What Happens in a Therapy Session?
Inside the Sacred Space of Existential-Analytic Therapy
What happens in a therapy session? It’s a question many people carry quietly—especially if therapy feels unfamiliar or intimidating. Understandably, the unknown can create anxiety, particularly if you’re used to environments that prioritise performance, productivity, or politeness.
At Thrive Together Psychotherapy, we offer something different: a space that doesn’t demand answers or outcomes, but invites reflection, presence, and honest connection.
What to Expect in Your First Therapy Session
Sessions begin with you. You may come in with a clear issue—an argument, a tough decision, or a burst of anxiety. Or you might arrive with a vague sense of discomfort, unable to name what’s wrong. Either way, you are welcome.
Rather than diagnosing or advising, your therapist helps you explore your experience. They may ask:
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What’s it like to feel this way?
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When did this feeling begin?
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Where do you notice it in your body?
Sometimes, they may sit in silence, honouring what hasn’t yet found words.
👉 The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) offers a helpful guide on how different therapies work.
Therapy as Meaning-Making, Not Quick Fixing
As your sessions continue, you may begin to notice patterns—how you talk about yourself, avoid certain feelings, or tighten your body when a subject arises. These aren’t faults. They are signposts.
In existential-analytic therapy, we see these as clues to something deeper—often related to unmet needs, unspoken fears, or long-standing ways of surviving.
👉 Irvin Yalom describes therapy as a process of uncovering meaning rather than applying solutions—an idea that shapes our approach, too.
In Therapy, Emotions Are Seen as Messengers
Rather than treating emotions as problems to eliminate, existential therapy asks: What is this feeling trying to tell me?
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Anger might speak to a boundary crossed.
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Anxiety may reflect the fear of being fully seen—or of freedom itself.
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Sadness could be grief that has gone unspoken.
👉 Explore The School of Life’s take on emotional insight for a deeper look at this concept.
So, What Happens in a Therapy Session? Life Happens.
Real therapy isn’t about having answers—it’s about showing up as you are.
In this space, there’s no need to perform. You’re allowed to be uncertain, silent, tearful, or raw. Your therapist won’t fix you. Instead, they’ll walk alongside you as you begin to make sense of what’s unfolding.
👉 Psychology Today provides an accessible overview of how therapy can support emotional health.
Try It For Yourself—No Pressure, No Labels
At Thrive Together Psychotherapy, we offer a free 2-hour consultation so you can experience therapy—not just read about it.
📍 Weybridge, Surrey
🌿 Existential Therapy for Anxiety, Depression & Emotional Disconnection
👉 Book Your Free Consultation
