First psychologist appointment tomorrow....?!
Question: I have my first psychologist appointment tomorrow, I'm kind of nervous. I have a fear of going crazy ... and I'm worry that he will tell me I am lol:P Regardless I made the appointment , so how should I start the conversation off? Should I just come straight out and tell him my fear? Or should I tell him a little history of the anxiety issues in my family and myself?
Answers: I have my first psychologist appointment tomorrow, I'm kind of nervous. I have a fear of going crazy ... and I'm worry that he will tell me I am lol:P Regardless I made the appointment , so how should I start the conversation off? Should I just come straight out and tell him my fear? Or should I tell him a little history of the anxiety issues in my family and myself?
It would be ok to let the psychologist know once you trust him. Its your first appointment so just answer the questions he may ask you. Its best to tell him at least what you fear and what you feel now, then gradually the conversation will start. Good Luck
The psychologist will ask why you came to see him and you can explain what is going on. You are not, I am sure, going crazy. You may have a few issues to work on but if you were crazy you wouldnt be scared. Its okay to just come out and tell him that though - get right to what is bothering you and you guys can work on finding out why.
Hi. Don't worry. When you go in, you will complete a history and questionnaire. On there, you can indicate your fears, anxieties, concerns. He/she will look it over and then call you in. He/she will initiate the conversation and ask you questions. Let them take the lead. If you don't feel like you are getting it out, then, by all means, explain your fears and why you are seeking treatment.
Good luck to you and I am happy that you have recognized your problem and are seeking treatment. So many who could be helped are not because they are fearful of letting things out.
Take a deep breath tonight and calm yourself.
Find a 3X5 card
- On one side, briefly write what you think your problem is
- On the other side, briefly write your questions
Take this card with you to your appointment, along with a new notebook so you can take notes.
-Your first visit will be mostly paperwork and his asking basic questions, scheduling, fees, legal ground rules.....
Eventually the psychologist will come to the question "What brings you in today"? This is when you pull-out your 3X5 card, and glance at your notes (so you don't forget)
Let him ask you questions, and simply respond, answering his questions.
During the conversation, he will be observing and listening with the purpose of making assessment of your memory, your sense of here-and-now, your basic skills possibly a couple simple math questions.
Toward the end of the appointment is the time for you to ask
- what he thinks your problem is
- Is this something he has experience working with
- How long it might take in weeks or months of therapy to
- A brief outline of what to expect in the course of therapy
- Ask if there will be homework assignments, and how much time you should devote to that each week
- Ask if he feels he can work well with you, or if you should find a different person to work with.
- If you have question about the fees or scheduling, now is the time to ask.
- Consider within yourself if you can work with this person, are you comfortable in his presence? Is he kind, or abrasive?.....etc.
Like I said, take a deep breath, and simply talk with this psychologist as you would with any other person.