[Caab]

I've chosen a new psychologist. I've researched her.

But I can't seem to make the call. I don't know why

It's been weeks!!

Any ideas???

[RTerroni]

Just slow down and take your time and call if you really want her as you psychologist.

[tooski]

Remember that going to a first appt with a T does not mean you have to make a lifetime commitment.

Consider it an "interview" and a chance to see what she's like. Then you can decide if you want to schedule another session. Remember that you have power and the choice of whether to go - or continue - is always yours.

[BlessedRhiannon]

It took me almost 3 weeks to make the call, and I ended up emailing her instead.

Practice calling...just pick up the phone and think about calling, then set it down. Dial just a few numbers, then hang up. Dial the whole number and hang up. Work your way up to actually calling and talking, if you need to. Or, if the T has an email, send an email

[purplemystery]

The hardest part is convincing yourself to do it. I suggest writing down what you want to say so that you will have something to rely on if you're really nervous on the phone.

[Hopelesspoppy]

Originally Posted by Caab

I've chosen a new psychologist. I've researched her.

But I can't seem to make the call. I don't know why

It's been weeks!!

Any ideas???

I know. Afraid of how your "first impression" will be received, taking a step towards an unknown, acknowledging to a total stranger that you need help. All natural. Now go ahead and make the call. Like me, you are intellectualizing yourself into paralysis!

[Caab]

Oh thank you! Such good ideas. And really practically. Yes lol I am so intellectualising everything. I do it a lot. I love me some over thinking and over analysing

Ok so:

Think about what I actually want to say and jot it down

Check if she has an email

Pretend to call a couple of times to hear myself say everything and take the scary away

Bite the bullet and do it !!!!!

Ok deep breath

[Wren_]

I remember awhile back someone else was having trouble making the initial call and it helped knowing we were behind them ... maybe that can help somehow as well ... knowing you have support coming your way from all over the world

[Caab]

Tiger girl actually yes!!!

I was so shocked to find people had replied and offered help. I was thinking

hmm these guys don't really even know me and still think I'm worth the effort of a reply. Maybe I should listen to THEM and not my head telling me to not be so self indulgent and attention seeking getting more professional help because that's for people with 'real' problems which I don't have yada yada yada. My head is so mean to me

Anyways yes it helps knowing there's people behind me. Especially people who understand how hard it can be. And all the conflict and feeling undeserving of help.

[Victoria'smom]

I've had friends call saying they are me to set up appointments at times, when I can't.

[A Red Panda]

I have issues with the phone. Like.. any phone call. Like MM, I've had people call and make appointments for me (hair appointments and whatnot... I once had someone call back for me when I'd gotten a call for an interview!)

I frequently call and hang up. Even when I'm resigned to leave a message.. I call and hang up a few times before I get through to actually letting the message run the whole way.

And I email if it's possible. That's always my first route.

[Caab]

Hi guys, so my boyfriend contacted a psychiatrist directly about me. I'm relieved to say the least. Hopefully she'll get in touch ASAP.

I used to watch my phone ring, horrified. And then when it stopped ringing I'd be like PHEWWWW

[Wren_]

that's great ... I hope you hear back very soon!

will you be able to answer if it rings?