What to expect in your first counselling session with Emma Ramarge Counselling.

Starting therapy can bring a mixture of emotions, relief that you’ve decided to reach out, curiosity about what will happen, and sometimes a touch of nervousness too. That’s all perfectly natural. The first session isn’t about getting everything right or telling your whole story, it’s about beginning to build a sense of safety and understanding.

A Space to Arrive, Not Perform

When you come for your first session with me, there’s no pressure to know where to start. You don’t need to prepare a script or have clear answers. Many people begin by saying, “I’m not sure what to say.” That’s absolutely okay. Together, we’ll take things slowly and let the conversation unfold at your pace.

My role is to create a calm, grounded environment where you can begin to feel comfortable. Whether we’re meeting in person, online, or outdoors for walk-and-talk therapy, the focus is on helping your nervous system settle enough to feel safe and seen.

The Assessment Process

The first session is also an assessment, a chance for us both to explore whether we feel like a good fit to work together. I’ll ask gentle questions about what’s brought you to counselling, any previous support you’ve had, and what you’d like from therapy.

Sometimes there’s a lot to share, so the assessment may continue into a second session. This slower approach helps ensure you feel heard and that I fully understand your needs.

It’s Normal to Feel Unsure

You might leave the first session feeling lighter, emotional, thoughtful, or even unsure. That’s all part of the process. Therapy is less about instant answers and more about creating space for what’s been held in for a long time to begin to emerge safely.

As we continue, you’ll start to notice what it feels like to have somewhere you can show up exactly as you are, no expectations, no need to mask or manage.

Finding Your Own Pace

Every person’s journey is unique. You may

choose in-person sessions in my Chapmanslade practice, online sessions from your own space, or walk-and-talk sessions outdoors in local natural surroundings.

Wherever we meet, the aim is the same: to offer a space where your body and mind can begin to breathe again.