Nervous

[Shutterfly]

Meeting with a psychologist for the first time tomorrow. I’m feeling super nervous tonight.

I’ve had depression and anxiety since I was a teen so I had a psychiatrist when I was in junior high and high school. I also had a counsellor until January when I decided to leave college.

It’s just telling my story to a new person makes me feel so judged

[Agora1]

Hi Shutterfly, I wouldn't worry about being judged by the psychologist. It's more about having to retell your story regarding anxiety and depression since you were a teen. In doing that it makes us relive those years and can be quite draining. Go in with an open mind that you will get the help you need by telling your life's journey to a professional as well as having someone new take a listen. I wish you well. Give it more than the first visit> Let us know how it goes. xx

[Sandia]

I can relate, I felt the same way when I had to get a new counselor after mine left. Actually it worked out better than I ever could of imagined, I liked this counselor so much more and she even had better ideas and helpful solutions. I know it’s hard not to feel judged but try and go into this with an open mind, you never know what could happen. Good luck!

[Nutella06]

They wouldn't be very good at their job if all they are going to do is judge you. I can as well as everyone with a mental illness relate to your nervousness but, you said you have seen a psychiatrist and a counselor before. Were you able to speak to them? Did you feel judged? As long as you don't personally know this psychologist I would think he or she is going to want to help you but, they would need to access you to see where you are on a scale of how depressed and anxious you are. I hope they give you a good assessment and can refer you to a psychiatrist if they feel you need meds or more intensive treatment. It's going to take time and you will have to tell this person specific examples of your problems. If you don't connect with this psychologist, find another one. I hope it all works out for you and remember there are millions of people who have mental illness and a lot never seek help. At least you have the courage to seek out help to hopefully improve your future. Think positivity. Take care.

[Shutterfly in reply to Nutella06]

Already on meds so this is for CBT

[Nutella06 in reply to Shutterfly]

CBT is very effective but, yes you have to open up. I think you will be fine. I'm sure the psychologist knows that you will be nervous on the 1st meeting and they will do everything to make you comfortable. Good luck.

[Gardengazer]

PLEASE don't feel judged. We ALL have a story. You won't be judged here!