Author: Terry Barrett
4 Tips For Your Very First Therapeutic Appointment
We have come a long way in accepting therapy and mental health support. However, stigma and barriers still exist and prevent people from scheduling therapy for the first time.
Many of us have problems with mental health, but only 1 in 3 people seek and receive the mental health support they need and deserve.
Seeing a therapist for the first time can be anxiety-provoking in itself. The very idea of sharing information about your problem, life, relationships, and background with someone you don’t know may seem so intimidating that it can prevent you from making an appointment.
But be aware that you are not alone in having these fears. Here are four ways to help you start your first therapy session with confidence.
Prepare yourselves
The first therapy session is mainly an opportunity for the therapist to gather information. He will ask you what leads you to seek help and will ask you questions about your life, relationships, etc. Write down some of your thoughts and feelings on a piece of paper or on your phone. It is sometimes difficult to identify and verbalize your feelings, especially when you are in an unusual situation. These notes can help you specify what you would like to share with your therapist on your first appointment.
Nothing better than honesty
It is important, to be honest with your therapist. You are in a safe environment, and the therapists are there to help you, not to judge you. They understand that some details may seem difficult or annoying to address, but it is important to share them frankly so that they can offer you the proper treatment.
Relationship is essential
Your relationship with your therapist is the best indicator of the success of your therapeutic journey. Sometimes we let first impressions take over, so giving the therapist a chance is essential. If, after some time, you do not feel good contact with your therapist, do not hesitate to ask for the expertise of another mental health professional.
Nervousness is normal
Feeling nervous before talking to a therapist for the first time is a perfectly normal reaction. If you don’t know what to say, tell your therapist, and he will guide you. Remember, you are in a safe environment, and no one is judging your feelings or behaviors.
You will get there!
It can be difficult to decide and take the first step in seeking professional mental health help. Therapy can help you deal with and put troubling problems into context, as well as prepare you for future challenges and stressors.…
Five Tips For Choosing A Therapist
Between Chéri and you, it’s no longer going. What if you consult a couple of therapists to go up the slope? Our advice.
Tip # 1: trust word-of-mouth
It is very complicated to choose a couple of therapists “simply” by browsing through a list of websites. To be sure you come across a competent and understanding therapist, listen up and play on your network – this is often the best indicator.
Tip # 2: make your choice as a couple
There is no question of imposing a therapist on Chéri: it is the best way to start therapy on the wrong basis. Overcome (temporarily) your difficulties in order to choose a therapist together – to agree, it can take time, but it is essential!
Tip # 3: don’t neglect sexuality
Ideally, choose a therapist (or psychotherapist or psychologist) who is also a sex therapist. Indeed, the sexual question is often linked to the conflictual situation of the couple, and it is a theme that will surely have to be addressed.
Tip # 4: Ask about their specialty
Some couple therapists work thanks to a systemic approach to the problem (the couple is replaced in the “system” that is the family), others with an analytical approach (the therapist analyzes past behaviors), still others have a behavioral approach (we study the functioning of the couple in daily life) … It’s up to you to see what suits you best!
Tip # 5: feel free to give it a try
If you are not entirely sure of your choice, do not hesitate to request a test session from the therapist you have selected: this will allow you to determine whether or not it is the professional who suits you. In addition, the first contact by email can also inform you.
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