by Sameet Kumar, Ph.D.

The beginning of the psychotherapy session can set the tone for the rest of the hour, and sometimes even the rest of the relationship. The crucial first few minutes can also be used to quickly identify the goals you will be working on together. The simplest way to do this is with the question, “How can I help you today?”

The immediate response to this question is frequently the most urgent problem for which your client wants to see you. Ideally, the response to this question will immediately identify therapeutic goals.

Often, the response can be vague. In these instances, your task is to empathize with the client but also to articulate their needs into manageable and identifiable goals. Your intention in setting goals is to allow you and the client to know when therapy is helping.

Working with your client towards mutually agreed-upon goals can help your client feel empowered and cared for while at the same time giving you a sense of purpose and direction in therapy. This simple first question also refers to the reason why you have chosen this profession—to help.

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