[BashfulBear]

Turns out I'm seeing two (possibly even three) new Ts consecutively tomorrow, and my anxiety's through the roof right now.. I've been sick numerous times already, and I'm still feeling incredibly nauseous. Bleurgh!

I'd really appreciate any positive wishes right now, because, well.. you know that gloomy feeling you get in the pit of your stomach? Yeah, I have that. What if none of them like me?!

Pocket riders (that's what you guys call it, right?) are more than welcome - the more the merrier - I could do with some lucky charms and calming forces! We're kicking off at midday (UK time), and continuing into late afternoon.. it's going to be one hell of a ride!


I've also finalised my list of questions to take, so I thought I'd just share them with you below - feedback is more than welcome! Thank you so much to everyone who helped me yesterday!

BB's List of Questions:

1. I saw you have a list of areas of counseling you deal with, but do you have a particular area of specialty?

2. Have you had much experience with, or seen a lot of clients with issues or concerns similar to my own? How long do you typically see these clients, would it be more short-term or long-term? (Possibly even ask about the - perceived - success rates..)

3. With regard to treatment, do you form a plan with goals, or take a more random approach? When and how would we evaluate my progress?

4. Would we have regular standing appointments, or schedule as we go?

5. What is your cancelation policy if I’m unable to attend a session for any reason?

6. How are cancelations on your part handled (i.e. if you’re ill, have a personal matter to attend to, etc.)?

7. What are your confidentiality policies? If I asked at any time, could I read any notes you’ve made about me?

8. What are your boundaries with regard to contact outside of sessions (e.g. phone calls, e-mails, etc.)? Are you reachable in the event of a crisis/emergency, or do you have a different protocol in these situations (e.g. calling a helpline)? I’m not overly concerned with the answer, but I’d really appreciate knowing up-front.

9. Where do you stand with regard to touch? After a hurtful experience, I’d just like to be clear on what to expect from the offset.

10. Ultimately, why do you feel you could help me specifically, what qualifies you to be my therapist?

11. Can you think of anything more that I should be asking or considering?

-- I know I'll likely only end up asking 2 or 3 of these, but it feels nice to be prepared and have options!


.

[WikidPissah]

that list should be published Very good. Godspeed!

[SeaSalt]

Best of luck, Bear!

[sittingatwatersedge]

every last one of these questions is a winner, I hope you don't leave any out. Especially #11, that is exceptional.

good luck!!!!

[lostmyway21]

Good luck!!!!

[WikidPissah]

oops...missed the pocket rider request!

GERONIMO!!! (jumps into pocket)

[Lavender*]

Good Luck!

[sixtimes]

Good Luck!

[tkdgirl]

I hope your sessions go well and you are able to ask all the questions you want to.

[rainbow8]

If it's not too late, I'd love to help out and be a pocket-rider!! I loved your questions, too.

GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!

wishing all the best of everything you hope for tomorrow and finding a counselor who is what you need♥

[Silent_tsol]

Wow that list is really good. I would have a written copy with me so I could remember to ask them - says the girl who didn't ask ANYTHING during the first appointment

Jumping in and bringing some lucky charms cereal - anyone have a spoon?

[pbutton]

Good luck!

[critterlady]

Wow, Bear, that's an excellent list! I wish I'd had it along when I was talking to prospective therapists.

I hope you find someone you click with very soon.

[SoupDragon]

Yes I agree - that is a super list of questions - room for me in your pocket? Soup

[Towanda]

Best of luck tomorrow. I'll jump in and ride along too

[BashfulBear]

Thank you everyone!

Originally Posted by Silent_tsol

Wow that list is really good. I would have a written copy with me so I could remember to ask them - says the girl who didn't ask ANYTHING during the first appointment

Jumping in and bringing some lucky charms cereal - anyone have a spoon?

Aw, haha don't worry - I didn't think of anything to ask T1 or T2 either, this will be a first for me!

Hehe, promise not to let me eat any of those though, I think that'd be asking for trouble with my queasy stomach, ick! I should take you all for a treat afterwards though - ice cream for dinner, anyone?

Originally Posted by SoupDragon

Yes I agree - that is a super list of questions - room for me in your pocket? Soup

Always room for you, Soup! Excited to have you on board!

I'm definitely coming along! "Is that a flightless bird with hairy feathers in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?"

And I agree, that is an excellent list.

[BashfulBear]

Just checked my e-mails quickly, and there's one from one of the new T's..

'Dear Bear
Just to say I look forward to meeting you tomorrow (Tuesday) at 12 noon.
Kind regards
K'

Eeep, I really am a bundle of nerves!!!

K, if you're here reading this, and you sent that because you figured out who I am, that's not cool and you'd better tell me tomorrow! *extreme paranoia*

[confuseduk]

Good luck and best wishes for tomorrow

[adel34]

Hi BB,
I'll certainly be thinking of you tomorrow. It sounds like you have a great list of questions. Hopefully you can find the right person for you.

[Bill3]

Good luck!

[Chopin99]

Best wishes, dear. I hope you find the therapist of your dreams (if there is a such)! I'll hop in your pocket (it's getting crowded in here...hey...who elbowed me ).

Great questions!!

wow that is a GOOD list of questions!

I'll be a pocket rider for ya!

I'm seeing a new therapist tomorrow too and I have a really good feeling about him. He sounded so kind in his emails and he actually already looked at my blog!!

[rainbow_rose]

i'll ride along too.

wow... it's crowded. *squeezes in*