someone who recognizes the value of professional support.
Your Orlando therapist is specifically trained to work with anxiety, including anxiety about being in therapy itself. It is often explored together during those initial sessions. You don’t have to manage these feelings alone anymore.
What Happens After Your First Session
After your first session, you might experience a mix of emotions including relief, vulnerability, hope, or even temporary anxiety. All of these responses are completely normal parts of beginning this healing journey. Take some time after your session to check in with yourself about how you’re feeling, what surprised you, and what felt comfortable or uncomfortable.
This self-reflection helps you make the most of your therapeutic work and gives you material to discuss in future sessions. Therapy is a process, not a quick fix, so be patient with yourself as you begin this journey. Some sessions might feel more impactful than others, and that’s perfectly normal.
Healing doesn’t follow a straight line and has ups and downs, breakthroughs and plateaus. Trust that even the sessions that feel less dramatic are often doing important work beneath the surface.
Regular attendance helps build momentum in your therapeutic work. Even when you don’t feel like going, which happens to everyone, showing up consistently often leads to the most significant breakthroughs. If something doesn’t feel right or if you have concerns about your progress, bring it up with your therapist. Good therapy includes honest conversation about the therapeutic relationship itself, and your feedback helps your therapist serve you better.
Why Orlando Residents Choose Online Therapy for Anxiety
As an Anxiety therapist in Orlando offering virtual sessions, I’ve witnessed firsthand how online therapy can actually reduce anxiety for many clients, especially those taking their first brave steps into therapy. Online therapy allows you to receive support from the safety and privacy of your own home, and this familiar environment can help you feel more grounded and less anxious, especially during those vulnerable first few sessions.
For busy professionals juggling demanding schedules, online therapy eliminates commute time, parking stress, and the anxiety of rushing across Orlando traffic to make your appointment.
Many clients appreciate the additional privacy that comes with online sessions since you don’t have to worry about running into someone you know in a waiting room. This can be especially important for Orlando professionals who value confidentiality. Online therapy also opens doors to finding the right therapeutic fit, which means you can connect with a therapist who truly understands your specific concerns with anxiety, perfectionism, or life transitions.
At Holistic Mental Health counseling we provide services to Central Florida residents and throughout the state of Florida.
Your Mental Health Journey Starts Now
Starting therapy is an act of self-compassion—you’re choosing to invest in your well-being. At Holistic Mental Health Counseling, we specialize in anxiety and difficult life transitions using a holistic approach that addresses your whole person, not just symptoms.
Whether you’re managing work anxiety, navigating major life changes, or feeling overwhelmed, reaching out shows wisdom and strength. We’re here to meet you with warmth, understanding, and professional guidance tailored to your unique needs.
Ready to Start Anxiety Therapy?
I’d love to support you to gain clarity and find calm in your body. Reach out to Holistic Mental Health Counseling in Orlando today to schedule a consultation. Your future self – the one who feels peaceful, confident, and free – is waiting for you to begin.
Schedule Your Free 15 Minute Anxiety Therapy Consultation Today
Not Quite Ready for Anxiety Therapy?
At Holistic Mental Health Counseling, we get it—anxiety is exhausting, and taking that first step for help can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone. While navigating this journey, we invite you to explore the blogs below.
Therapy Orlando Anxiety Resources
- Anxiety Therapy Orlando: 7 Natural Anxiety Relief Tips from an expert Holistic Therapist
- 3 Holistic Approaches to Calm Perfectionist Anxiety This Summer
- Stress & Anxiety Therapy Orlando: Beyond Normal Stress – When to Seek Help
- Anxiety Therapy Orlando: Unmasking Anxiety: Exploring the Root Causes
Anxiety Therapist Jennifer Sierra, Licensed Mental Health Therapist
Jennifer Sierra is an Orlando therapist who specializes in trauma-informed counseling and helping clients navigate anxiety and life transitions. She is a Certified Integrative Mental Health Professional with 20 years of experience; Jennifer thoughtfully balances traditional talk therapy with holistic interventions to help clients find calm within and strengthen relationships. Jennifer maintains a heart for community involvement and Orlando mental health awareness through volunteer work, workshops, and speaking engagements.
Other Therapy Services offered at Holistic Mental Health Counseling in Orlando
We provide evidence-based therapy that honors your strengths while addressing the patterns that no longer serve you. Our services include anxiety therapy, depression therapy, holistic mental health therapy, and life transitions therapy. We work with individuals ready to create lasting change in their mental health and well-being.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared is based on our understanding and interpretation of various mental health topics. It is important to recognize the complexity of mental health issues, and the advice provided here may not address the specific needs of every reader. The content on this blog should not be considered a substitute for professional advice from a qualified mental health professional. Always seek the advice of a licensed therapist or other qualified mental health provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your mental health or well-being.
