Tomorrow I'm going to a psychologist for the first time any tips?

Question

I have been diagnosed with depresion by my doctor.

Answer 1

You'll probably leave and realize you didn't say something you wanted to, or don't understand something you heard that you felt you understood while you were there. No worries, just go back for another appointment, you learn more and more each time. I keep a small journal in which I write notes down in the parking lot after each appointment, so I don't forget the hopeful feelings I had during the appointment. I write notes about thing to bring up next time when they come up in between appts. and I write notes during the appt. sometimes when the therapist says something I think sounds great and I might need to repeat to myself in the heat of the moment. When I'm down, I thumb thru my notes in my journal and look for answers or hope that I don't come up with on my own.

Answer 2

If you decide to go on any medication, always stay on the Lowest milligram strength of the meds he or she prescribes. If you don't you'll bbe dealing with alot of cloudiness, which will make you Very spacey and will impair your judgement/decision making skill. And also receive alot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which provides the self coping strategies and skills necessary. Some good authors that offer such skills are Dr. Andrew Weil, Thubten Chodron(author of "Working with Anger") and especially Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn PhD.
Check out & buy some books by these authors.
Amazon.com has many of these books, starting at only $3.70

Good Question, THANK YOU !!!

Answer 3

Always be honest. RELAX! If you have any problems with the psychologist or you don't feel comfortable with him, try to discuss your situation with him. If he still makes you uncomfortable after several sessions, then I would recommend you talking to the doctor who diagnosed the depression. Psychologists can be funny and interesting. Hope you have a good one. Luck!

Answer 4

A psychologist is a professional, remember that. You should hold nothing back & talk along with the psychologist's prompters. Your psychologist will probably spend the first visit letting you get to know them, as it will make you more confortable in following meetings. Good luck.

Answer 5

What everybody said here (with the possible exception of the baby powder guy) is good.

And remember, the psychologist isn't allowed to reveal what you said in session to anyone.

Answer 6

the best advice for going to see a pyschologist is to be honest and tell them exactly how things are. dont make any thing up. cuz what's the point? a psychologist is there to help you out in your problems and they will most likely understand you better than most ppl.
Remember to be honest.

Answer 7

Relax. Look at it as finally getting some peace in your mind. The best thing you could do for yourself is to make sure you ask questions, if there is something you don't understand. Especially if you are prescribed medication. Ask about how it works, any side affects, etc.

Answer 8

The first visit is usually filled with alot of history type questions/info. Take your goals for therapy or take something written with what you would like to accomplish. They will ask you.

Answer 9

Remeber to lie on his couch, you dont get the best results sitting up straight

Answer 10

Just be open. THere is nothing to be afraid of. They are there to help you. And if you are open and honest with them, they will. Dont hold anything back. I guarantee you'll feel much better!