Your First Therapy Session: What to Expect at Journey Wellness Centre

Your First Therapy Session: What to Expect at Journey Wellness Centre

Your journey to mental wellness in the UAE Dubai starts with understanding, support, and compassion.

Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming — especially when you're unsure what to expect. At Journey Wellness Centre, we understand how much courage it takes to reach out for support. That’s why our caring team is here to walk with you through every stage of your healing process.

Whether you’re struggling with stress, navigating a major life change, or simply seeking clarity, this guide will help you understand what your first therapy session will look like — so you can feel confident, prepared, and hopeful.

Why People Feel Nervous About Therapy

It’s natural to feel hesitant before starting therapy. Many first-time clients share common concerns such as:

• “What if I get emotional or don’t know what to say?”

• “Will my problems be taken seriously?”

• “Is therapy really confidential in the UAE?”

The truth is — these feelings are completely normal. At Journey Wellness Centre, we meet you with empathy, not judgment. We also strictly follow UAE privacy and confidentiality standards, ensuring your personal information and sessions are completely secure and protected under local health and data protection laws.

What Makes Journey Wellness Centre Unique

Located in the UAE Dubai, Journey Wellness Centre offers a compassionate, culturally sensitive, and holistic approach to mental health. Our licensed therapists are experienced in helping individuals from diverse backgrounds feel safe and supported.

We specialize in:

• Individual therapy for adults and teens

• Couples and marriage counseling

• Children’s therapy and play-based interventions

• Mindfulness-based and trauma-informed care

We also offer virtual therapy sessions, so you can access support from the comfort of your home — anywhere in the UAE or beyond.

💡 Explore our therapy services

Booking Your First Session

Getting started is simple and confidential. You can book your first therapy session in the following ways:

• Online: Visit our booking page to choose a time that suits you.

• Phone: Call our clinic directly if you'd prefer a personal touch or need help choosing the right therapist.

You may be asked to fill out a brief intake form ahead of time, so your therapist can understand your concerns and tailor your first session to meet your needs.

What Happens During Your First Session

Your first session is all about creating a safe, supportive space where you can begin to share your story. Here’s what you can typically expect:

1. A warm welcome: You’ll be greeted by your therapist, either in person or virtually.

2. Introductions: Your therapist will explain how the session works and discuss confidentiality.

3. Initial conversation: You'll talk about why you’ve come to therapy and what you hope to achieve.

4. Setting goals: Together, you’ll begin identifying short- and long-term goals.

5. Asking questions: You’re welcome to ask anything — this is your space.

6. Next steps: Your therapist will guide you on what to expect moving forward.

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Remember: there’s no pressure to share everything at once. Many clients just need time to feel safe — and that’s okay.

Meet the Team

Our therapists bring both professional expertise and personal warmth to every session:

• Resha Erheim – Specializes in trauma recovery, women’s mental health, and mindfulness-based therapy.

• Sara Makke – Experienced in couples counseling, emotional wellness, and stress management.

Each member of our team is committed to confidential, non-judgmental support, tailored to your unique needs and cultural context.

Tips to Make the Most of Your First Session

Here are a few ways to feel more comfortable and get the most from your initial session:

• Write down any thoughts or concerns beforehand.

• Be honest — even if it feels hard.

• Ask your therapist any questions about the process.

• Take your time — there’s no “right” way to do therapy.

• Give yourself grace — this is a step toward healing, not perfection.

What Happens Next?

After your first session, your therapist may:

• Suggest a therapy plan and recommend how often to meet.

• Offer resources or tools to support you between sessions.

• Reassure you that therapy is a collaborative, ongoing journey.

Whether you need weekly support or occasional check-ins, we’ll personalize your care based on your pace and preferences.

What Our Clients Say

"I was nervous before my first visit, but my therapist made me feel completely comfortable. Journey Wellness Centre feels like a safe space I can always turn to."– Anonymous Client, Abu Dhabi

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is therapy really confidential in the UAE?

A: Yes. We strictly follow UAE privacy laws and clinical ethics. Your information and sessions are completely confidential.

Q: Can I book an online session?

A: Absolutely. We offer virtual therapy via secure platforms to accommodate your needs.

Q: What if I get emotional during the session?

A: That’s completely okay. Therapy is a safe place for any emotions — there’s no need to hold back.

Q: How do I know which therapist is right for me?

A: Our team will help match you with a therapist based on your needs and preferences during the intake process.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Your mental health matters — and you don’t have to face challenges alone. Whether you're in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the UAE, our team is here to support you with compassion and care.

👉 Book your first therapy session today - Call us at +971 4 553 4518

We look forward to walking this journey with you — one step at a time.