I first met my pdoc in the hospital. I had overdosed and was hospitalized. I signed myself out but was required to stay 12 hours after that. I am sure it is to give the pdoc time to get in to see you. She came in and asked me to stay voluntarily. I said No.. and this makes no sense... that I had to get back to work. (I can suicide but can't miss work...makes no sense). She said that if I left she would call the police and they would be waiting at my house to take me to court for an involuntary commitment. Then when I am better I would have to wait until she had time to go back to court to release me. She asked again, will you stay? I said, "Yes". I liked her style. She was direct and straight with me. When I got out of the hospital I set up my intake appointment with her.

You don't have to come in knowing everything you are going to say. Pdocs are good at interviewing. He or she will ask open-ended questions and guide you through your story. It can be helpful, however, to write up what you are experiencing and anything you want to make sure you tell her/him and take it with you. Since you are particularly shy about talking to people, giving the pdoc the list could help with moving the conversation on.