What is a Therapy intake?

If you are going to therapy for the first time, you might be wondering what that initial session is going to be like.

If you are a new therapist, you might also be wondering what that initial session is going to look like.

Luckily, although every initial session is not exactly the same, they are usually similar. In my new video about the initial session a.k.a the intake session, I discuss each section that is reviewed so you have an idea of what to expect. Sometimes it helps people to know the topics that will be brought up so it doesn’t feel too overwhelming.

Typically you will ask (if you are the therapist) or be asked (if you are the client) about the following topics:

Presenting Problem

Risk Assessment

Identification

History of Present Problem

Psychiatric History

Trauma History

Family Psychiatric History

Medical Conditions & History

Current Medications

Substance Use

Social History

Spiritual/Cultural Factors

Developmental History

Educational/Vocational History

Legal History

Strengths and Needs

Now remember, every therapist and agency can operate slightly different so there is no guarantee you will be asked each one of these questions. Also remember, it is your choice what you want to share in session. Usually people need time to build rapport.

If you would like a more in-depth explanation to what questions are asked and why we ask these questions, you can watch my YouTube video below.