[izzyfg2000]

What is therapy like? From when you're waiting, to being asked the questions? Like what was the feeling of having your very first session? I'm visiting a T soon, and im just really nervous. Sorry if im asking a ton of questions, i tend to do that when im nervous.

[purplemystery]

I'll share a metaphor I've heard recently about therapy. Therapy is about examining the journey of life. A therapist is an expert or guide on this expedition and is good at it because he/she has been on many expeditions before, even if the territory is new. Yet the client knows the particular "land" much better. You and your therapist are going through this expedition to explore your life and your mind. You are working together as a team, each with something valuable and important to offer.

In terms of the first session, it was awkward and weird for me. My T asked a ton of questions as part of the "intake." They try to get a good feel for your history, and what issues you're currently going through. I remember thinking that I wasn't sure how much to reveal on the first day, or if what I was saying was the kind of thing she wanted to hear. It's also different from a normal conversation because the focus is entirely on you and, depending on the T, he or she may be quiet at some moments to encourage you to keep talking. Though it was uncomfortable in the very beginning, I quickly adjusted and came to feel very understood and accepted. To me, therapy is like having a safe place to say whatever you're thinking, and knowing that you will be accepted.

Good luck on your first visit! It can be anxiety-provoking, but I think it's worth it for the growth involved!

[wotchermuggle]

The best and worst thing you'll go through.

Do you know what type if therapy you'll be in? Some types will badger you with questions and others will let you talk at your own pace.

[someone321]

I agree with wotchermuggle - it really depends on the type of therapy... At the beginning of my first session I got some information like the length of the session, the price, and that my T suggests to meet few times before we would decide if I need it, what kind of therapy I want, if with him etc... Then he asked why I came, he said that I have to be prepared that the therapy will take plenty of time... He asked me to tell something about me, he said that he knows only this what I tell him so if I tell him more about myself then he knows more (yeah I know, pretty obvious)... Thus, my T does not ask many questions (maybe only like: do you have siblings, are you married), but I know that some Ts are more "interactive"... Just be prepared that your T will want to know why you come to T and if you are more honest then T can understand you better... Ts are not the God, they cannot read in our minds (fortunately )

Good luck