Therapists
Starting therapy can feel like the hardest part, mostly because it’s hard to know where to even begin. For anyone considering therapy in Buffalo, a little clarity on the process can make that first step feel a lot more manageable.
The good news is that getting started doesn’t have to be complicated. Once you understand what to expect, from figuring out what kind of support you need to knowing what happens during intake, the whole process becomes a lot less intimidating.
Figuring Out What You Need Support With
Before booking a session, it helps to have at least a rough idea of what’s bringing you in. For a lot of people, that’s anxiety, chronic stress, or a general feeling of being stuck without knowing exactly why.
For others, it’s a major life transition, like a new job, a move, or a relationship change, that has stirred up more than expected. Relationship or family-related concerns are common too. You don’t need a perfectly defined reason to start therapy, but having a general sense of what’s going on can help your therapist get oriented faster.
Choosing Between In-Person and Telehealth
One of the first decisions to make is how you want to attend sessions. Telehealth has become a popular option because of the flexibility it offers, especially for people juggling work, school, or family responsibilities.
In-person sessions still work well for clients who prefer face-to-face conversation or find it easier to focus outside their usual environment. The important thing to know is that both formats offer the same quality of care, so the choice really comes down to personal preference and what fits your schedule best.
What Happens During Intake
Intake is simply the process of getting started. It usually begins with a short consultation where a therapist or intake coordinator asks about what’s bringing you in and what you’re hoping to get out of therapy.
From there, you’re matched with a therapist based on your specific needs, whether that’s anxiety, a life transition, or something else. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out before this conversation. The goal of intake is simply to point you in the right direction.
Setting Realistic Expectations
It helps to go into therapy with realistic expectations about pace. Progress tends to build gradually across several sessions rather than happening all at once, and that’s completely normal.
It’s also common for the first few sessions to feel a bit exploratory, as you and your therapist get to know each other and figure out what approach works best. Consistency tends to matter more than intensity, so showing up regularly, even when sessions feel slow, usually pays off over time.
Conclusion
Starting therapy in Buffalo doesn’t need to be complicated, and taking that first step is often the biggest part of the entire mental health journey.
Mindset Psychology provides telehealth therapy throughout New York State, including Buffalo, with licensed psychologists and therapists available to match clients with the right fit. A free 15-minute consultation makes it easy to get started with confidence. Call 516-208-2638 to book yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start therapy for the first time?
Most people start with a short consultation, where a therapist or intake coordinator learns about your needs and matches you with the right provider.
What’s the difference between telehealth and in-person therapy?
Telehealth sessions happen virtually, while in-person sessions take place at an office. Both offer the same quality of care, so the choice comes down to preference.
How soon will I notice progress in therapy?
Progress varies from person to person, but many clients begin noticing small shifts within the first several sessions.
Is therapy covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover therapy sessions. It’s best to confirm your specific coverage with your provider or during your consultation.
What should I expect during my first session?
Your first session is mostly a conversation about what’s bringing you in and what you’re hoping to work on, with no pressure to have it all figured out.
Dr. Jonathan Rabbani, PsyD is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Mindset Psychology, specializing in anxiety, OCD, panic disorders, ADHD, depression, and self-esteem. He utilizes evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-based practices to help patients achieve meaningful, lasting change. Known for his warm, collaborative, and culturally sensitive style, Dr. Rabbani creates a safe, non-judgmental space where patients feel empowered to set goals and take control of their mental health journey. He holds a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from CUNY Baruch College.