What does a counsellor do? Your first session explained

Written by Louis Chalouhi, Counsellor (Master’s in Counselling), ACA Level 2 and PACFA member.
Published 4 November 2026 · Updated 8 November 2026 · 4 min read

What is counselling?

Counselling is a talking therapy.

Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and you don't have to navigate every challenge alone.

Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief, trauma or simply feeling stuck, counselling provides a supportive space where your experiences matter and your concerns are taken seriously.

As a qualified counsellor, my role is to listen with empathy, help you understand your thoughts, emotions and behaviours, recognise your strengths and develop practical strategies for meaningful change.

I'm here to support you, never to judge you or tell you how to live your life.

What does a counsellor do?

• Listens without judgementYou get time and space to say what's on your mind, at your own pace.
• Helps you see patternsTogether we notice the thoughts, feelings and habits that keep you stuck, and where they came from.
• Teaches practical skillsThat might be CBT tools for anxious thoughts, ACT skills for living by your values, or DBT skills for strong emotions.
• Supports change between sessionsSmall, realistic steps you try during the week, then review together.
• Refers on when it helpsIf a GP or psychiatrist would add something, I'll talk it through with you.

What happens during your first session?

Before we meet, we have a free 15-minute call, and I send you the intake form to complete before your first session.

Your first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, build trust and develop a shared understanding of your needs.

Together, we will:

1. Explore your concernsDiscuss what has brought you to counselling, the challenges you're experiencing and how they're affecting your everyday life.
2. Complete an initial psychological assessmentExplore your emotional wellbeing, relevant personal history, current circumstances, strengths and any factors contributing to your difficulties. This helps guide an appropriate therapeutic approach.
3. Discuss your expectationsUnderstand what you hope to gain from counselling, answer your questions and discuss what you can reasonably expect from the therapeutic process.
4. Identify your goalsExplore what you would like to change, improve or better understand, whether that's managing emotions, strengthening relationships, building confidence or improving your wellbeing.
5. Develop a personalised counselling planWork collaboratively to establish realistic goals, identify suitable therapeutic approaches and agree on a plan that reflects your individual needs, priorities and circumstances.
6. Discuss the next stepsConsider the frequency of sessions, therapeutic strategies and how we'll review your progress together.

Many people feel nervous before the first session, and that's normal.

You set the pace, and you can ask questions at any point.

A personalised approach, centred around you

No two people experience life's challenges in the same way, which is why counselling should never be a one-size-fits-all approach.

I draw on evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, ACT, Compassion-Focused Therapy and trauma-informed approaches, integrating techniques that best support your individual goals.

Throughout our work together, we'll regularly review your progress, discuss what's helping and adjust your counselling plan as your needs evolve.

You remain an active partner in your counselling journey, with your choices, values and expectations guiding the process.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, within a few limits set by law and by professional codes.

What you share stays between us, and your notes are stored securely.

The exceptions are when someone's life or safety is in serious danger, when a child may be harmed, or when a court orders records.

I explain these at the start, so you know exactly where you stand.

How many sessions will I need?

It depends on what you bring and what you'd like to change.

Some people come for a few sessions to work through 1 decision or a stressful patch.

Others come for several months to work on long-standing patterns.

We review progress together, and you're free to pause or stop whenever you choose.

In person or online

Sessions run the same way in the room or on screen.

I see clients in Bella Vista, Liverpool and the Inner West, and online by Zoom or phone across Australia.

Every conversation starts with a free 15-minute call, so you can ask your questions before you book.

Taking the first step

You don't need to be in crisis, have all the answers or know exactly what to say.

Counselling is about creating a space where you can explore your experiences, develop greater self-awareness and discover new ways of moving forward.

My commitment is to provide compassionate, professional and practical support, helping you feel understood, empowered and confident in taking the next steps towards positive change.

You don't have to face everything alone.

Sometimes, a meaningful conversation is where positive change begins.

Let's start with a conversation. Book your free 15-minute consultation to explore how counselling can support you, or read more about individual counselling.

Common questions

Sources

1. healthdirect, Counsellors and counselling (reviewed December 2025)
2. Australian Counselling Association
3. Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia

This guide is general information, written to help you understand your options. It isn’t a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from your GP or treating team.

Support at any hour

Mind Therapy Room offers booked appointments, so for urgent support please use one of these services.

• Emergency000
• Lifeline, 24 hours, 7 days13 11 14
• Beyond Blue1300 22 4636

See more support services and helpful resources.