With Dr. Ali Al Farhan

Your first session

You may arrive with a clear question or with a feeling that is difficult to describe. You do not need to have your whole story organised before we meet. We can begin with what is on your mind and work towards understanding it together.

What will we talk about?

We begin with what prompted you to book now: what is troubling you, when it began, and how it affects your daily life and relationships. Depending on what is relevant, I may ask about your current circumstances, health, previous treatment and medication.

We do not need to cover everything in the first meeting. You can tell me if a question feels difficult or ask why I am asking it. Assessment may take more than one session before a clearer picture emerges.

What if I do not know where to start?

You can begin with something that happened this week, a recurring feeling, or simply say: "Something is troubling me, but I do not know how to explain it." We will try to find words that fit your experience. You do not need a polished account or prepared answers.

How can you prepare?

  • If helpful, note what is troubling you and one or two questions you would like to discuss.
  • Have the names of any current medications and relevant previous reports or information available, if applicable.
  • For an online session, choose a quiet, private place and check your connection and how to join the appointment.
  • For an in-person session, check the clinic location and the details in your booking confirmation.

What happens next?

We discuss what is becoming clearer, what you would like to change and the options that may suit your needs. If ongoing work is appropriate, we discuss its goals, session frequency and how we will review progress. If further assessment or another professional is needed, we discuss why and the proposed next step.

You can ask about the approach, likely duration and costs, or share any hesitation before deciding about further sessions. The plan depends on your needs and what emerges during assessment.

Privacy and your questions

You can discuss confidentiality, its limits and how your information is handled before we begin. Booking, rescheduling and cancellation details are explained in the booking and service terms, and information about data handling is available in the privacy policy.

For general guidance on choosing a therapist and discussing treatment goals: National Institute of Mental Health.