It is completely normal to be anxious before the first visit. Below – about how the first meetings with a psychologist usually go, from initial nervousness to discussing therapy goals.
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Seeking help is normal
First of all, visiting a psychologist is not something bad and does not automatically mean that there is “something wrong” with you.
There is still a common belief that a person asking for help is weak or unable to handle their problems on their own. However, psychological help may be needed at very different stages of life and for a variety of reasons.
People turn to psychologists not only when everything in life is falling apart. Help may be needed when choosing a career path, experiencing major life changes, wanting to better understand oneself, assess psychological condition, or identify possible mental health difficulties.
What to expect during the first meeting?
The first meeting is usually for getting acquainted. The psychologist will want to better understand what brought you here, what you expect from the consultations, and what you would like to change. Possible goals for further work may also be discussed.
The first consultation can cause quite a bit of nervousness – and that is completely understandable. After all, you are talking to someone you have not known before about things that can be very personal.
Therefore, the first meeting, and sometimes the first few, are often dedicated to building mutual trust and connection between the client and the psychologist. Research shows that the therapeutic relationship between the client and the specialist is one of the most important parts of successful therapy.
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What if I don’t like the psychologist?
That can happen, and it is worth keeping in mind.
You should not feel obliged to continue consultations with a psychologist if you feel that the mutual connection is not developing or you simply do not feel comfortable with the specialist.
You are the most important in this process. Sometimes it may be necessary to talk to several different specialists until you find someone with whom you feel safe and can speak openly.
It is sometimes joked that finding a good psychologist is like searching for a good hairdresser – you don’t always find the most suitable one on the first try.
Meeting plan
At the beginning of the consultation, it may be helpful to briefly agree on what you would like to talk about that time.
You can raise any topic important to you, and together with the psychologist decide what the meeting should focus on the most, considering your goals.
A psychologist’s consultation usually lasts about 50 minutes. Defining the main topics in advance makes it easier to structure the conversation, discuss what is most relevant, and avoid the feeling of having to rush at the end of the session.
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Prepared based on “Progressive psychology”.
