Every practitioner is unique, and so is each first consultation. While there's no single way a session will unfold, most first consultations share a similar rhythm: getting to know you, understanding your wellness needs, and beginning your work together.
Your practitioner will likely start by asking questions about your wellness goals, current health, lifestyle, and what brought you to seek their support. This isn't an interrogation—it's a conversation designed to help them understand your whole picture. They'll listen carefully and ask follow-up questions that help them understand what matters most to you.
Depending on their modality, your practitioner may do an assessment or initial work during this first session. Some might perform bodywork, take your pulse, discuss herbal recommendations, or begin coaching conversations. Others might spend the full session gathering information. Trust that they're designing the session in the way that serves you best.
Most importantly, a first consultation is about beginning to build trust and connection. It's an opportunity for you to experience how this practitioner works and whether their approach resonates with you.
How to Prepare
- Bring your wellness profile: If you completed one, having it handy helps your practitioner quickly understand your background
- Write down your goals: Jot down what you hope to achieve. This helps you communicate clearly and helps your practitioner understand your priorities
- Be honest: Share what's really going on—your stress, sleep habits, health concerns, or anything relevant. The more your practitioner knows, the better they can help
- Ask about logistics: Know the session length, cost, and what happens next. It's okay to clarify these details upfront
Getting the Most Out of It
Listen to your intuition during the session. Does this practitioner feel trustworthy? Do they listen without judgment? Do their explanations make sense to you? Your comfort and connection matter—if something doesn't feel right, that's valuable information.
Don't hesitate to ask questions. You might wonder about their approach, how they work, what they're doing, or why. Good practitioners welcome curiosity and are happy to explain their work.
After your session, take a few moments to reflect. How do you feel? Did anything shift or become clear? Did the session meet your expectations? These reflections help you decide if this is the right practitioner for you and what you'd like to explore in future sessions.
Remember: a first consultation is the beginning of getting to know each other. It's perfectly fine to need more time to decide if this partnership feels right. Trust yourself, and honor what you discover in those early moments together.
Learn More
Explore these related guides to support your wellness journey: