How to prepare for therapy?

[Kevin160]

First therapy appointment tomorrow, im really anxious about it and i dont know what to expect , anyone can tell

1)my what usually happens

2)ways to prepare and make the most out of it

[paint1018]

Hey Kevin. Good for you for going to therapy. I know it's not for everyone but I think it can be such a great thing to do, i just think it feels really good to sit with someone for a little each week to talk about whats on your mind. Just a nice release.

I don't want to reply as if I know everything. Unfortunately the answers to your questions really depend on what type of therapist you end up meeting with (what their personality is like, their methods, etc. )

But, I would say since it's your first session with them they'll probably ask you different things like "what brings you here", "what do you hope to work on in therapy, what do you hope to get out of it". They might ask about your background (childhood, family life, work, etc), depending on what things you want to discuss with them. Just remember it's supposed to be a space of feeling safe and open to be honest, but without the pressure to share if you aren't ready. Obviously it can take some time to build trust with a therapist and that's expected, but I know from my experience it can be really amazing once you meet a therapist you really trust. But on that note I will say I know some people who have met a therapist and not liked them then they just don't try again. Sometimes it's not always a good match on the first try but that's ok because there's so many great therapists out there. Sometimes personalities just don't match, it's normal but doesn't mean therapy can't help.

To prepare I'd say just breath, be open to the experience and do/say what feels natural. I know sometimes in my past I would write down things I wanted to talk about, just so I wouldn't forget and get upset after the session realizing something i really wanted to discuss i forgot to bring up. So if you think that might help that's an option.

I hope it goes well.

[Kevin160 in reply to paint1018]

Thank you so much for the help

[Fumble]

I think it's best to just note a couple of things that are on your mind and you would like to cover. Sessions go quickly so just anything major, maybe just a couple of posts from here? Don't over think the first session, just get there and see how it goes. Allow a little time after to think about-the session then ask any questions you have on here?

[Kevin160 in reply to Fumble]

Ya i mentioned most of the things but i mean you can fit so much in one session especially when its an assessment not starting the treatment or a follow up , but i would say im happy that i expressed and talked about anything to allow him to make an informed evaluation

Thanks for the advice

[MrZee]

Hi Kevin160,

When going to a therapist, as what to say or prepare... there’s no right or wrong. All you have to do is be yourself. Your therapist and you will develop your healing journey together.

Pat yourself on the back for wanting to nurture your mental health. That’s an accomplishment in itself.

Best,

MZ

[Kevin160 in reply to MrZee]

Yeah im happy i finally went , it was long overdue ..thanks for your feedback

[Rlich]

I agree with Mr Zee; just be yourself & give yourself credit for putting you first

[Kevin160 in reply to Rlich]

Thank you , it wasn't easy and i should have did that a long time ago and put myself first , but that's ok now

[Alta-mae]

My comment is to first feel the therapist out. If you feel do feel comfortable with him or her, it might make a difference. Just like MD's and dentists.

[Kevin160 in reply to Alta-mae]

I usually felt comfortable knowing he is qualified to make a good assessment and that there is confidentiality so even though it was awkward talking to a stranger , it didnt feel so bad and i got a diagnosis and knew how to go from there ..so this makes me more at peace with it

[MrZee in reply to Kevin160]

I am so glad to read that. Thank you 😊

[MrZee in reply to Alta-mae]

Hi Kevin160,

Alta-mae has a good point. And it appears you’re at that point... finding the therapist that you’re comfortable with.

It took me 3 tries to find the therapist I’m comfortable with. And I’ve been seeing him for 34 years. Wow... 3 decades... seems like such a long time, eh? Would you believe that for each session I’ve gone to over the course of time I’ve always learned something new.

When some people tell me, “Gee Mr. Z you’ve really got it together,” inwardly I think, ‘thanks to having a great therapist.’

You’re on your way...

Best,

MZ