It’s completely normal to feel nervous before seeing a psychologist especially if it’s your first time.
You might be wondering what to expect, what to say, or whether your concerns are “serious enough.” You might even feel uncertain about opening up to someone new. These feelings are not only common, but they're also a sign that you care about your wellbeing and are taking a courageous first step.
At Insight Body and Mind in Aberfeldie, we understand that reaching out for help can feel daunting. Our team of psychologists Provisional, Generalist, and Clinical are here to make the experience as comfortable, supportive, and empowering as possible.
Here’s what you should know before your first appointment.

1. Feeling Nervous Is Completely Normal

Even the most self-assured people can feel a bit uneasy before their first psychology session. Opening up about your thoughts, emotions, or life experiences can feel vulnerable but that’s where healing begins.

Remember, your psychologist’s role is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can talk openly and at your own pace. You don’t have to have everything figured out or know exactly where to start, that's what the session is for.

2. Your First Session Is About Getting to Know You

Think of your first appointment as a gentle introduction, not an interrogation.

Your psychologist will:

Ask about what’s brought you in and what you’d like to achieve
Get to know your background and current challenges
Discuss how therapy works and answer any questions you have
Begin developing a plan together to support your goals

There’s no pressure to share everything straight away. Many clients take a few sessions to feel completely comfortable and that’s perfectly okay.

3. You Don’t Need to Be in Crisis to See a Psychologist

A common misconception is that psychology is only for people in crisis. In reality, therapy can benefit anyone whether you’re managing daily stress, navigating change, or simply wanting to grow and understand yourself better.

Psychologists help with a wide range of concerns, including:

Anxiety, stress, or overthinking
Low mood or lack of motivation
Sleep or concentration issues
Life transitions (work, relationships, parenthood, etc.)
Self-esteem and confidence
Personal development and wellbeing

At Insight Body and Mind, we see therapy as a proactive investment in your emotional health much like how you might visit a physiotherapist or osteopath for your body.

4. It’s Okay if You Don’t Know What to Say

Many people worry they’ll “run out of things to talk about” or “say the wrong thing.” But the beauty of therapy is that there’s no right or wrong way to begin.

Your psychologist is skilled in guiding the conversation, helping you explore thoughts and emotions safely, even if you’re not sure how to put them into words. Sometimes, simply saying “I don’t know where to start” can be the perfect place to begin.

5. Everything You Share Is Confidential

Psychologists are bound by strict confidentiality and ethical standards. What you discuss in your sessions stays private, with very limited exceptions (such as safety concerns).

This confidentiality creates a secure environment for honest, open conversations allowing you to process emotions and experiences without fear of judgment.

6. Building the Right Connection Matters

Therapy works best when you feel comfortable with your psychologist. Every practitioner has their own style and approach, so it’s okay to take time to find the right fit for you.

At Insight Body and Mind, we have a diverse team of psychologists with varied experience, special interests, and therapeutic styles so you can find someone who truly understands your needs.

7. We’re Here to Make It Easy

We know that reaching out for support can feel like a big step. That’s why our team at Insight Body and Mind is committed to making the process as welcoming and seamless as possible.

When you book your first appointment, our friendly admin team can:
Explain how Mental Health Care Plans and Medicare rebates work
Match you with the psychologist best suited to your goals
Help you feel informed and comfortable before your first visit

Our Aberfeldie studio, serving the Essendon community, is designed to be a calm, nurturing environment, a place where you can feel at ease from the moment you arrive.

Taking the First Step

If you’re feeling nervous about starting therapy, know that you’re not alone and that first step often leads to powerful change.

Reaching out for support shows strength, self-awareness, and courage. And once you begin, you may find that therapy becomes one of the most rewarding parts of your wellbeing journey.