First Therapy Session

[Jen]

I have finally done it. I've made myself an appointment with a therapist on Tuesday. I feel like I've made a massive step but still feel so close to backing out. I feel very scared. Really very nervous. I don't know how to do it, what to talk about - I feel I may not even be able to talk at all but I know something needs to change.

Does anyone have any advice? Any tips for not being a gibbering mess for your first session? How did you all feel and get over the anxiety of your first session?

Please help because I don't know of I can go through with it x

 

[Lucycat]

You CAN do it!

Please stop worrying. Don't try and think about what to say. Just take it as it comes. You may or may not talk about any 'important' stuff at the first session. But just getting to know each other is important stuff. I am sure your T is experienced and he/she will guide you.

I was anxious before my first session, but that evaporated once I met T and he explained how he could help me. It was also incredibly reassuring to be told that I am not crazy and many people have shared the same experiences. I met T before I discovered the forums so did not have the benefit of anybody else's words.

Don't try and plan what you want from the session. But if you want some thinking to occupy your mind then try and think about your long term recovery. What will that look like? How different would you like to be? What do you want to achieve in life in general?

Enjoy your weekend - and relax!
Regards
Lucy x

 

[rainbow1]

I hope you manage to go to the first session. I was really nervous before my first session with T but I just told him straight away that I didn't know what to say. I think we just talked a little about why I thought it might help to see T and just generally got to know one another.

It will be fine. I know it's easier said than done but try not to worry. Your new T is used to meeting people for the first time that are terrified.

 

[Broken2]

You should take a moment to congratulate yourself on taking a big step. It is a VERY difficult one.

Your therapist may do what is generally referred to as an "intake", which is just a series of questions to get a lay of the land. Aside from simply asking, "What brings you here?" you may get alot of more specific questions about things you're experiencing now (symptoms, problems) that can indicate what needs you might have right now. For example, symptoms of PTSD and depression would be important to know. Also, you may be asked about family history and dynamics, your social structure, and probably general questions about any trauma (if you can, try to indicate in a general way what you've been through). If you are unable to say anything, nonverbal responses will often do. I was asked and I couldn't make myself say anything but I gave a nod, and now it's there. I haven't talked about it at all yet but at least I don't have to feel like she doesn't have a clue.

It can't hurt for you to be honest about the level of anxiety you're feeling at the session. That tells them something too.

Know that they will NOT pass judgment of any kind on anything you say. They're there to help you. You are in control.

 

[Jen]

Thank you all for your replies and your advice. I know I need to not think too much about it and just do it. I just feel sick and start to panic when I think about even acknowledging what happened to anyone. I shake a lot when I talk about anything personal and really don't want to do that. I'm scared of someone seeing me so vulnerable, I've worked so hard for that to never happen.

Makes me feel a bit better hearing from you guys tho, and I do need to remember that I am the one in control, this helps me slightly. I hope I find the courage to walk through them doors and not back out, there's something in the back of my mind telling me to do so. I need to help fix myself, I can't be sad/angry/depressed anymore.

Thank you everyone x

 

[Jen]

11 hours and counting! Can't sleep or eat and feel quite sick but planning on trying never the less.

Wish me luck! x

 

[Broken2]

Proud for you that you're taking the step. Rest if you can.

I hope you feel some measure of relief!

 

[Jen]

I made that first step and it was hard but I feel like I may be getting somewhere.

I've started my own diary on here now as I feel like I am officially on the way to recovery although it will be hard.

Thank you for your advice and support x

 

[Lucycat]

So, Please tell us how are you getting on now? Did you have that first appointment? have you been again?

 

[anndeb]

Starting therapy is a big step forward and change, even good change is stressful. Take good, good care of yourself and give yourself lots of credit for doing a brave, difficult thing. Every best wish for a successful outcome and a good match, yourself and your T..