Psychologist

[...Kai]

Hi, I'm really sorry for asking since I'm pretty much useless on advice giving and stuff on here but kinda starting to freak out a little. My doctor has referred me to a clinical psychologist and my first appointment is tomorrow morning. My friend was going to go with me but am not so sure now and might be going alone now and I'm not really sure what to expect when I go...? If anyone else has been to see one, what was your experience of it?
Any advice or anything would be really appreciated and thanks for reading

[Bellatrix]

You'll be asked to have a little talk about what's difficult for you right now. They may need your medical and family history and any previous difficulties you have. Assessments/first appointments are just info-gathering.

[...Kai]

Ah right ok, thanks This is the first time going to see someone like this, just so nervous...

[Bellatrix]

That's understandable love, but all you have to do it go, talk and be as open and honest as possible. Good luck.

[offlineforever]

If you don't want to talk about something, or find it a bit difficult to answer, tell them and explain why as much as you can.

for example, in my first appointment, they asked me to talk about relationships and i refused just by saying 'I've been used by ex's and don't feel comfortable talking about it yet'

[...Kai]

Bellatrix- Thanks for the good luck, I think I might need it :)

Doctor Colbertface- Thank you for your advice :) Its kind of a relief to know that I can do that. I will need to try and remember that tomorrow

I suppose it doesnt help that I'm a natural worrier. I know that if I can just make myself go through with it and not chicken out then I will be one step closer to getting better.

I want to thank you both again and I hope u both are well

[offlineforever]

Let us know how it goes

[...Kai]

I will do xx

[SarahBlue]

Hey, try not to worry. It's not as daunting as you think it might be. I think it's the uncertainty that makes it worse! But if you have any troubles or difficulties explaining things, maybe write them down before you go? That way they can get a complete view of the difficulties you are having? Good luck xx

[SarahBlue]

I just realised your appointment was today! *silly me* How did it go? x

[...Kai]

SarahBlue- that's ok your advice was still really helpful thanks

So yesterday I ended up not sleeping at all because I was so nervous. My friend did come with me which i think made me a bit calmer, especially since she kept cracking jokes n stuff. Really helped a lot! When I went in the woman was really nice to me but there was so many questions! Question after question, and I wasn't able to answer a lot of them because some of them were really personal but she said that was ok and to be expected since it was the first appointment.
She wants to refer me to a psychiatrist, something about getting a diagnosis? She must have seen fear in my face because she went on to explain that it was nothing to be scared about, would just be someone like her but that it would be really helpful and in my best interests to see one.
Can't really get my head around yesterday, just so much to take in and stuff...
I've to go back and see her in a few weeks and hopefully I won't be so nervous.
Everyone's advice has been great and I think I will have to use it again for the next time I go.
Thank you xx

[random.swirls]

Glad it went well!

First appts with mental health people are draining as there are so many questions but once you have got through the first appt it does get much easier although you will be expected to talk about deep personal things but this should be done in your own time.

The difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist is that a psychiatrist has medical training so is able to diagnose and prescribe medication etc. It sounds like the psychologist thinks this may be a good avenue for you to explore and whilst I know the nerves will get to you prior to your appt. I promise they will get easier!