SEEING A THERAPIST FOR THE FIRST TIME MIGHT BE DAUNTING

Seeing a therapist for the first time to address your depression or anger management issues can be nerve-racking, according to my clients. Some situations are embarrassing to discuss, while others are easy to open up about. I’ve worked in health and mental health since 1989; please click here to see all of my credentials)  After several years of doing this, I got desensitised to what it was like to see a psychologist for the first time. I was motivated by an acquaintance who started his sessions this week with a lot of questions about what not to say and who to say, and his confusion led me to address his query, which you probably have in the same way. My response is that if you’re going to see a therapist to talk about depression or anger management issues, you should attempt to be open about everything, including any other mental health difficulties.

“Shame impedes progress; openness facilitates it”

Your unwillingness to share all issues that sabotage any aspect of your life will result in a lack of knowledge, an incorrect diagnosis, or an insufficient treatment plan for your depression and anger management issues. Early in my career, I had a client who made minimal progress which made me feel confused, and six months into his sessions, he disclosed that he had an affair. It was then that the real work began. This is another example of how a lack of openness wastes  your time and money that you invest into your sessions.

What to look for in your therapist

I was startled when my acquaintance, who had recently started sessions, told me that his prior therapist refused to answer questions about how the method worked and the benefits it provides.

“A good therapist can answer your questions”

On that topic, a competent therapist who understands the theory and practices will boldly answer your enquiries. Getting answers to your enquiries indicates that you may be in good hands. To be in good hands, you must also have a strong therapeutic alliance. A successful therapeutic relationship means that you feel comfortable opening up to your therapist, forming bond and trust. You also feel like you’re getting something out of the sessions.

 

CBT or classical psychoanalysis?

There are many various therapies to select from, which can be confusing. Do you want to talk and eager to find solutions to your problems? Choose a CBT therapist. If you merely want to unwind, traditional classical psychonalysts who are quiet most of the time because they are the blank screen are a better fit for you.

“Crying yields the best results”

Interestingly, my clients generally report that while they cried, they learnt the most from the sessions. It’s not all that horrible; I believe it’s better to let it out and cry than to bottle up your emotions, leaving everyone around you confused and wounded, bursting out with angry outbursts. Have you been having problems and thinking about them? I offer online video-call sessions; if that works for you, please text me 07505124933 or call Leona Sears at the same number.