What to Expect at Your First Therapy Session | Empower Counseling, Poland OH

As someone who has personally experienced therapy, I know how intimidating it can feel to take that first step. For years, I brushed it aside, thinking “other people have it worse,” and invalidating my own experiences. Truth is, everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their life.

If you’re considering scheduling your first therapy session or initial counseling appointment, congratulations—you’re taking an important step toward your well-being!

At Empower Counseling in Poland, OH, we provide a safe, welcoming space where your voice matters and you are the expert in your own life. Here’s what you can expect when you pick up the phone (or text!) to schedule your first session.

When you call or text Empower Counseling, you’ll likely reach me, Caylee! No matter who you speak with, you’ll be greeted warmly and walked through the process of becoming a new therapy client.

We’ll collect your contact information and send you our new client paperwork through our HIPAA-compliant client portal. Once you’ve received it, we’ll help you schedule your first therapy session. You may be asked a few questions about your presenting concerns, availability, and preferences—this is completely normal and helps us match you with the therapist who’s the best fit for you.

Now that your appointment is scheduled—take a deep breath! You did it! You’re officially a client of Empower Counseling, and we’re thrilled to have you. Just make sure your paperwork is completed, and you’re ready to come to our offices for your first session.

We want your first visit to Empower Counseling to be easy and stress-free. We’re located at 89 N. Main St, Poland, OH 44514, inside the Strawn Wellness Center, a brown brick building down the road from the Poland Walgreens. You’ll find us right next to a Shell gas station and directly across the street from BodyWorks Massage Therapy.

There’s plenty of parking available, including handicapped-accessible spots.

Once you enter, there’s no receptionist—simply check in on the iPad to your right, which sends a text directly to your therapist letting them know you’ve arrived. Then, make yourself comfortable in the waiting area to your left.

Our space is designed to be warm and welcoming, so you can feel at ease as you begin your first therapy session.

When you meet your therapist at Empower Counseling, they’ll greet you with a smile in the waiting room and introduce themselves. You’ll be offered a snack or drink from our fully stocked snack-bar before they welcome you into their office. They’ll also give you a quick tour of our space so you feel comfortable and oriented.

During your visit, you may meet me, our other clinicians, and even our full-time dietitian, Darby. You’ll see our cozy, thoughtfully designed areas—including the Babe Cave, where we hold our social support groups, group therapy, and group nutrition sessions. Every part of our office is designed to feel safe, welcoming, and supportive, so you can relax, explore, and feel confident as you begin your first therapy session.

Your first therapy session is all about understanding you. Your therapist will ask about your personal history, current challenges, and emotional or mental health goals. This is also the perfect time to share your preferences—if something doesn’t feel right, speak up! You always have the right to request a new clinician if needed. At Empower, we focus on a collaborative, client-centered approach to ensure you feel safe, heard, and supported throughout your initial counseling session.

For clinical counseling, your first session often includes a DSM diagnostic assessment, a standard tool to evaluate your mental health needs. This assessment helps your therapist understand your unique experiences, identify patterns, and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals.

At Empower Counseling, we use the DSM assessment as a starting point, not a label. It allows your therapist to design a plan that addresses your specific needs, whether that includes individual counseling, couples counseling, support groups, or nutrition counseling. The assessment also helps us determine if medication management or a referral to a qualified provider would benefit your care. Our approach is always client-centered, collaborative, and empowering, so you feel understood and supported from day one.

Completing this assessment also helps your therapist track your progress over time and adjust your treatment plan as needed—ensuring that your therapy is effective, responsive, and aligned with your personal goals.

Once your therapist has a clear understanding of your needs, history, and goals, you’ll work together to set personalized therapy objectives. At Empower Counseling, we believe therapy is a collaborative process—you are the expert in your own life, and we are here to guide, support, and cheer you on as you reach your goals.

Your therapist will outline next steps, which may include follow-up counseling sessions, couples therapy, support groups, or nutrition counseling. If medication management could benefit your care, your therapist will provide referrals to trusted providers. This plan is tailored to you, ensuring that every session is purposeful, actionable, and aligned with your personal journey toward emotional well-being.

At Empower, we want you to leave your first session feeling heard, understood, and empowered, with a clear roadmap for your next steps.

After your first session, your therapy journey continues with follow-up sessions tailored to your personalized treatment plan. At Empower Counseling, we focus on consistent progress, collaborative care, and holistic support. Whether you’re attending individual counseling, couples sessions, support groups, or nutrition counseling, each session is designed to help you feel empowered and supported every step of the way.

Our therapists regularly check in on your goals and adjust your plan as needed, ensuring your care evolves with you. You’ll continue to have a safe, welcoming space to explore challenges, celebrate growth, and develop the skills and strategies that promote long-term emotional well-being.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but at Empower, our goal is to make the process approachable, personalized, and empowering—so you can confidently take the next steps toward your mental health and wellness.