Taking the first step to see a psychologist or counsellor is an act of courage whether you’re navigating anxiety, stress, grief, relationship issues, or simply looking for support and clarity in your life.
At Insight Body and Mind in Aberfeldie, we understand that the idea of starting therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. That’s why we aim to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you feel safe, supported, and truly heard.
If you're based in Essendon or surrounding areas and considering your first psychology appointment, here’s what you can expect and how we can support you on your journey toward better mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Why People See a Psychologist

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some common concerns include:

Anxiety or panic attacks
Depression or low mood
Stress and burnout
Relationship or family challenges
Life transitions or grief
Trauma or past experiences
Low self-esteem or confidence
Feeling "stuck" or overwhelmed

You don’t need a crisis to see a psychologist. Therapy can also be a proactive way to better understand yourself, process emotions, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and behaviour.

What Happens in Your First Psychology Session?

1. A Warm Welcome and Confidential Space

When you arrive at our Aberfeldie clinic, you’ll be greeted by our friendly team and welcomed into a calming, private setting. Our goal is to help you feel as comfortable as possible.

Your psychologist will guide the session at your pace; there's no pressure to share more than you feel ready to.

2. Getting to Know You

The first session is mostly about getting to know your background, current concerns, and what has brought you to therapy. Your psychologist may ask about:

Your mental and physical health history
Major life events or stressors
Any previous therapy or treatments
Your personal goals or what you'd like to change

Think of this as an open conversation not a test or interview. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to share.

3. Goal Setting and Therapy Planning

After discussing your concerns, your psychologist may begin to outline a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This might include:

The type of therapy approach (e.g., CBT, ACT, mindfulness-based therapy)
How often sessions will occur
Short- and long-term goals
Skills or strategies you may explore in future sessions

You’re encouraged to ask questions, offer feedback, and collaborate in shaping the therapy process.

4. No Pressure to Solve Everything in One Session

The first session is just the beginning. You may feel lighter, emotional, or even a little unsure afterward all of these reactions are valid. Therapy is a journey, and healing takes time. The most important thing is showing up for yourself.

Do I need a referral?

You don’t need a referral to see a psychologist privately. However, if you’d like to access Medicare rebates under a Mental Health Care Plan, you’ll need a referral from your GP.

Is everything confidential?

Yes. Your psychologist is bound by strict confidentiality guidelines. The only exceptions involve risk of harm to yourself or others, or legal requirements, which will be explained clearly during your session.

How long are sessions?

Most appointments are around 50 minutes.

How often will I need to attend?

This varies based on your goals, needs, and the psychologist’s recommendations. Some clients attend weekly or fortnightly, while others come monthly or as needed.

Psychology & Counselling at Insight Body and Mind

Our psychologists and counselors offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach tailored to your unique needs. We’re proud to provide mental health support in a warm, private space — located conveniently in Aberfeldie, just minutes from Essendon, Moonee Ponds, and Strathmore.

We support clients across:

Anxiety & depression
Stress management & burnout
Grief and life transitions
Perinatal and postnatal mental health
Adolescent and teen mental health
Self-esteem & identity exploration
Relationship issues

Ready to Take the First Step?

Seeking support is not a weakness, it's a sign of strength. If you’re ready to explore therapy or simply want to learn more about how we can help, we’re here to listen