First Therapist

the_midnight_faerie · 01-07-2010, 05:27 AM

Sorry if this is the wrong section, I'm not sure.

So I went to a therapist for the first time ever today for my self harm.

She was nice, but it was extremely awkward and I must have looked ridiculous because I was so jittery. I also couldn't help but feel judged the entire time.

I'm going back in 2 weeks. Does anyone have any success with therapists, or suggestions of how I should act with her? I know this sounds strange, I just have never had experience with stuff like this.

Thank you!
xoxo

Amaryllis · 01-07-2010, 05:58 AM

Oh gosh, I remember being terrified about my first therapy appointment, and most of them for a month or so.

I think a lot of it will depend on how you generally behave, and the chemistry the two of you develop.

What helped me was to, during the time between visits, write out what was bugging me in list form, and then give it to him at the beginning, to give a launching point. It also really helped, because I had a speech impediment at the time. What also helped was to practice talking about what was upsetting me.

And if you're nervous about therapy and how to act, it's totally cool to talk to your therapist about that too! They will have seen that before and they may be able to help you with it. They want you to be okay with it.

PaleMoon · 01-07-2010, 05:59 AM

You don't have to act in any particular way, but in this early stage, both you and the therapist are trying each other out. It's natural to be nervous, especially if you haven't been in therapy before.

I'd advise giving it at least two more sessions to decide if you feel comfortable around her. If there are any glaring issues, move on. Otherwise, it takes time to build up a relationship with a therapist and you don't have to trust her right away, no matter her degrees or experience. She works for you, you are her client, and getting the best treatment you can is the ultimate goal.

Good luck in the following appointments and your recovery :).

crazykat · 01-07-2010, 06:11 AM

First sessions with a therapist is generally hard and does often feel awkward so your not alone in feeling that way. Also there is no right or wrong way you should act just be yourself and try and be as honest as you can, that way you will get the best out of your sessions. So yeah give it a few more sessions to see if your comfortable with her or not. Take care
Kat xxx

the_midnight_faerie · 03-07-2010, 08:09 PM

Thanks everyone. Sorry I have not been on to reply, I've been busy. :)

I have a therapy appointment on July 14. The day before my birthday. Lovely gift, eh? She told me to keep a list of every time I feel the need to SI, but I keep forgetting to write it down... and I feel kind of invaded by that too... Also, she has to tell my mom by law if I tell her of any harm I've done or want to do to myself, so that highly impacts my comfort with her.

I like the list idea. Once again, thanks for the replies. ^_^

x-dying-inside-x · 03-07-2010, 08:31 PM

i had a few that i didn't get on with but the one i have now is really lovely.
I really get on with her.
It takes time to build a relationship with a therapist but you will build a relationship with them and then you will feel that you can take the them more.
xx