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A straightforward first-session guide

What to Expect from Your First Therapy Session

You do not need a prepared speech. The first appointment is a calm conversation about what has brought you to therapy and what support may be useful.

€60Individual session
1:1Private support
Online& in person
MeathCounty-wide access
01

Before the appointment

John will confirm whether you are meeting in the Kilmainhamwood room or online and provide the practical information you need. If you are attending online, choose a private place and test your connection. If you are attending in person, the room is wheelchair accessible.

You may want to think about what prompted you to make contact, but there is no form of perfect preparation. Feeling nervous, uncertain or unsure where to begin is normal.

02

During the first session

John may ask what you would like help with, how the difficulty is affecting you and what you hope might be different. He will also explain how he works, confidentiality and the boundaries of the service. You can ask about qualifications, approach, fees or anything else that matters to you.

You remain in control of what you disclose. The first meeting is not a test, and you will not be expected to tell your entire life story.

03

Deciding whether the fit feels right

The quality of the therapeutic relationship matters. Notice whether you feel listened to, respected and able to ask questions. It can take time to feel fully comfortable, but you should not feel pressured or judged.

John will also consider whether his skills and service match what you need. If another form of support is more suitable, an honest conversation about that is part of responsible practice.

04

After the session

You may feel relieved, thoughtful, tired or uncertain after talking about something important. Give yourself a little space if possible. You and John can discuss a next appointment and how the work may continue. A session costs €60.

Clear, responsible information

This page explains Sunrise Wellness Therapy’s service and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from your GP, psychiatrist or other healthcare professional.

In-person appointments

A Calm, Private Therapy Room

Face-to-face sessions take place in Kilmainhamwood, Co. Meath. The room is warm, confidential and wheelchair accessible.

John O’Brien of Sunrise Wellness Therapy
About John O’Brien

Professional Training. Real Understanding.

John holds a BSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy, a Diploma in Sports Psychology and a Diploma in Social Care, and is a member of the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

After sustaining a spinal cord injury in a serious road traffic accident in his early twenties, John also brings lived understanding of trauma, loss, disability and adapting to profound change. He works with empathy, authenticity and respect for each person’s individual experience.

Common questions

Questions About What to Expect from Your First Therapy Session

What should I say in my first therapy session?

Start wherever you can. You might describe what led you to book, how you have been feeling or what you hope therapy could help with. John can guide the opening conversation.

Can I ask the therapist questions?

Yes. You can ask about John’s qualifications, person-centred approach, confidentiality, fees, online arrangements or anything that affects your decision.

Do I have to book more sessions?

The first appointment lets you consider the fit. You can discuss next steps with John; therapy should not rely on pressure.

Where does the first session happen?

Choose an in-person appointment in Kilmainhamwood, Co. Meath, or an online video session.

Need urgent help?

Sunrise Wellness Therapy is not an emergency service. If you or someone else is about to be harmed, phone 112 or 999 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Take the first step

You Don’t Have to Work It All Out Alone

Contact John to ask a question or arrange a private €60 session in Kilmainhamwood or online.

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