The first session is usually one and a half hours long. During this session, you and your psychologist will review your background, your present circumstances, and the problems you are experiencing. Your psychologist may ask about topics such as your family background, medical history, current relationships, and specific psychological symptoms that you may be experiencing. You will have the opportunity to share any other information you feel is important, and to ask any questions you may have. Your psychologist will explore your understanding of the problems you are experiencing, and your hopes or goals for therapy. You and your psychologist will begin to develop a collaborative therapeutic partnership. By the end of the first or second session, your psychologist will be able to share his or her impressions of the problems you are experiencing. Together, you will discuss and develop a treatment strategy to help you make positive changes in your life.