What to Expect from Your First Psychology Session in Melbourne
Starting therapy is one of the most meaningful things you can do for yourself. And yet, for most people, picking up the phone or filling in a contact form is the hardest part. If you've been putting it off because you're not sure what a psychology session actually involves, this is for you.
"You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. You don't need a diagnosis. You don't need to be able to explain exactly what's wrong."
Before your first session
The most common thing I hear from new clients is some version of: "I wasn't sure if what I'm going through is bad enough to see someone about."It is. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. You don't need a diagnosis. You don't need to be able to explain exactly what's wrong. Many people come to their first session feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply like something needs to change, and that's a completely valid reason to reach out.
The first session is not a test. It's a conversation.
Before your first session
There are a few practical things worth sorting out before you arrive. None of them is complicated.
Get a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP (optional but recommended)
If you'd like to access Medicare rebates, you'll need a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP before your first session. As of July 2025, the Medicare rebate for a registered psychologist is $98.95 per session, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket cost. Book an extended GP appointment and ask for a referral under the Better Access initiative. This gives you access to up to 10 rebated sessions per calendar year.
Check your funding type
If you're a WorkCover, TAC, or NDIS client, your sessions may be billed directly to your insurer or plan, meaning no out-of-pocket cost to you. Have your claim number or plan details ready when you book.
Nothing else required
There's nothing you need to read, write, or bring. Just yourself.
What actually happens in the first session
The first session at Vine Psychology typically runs for 50 minutes. Here's an honest breakdown of what to expect.
We'll start with the basics
I'll briefly explain how sessions work, talk through confidentiality, what I can and can't keep private, and answer any questions before we begin. This is standard practice for all new clients.
I'll ask about what brought you here
The first session is primarily about understanding what's going on for you right now. I'll ask about the main concerns that led you to seek support, not your entire life history, just what's most pressing. You don't need to share anything you're not ready to share.
We'll talk about your goals
What would be different if therapy were working? These questions help shape the direction of our work together.
I'll share my initial thoughts
Toward the end of the session, I'll share some initial observations and, if appropriate, thoughts on how we might work together and what approaches might help.
The first session is as much about you deciding whether I'm the right fit as it is about me understanding your situation. There's no obligation to continue, and no awkwardness in saying it doesn't feel right.
What the first session is NOT
A diagnostic appointment — you won't be handed a diagnosis at the end of session one
About fixing everything immediately — therapy is a process, not a quick fix
A one-way interrogation — it's a conversation, and you're in control of what you share
Judgemental — whatever brings you through the door, you'll be met with warmth and curiosity
A commitment — you can decide after the first session whether you'd like to continue
At Vine Psychology, online sessions via Telehealth are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays for clients across Melbourne and regional Victoria. Many people find starting with an online session less daunting. You're in your own environment, there's no commute, and the quality of support is exactly the same.
What if I don't feel comfortable?
The relationship between a client and their therapist matters enormously. Research consistently shows that the therapeutic alliance, the sense of connection, trust, and collaboration, is one of the strongest predictors of a good outcome in therapy.
That means if the fit doesn't feel right after your first session, it's okay to say so. A different therapist, or a different approach, might suit you better. There's no awkwardness in it.
Ready to take the first step?
Vine Psychology is based in Surrey Hills, Melbourne, serving clients from Mont Albert, Balwyn, Box Hill, Camberwell, Canterbury, Doncaster and surrounds. Online sessions available anywhere in Australia.
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