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What happens at your first counseling appointment?
Most people are nervous the first time. That is normal, and it is not something you have to hide when you walk in.
Is the first appointment mostly a conversation?
The first hour is not a test, an interrogation, or a diagnosis handed to you at the door. Lori listens first. She wants to know you as a person, not as a problem to be sorted.
You will talk about what is happening right now, what has already been tried, what may be keeping you stuck, and what you would like to be different. Somewhere in that conversation, the two of you start naming small, practical steps.
There is paperwork, as there is with any licensed provider, and Lori will explain confidentiality and its legal limits so you know what to expect before you share anything.
What do you not have to prepare?
You do not need a tidy summary, a timeline, or the right words. Plenty of women arrive able to say only that they feel overwhelmed, or tired in a way sleep does not fix, or that something has been off for a while. That is enough to begin.
If it helps to jot down a few things beforehand so you do not forget them, do that. If it does not help, skip it.
Common questions about the first appointment
How long is the first counseling session?
The first session is typically one hour, the same as the sessions that follow it. You will not be asked to tell your whole life story in that hour.
Do I need to know what is wrong before I come in?
No. Many people arrive able to say only that something feels off. Naming it more clearly is part of the work, not a requirement for starting.
Will I have to talk about things I am not ready to talk about?
No. You decide the pace. Lori listens first and follows your lead rather than working through a script.
For cost, insurance and scheduling, see frequently asked questions or Insurance & Practical Information. You can meet in the Waterloo office near Cedar Falls or online anywhere in Iowa.
Appointments are arranged by phone or email, so a person helps you find the right starting point. Office hours are Monday to Thursday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
Written by Lori Rasmussen, LISW, a Licensed Independent Social Worker licensed in the State of Iowa and a Certified Spiritual Director. Lori counsels women and female students in Waterloo, Iowa and online across Iowa. Articles here are meant to help you understand what you may be experiencing; they are not a diagnosis and they do not take the place of care from a professional who knows your story.
Reaching out can be the first step.
You don't need to know exactly what to say, or have anything figured out, before you contact Lori.
Or email rasmussencounselingandsd@gmail.com