Facing the fear, finding your rhythm, and embracing the power of simply showing up.
Dear New Therapist,
Welcome.
You’ve made it through years of study, supervision, and likely countless hours of questioning whether you’re REALLY cut out for this work. And now, here you are, about to sit across from a real, live client, with real struggles, expecting real help.
Let’s pause for a moment and just take that in.
It’s okay if your stomach flips. It’s normal to question if you’re ready. The truth is, YOU ARE. You don’t have to be perfect to be powerfully helpful. You just have to be present.
The Fear is Normal. But It’s Not a Stop Sign
Many new therapists secretly think:
– What if I say the wrong thing?
– What if I freeze up?
– What if they find out I don’t know what I’m doing?
Here’s the secret no one tells you loudly enough, even seasoned therapists feel this way sometimes. The “imposter” voice thrives in silence and comparison. But you’re not alone, and you’re not inadequate.
Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign you’re failing, it’s a sign you care deeply.
Tips to Ground Yourself in Your First Sessions
1. Start with connection, not perfection.
The therapeutic relationship is THEE most powerful factor in client progress. Your warmth, presence, and curiosity matter more than delivering a flawless intervention. Smile, breathe, and ask, “What brings you in today?” That’s enough to start.
2. Prepare a simple structure.
Go in with a loose plan:
– Greet and orient the client
– Explain confidentiality
– Invite them to share their goals
– Reflect and validate what you hear
– Summarize and plan next steps
Structure brings safety for both of you, but be ready to flow with the client.
3. Let silence be a tool, not a threat.
It’s okay if there’s a pause. Give the client space to think and feel. Silence can often say more than words ever will.
4. Ask for supervision, not permission.
You’re not supposed to know everything. Supervision isn’t about proving yourself, it’s about developing yourself. Use it to reflect, grow, and get support.
5. Remember: your job isn’t to “fix” people.
Your job is to hold space, explore gently, and offer insight and support. Healing is a journey your client leads, you’re just a guide on the path.
Encouragement: You Belong Here
Dear therapist,
You are showing up in a world that desperately needs more compassion, more curiosity, and more care. You’re doing brave work. You ARE a therapist, not “trying to be,” not “almost,” but already.
Every great therapist was once a new therapist.
They stumbled. They forgot what to say. They cried in the car.
And they kept going.
So will you!
Final Thoughts
You’re allowed to be new and still incredibly valuable.
You’re allowed to feel unsure and still be impactful.
You’re allowed to grow, because growth is the heart of this work.
Keep learning. Keep showing up. And never underestimate the power of your presence.
You’ve got this. 💛
And if no one’s told you lately: You’re doing better than you think!