Deciding to start therapy can oftentimes feel like a BIG step, not only emotionally, but also financially. Thus, it is essential to prepare for your first appointment so that you can get the most out of the process, from the very start.
With any psychologist, the first session can sometimes feel a bit strange or awkward. After all, you will be meeting with a stranger to talk about things that might make you feel uncomfortable. Don’t worry! A psychologist is an educated and skilled helper who should put you at ease and guide the first session.
The benefits of preparing ahead of time are simple; it can reduce your anxiety, and it can help you organize your thoughts by knowing what the actual problems are.
Step 1: Find the right psychologist for you.
The professional relationship that develops between you and a psychologist is a crucial element for the success of therapy. Therefore, it is essential to select a psychologist who has experience addressing your specific concerns. Look at information online or call to find out whether they specialize in what you might be struggling with.
Step 2: Know why you need therapy at this particular stage in your life.
You will most probably be asked about what brought you to therapy. Try to be as specific as possible … Make a list of the symptoms you experience (also think about how long these symptoms have been present), difficult past experiences, and current life stressors. It will be easier to formulate goals for therapy if you know what needs to be addressed.
Step 3: Make a list of topics to cover.
Therapy won’t last forever – so make the most out of the process! Make a list of all the things you would like to discuss or questions that you would like to ask.
Step 4: Dress in something that will make you feel comfortable.
Therapy is entirely for you – there is absolutely no need to feel pressured to dress in a certain way! Put something on that will make you feel comfortable.
Step 5: Complete the necessary paperwork and admin related matters first.
If you feel unsure about the logistics of therapy, ask in your first session. Some important things to consider are:
- The cost of therapy.
- The number of sessions that will be needed to address your specific problem.
- The duration of sessions.
- How often will sessions be (weekly, biweekly, or monthly)?
Understanding the logistics of therapy will make it easier for you to integrate it into your life.
Step 6: Clear space in your diary before and after your appointment
A therapy session can oftentimes make you feel emotional. You might need some time to reflect and process what occurred during a therapy session. Thus, it is important to ensure that you will have enough time to do so before you have to return to school or work.
Step 7: Understand that therapy is not a quick fix
Most people have a misconception of what therapy actually is. It is not just talking to someone. Even only it was that simple. To change, improve, or grow takes a lot of work, effort, trust, and emotional investment. Just as it takes time for problems to develop and interfere with your life, it takes time to work through and unravel those challenges. So, don’t expect change from the first session. The first session is for collecting information, setting the tone of therapy, and establishing the therapeutic relationship.
In summary, it is important to choose the right psychologist for you, think about the reasons why you are seeking therapy at this particular stage of your life, make a list of topics to cover, dress comfortably, ensure the necessary paperwork has been completed, schedule some time for yourself, and remember that therapy is not a quick fix – it will take some work!
