Share Your Experience

[Adam]

I've noticed that alot of people are posting in Mental Health asking about psychologists, sessions etc. and what to expect.

This thread is for anybody and everybody to Share Your Experience of the Mental Health Service.

Tell us:

- How did you get help?
- What happened on your first appointment?
- How often are / were your appointments?
- How long did they last?
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

[Stephanie]

- How did you get help?

After lots of trying. Firstly, I told my parent's I thought I was depressed, they laughed it off for a couple of years but then they eventually gave in and took me to see someone. First, I saw my school counsellor who told me to see my doctor, who referred me to a counsellor, who then referred me to CAMHS. It took quite a while

- What happened on your first appointment?

I'll go for the CAMHS appointment. They asked me lots of questions about different things. It was hard, but we worked through them. We talked about family background, self harm, sucidal ideation, how I feel in certain situations. We also went through many simple 'yes/no' questions.

- How often are / were your appointments?

N/A

- How long did they last?

Approximately one hour.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

It's not as bad as you think. I work myself up all day before the appointment, cry and make a fuss, rehearsing what i'm going to say in my head, then I go in and I realise the that I shouldn't have bothered.
You have to think about it logically, what's the worst that could happen? Nothing to bad, eh? Think of it that way. Remember that you are in control. You don't have to answer anything you don't want to and the counsellor/psychologist/psychiatrist/doctor will understand that you're going to be worried, they will not rush you and will want you to feel as comfortable as possible. Tell them how you're feeling, it may make you feel better to actually tell them that you're scared, I know that helped me a little bit. Like most things, you'll worry about it because it's something new and unknown but by the end, you should realise it's not that bad. You're going there to get help and support. It's a positive thing that you're there.

[Emzy]

- How did you get help?
I saw a doctor as I was always tired, upset and stuff. I thought it was my periods but it clearly wasn't. She reffered me to a clinic for under 20s with "mental health" issues.

- What happened on your first appointment?
I had to explain my feelings, talk about family etc. It wasn't horrible at all, people make it out to be something it isn't. It helps you clear your mind, we had a laugh too, this made it easier to talk about my problems.

- How often are / were your appointments?
Thursdays, but I'm attending evening classes to help with my Anxiety now.

- How long did they last?
Around 1-2 hours.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
Don't worry, they're nice as hell & they're there to help, don't think they'll sit there and judge you because you have problems. Just keep a positive mind even though it is hard telling a complete stranger your problems.

[heart_of_yang]

i have form of autism that went undiagonosie until recenly living with what i had was difficult essiply sense i had no idea what was wrong with me. u c my didsorder/sydrome aspergers caused me 2 b a socail outcast sense ever sense the 1st grade. u c i had no socail skills and was very different so kids took upon themselves 2 laugh at me i lost many close friends because of it but i find having autism just makes me different i am certainly not lacking in the brains just the socail.

[emma17]

- How did you get help?
went to the local doctor then they advised me to go to a psychologist
- What happened on your first appointment?
i went in there with very low expectations but in the end it helps me a lot. I discussed a lot of the problems that were weighing me down and talked about my family friends etc
- How often are / were your appointments?
once every two weeks
- How long did they last?
an hour
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
i did not actually like the first psychologist i saw so i then changed to another one. I was very reluctant to go a second time but it was actually very helpful. i smiled afterwards and i must say i couldn't even remember the last time i smiled. just remember the psychologist has to be the right person for you

[Linz]

- How did you get help?

I didn't know what was wrong or why I was feeling the way I was, because I had episodes of emotionally unstability where it wasn't normal for a 7 year old. My parents put me in an "emergency" appointment one night when I freaked out and attempted to stab myself.

- What happened on your first appointment?

It was kind of like an interview really, my parents were there as well, considering how young I was, the therpist asked some quuestions about what was making me feel this way and if anything happened in particular to cause me to try to stab myself, but nothing did and I wasn't sure why my emotions were out of control myself.

- How often are / were your appointments?

I've been in therapy now for almost 11 years, and they fluctuated depending on what was going on in my life and how intense and how often my episodes occured at the time. Nowadays, I have once a week for one-on-one with my therapist, and group 4 times a week, with a meeting with my psychatrist at least once a month.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?


I would say to anyone looking into therapy, or even if they're being taken into i by their parents: try your best to not resist, IT JUST MAKES THE PROCESS FOR YOU TO GET FARTHER ALONG DOWN THE ROAD OF RECOVERY SO MUCH LONGER. Don't get me wrong, it's deffinitiely hard to express your feelings to a complete stranger, but jut starting off with simple things like what makes you frustrated or stressed instead of depressed and in a rage, will help build a relationship between you and your therapist so you can talk about things that really upset you. It could take weeks, maybe even a few months (on average for most people) for you to be able to trust the person you'd be talking to. The most important thing of all? BE PATIENT, and NEVER EVER give up on your recovery. It's normal to be anxious on your first oppointment with someone you haven't met, but remember, if you click with them, they could guide you into the peace of mind you want to be in.

[~CourageousSurvivor~]

- How did you get help?

I actually went to a therapist to get my father off my back because he was worried about me and by then I was worried about myself too.

- What happened on your first appointment?

The first appointment basically consisted of the therapist getting to know me; finding out my problems and talking to me a little bit about my childhood. It really wasn't until the second appointment that I got a feel for the therapist and determined that he was an okay person and I would be okay going to him.

- How often are / were your appointments?

At first they were only once a week but then when things got really really bad for me my therapist and I determined that twice a week might be better.

- How long did they last?

There were about fifty minutes. Sometimes he would go over and sometimes he would go under. It all depended on what type of mood I was in.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

It is always scary going to a counselor but try to be as open as possible. Also, it might take you a little time to find the right doctor. I went to my doctor for a while but I eventually decided to go to a different one and it took me a while to find the one I have now(the best therapist I have ever had actually). Anyways, no matter how long it takes you to find a therapist do not give up on finding the right one becuase he or she is out there.

Also, give the therapist you are seeing a chance to build your trust because that takes time as well. Don't ever give up on finding help.

[daina_aka_buffy_1989]

- How did you get help?
my parents took me to see a therapist before pre-k
- What happened on your first appointment?
I don't remember I was only 3 or 4 years old
- How often are your appointments?
it used to be every week, every two weeks, now its once a month
- How long did they last?
1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
Keep calm, be truthful, talk about everything and anything going on in your life

[SaveMe]

- How did you get help?
Around this time last year, after doing a bit of research I realized thefeelings I was feeling weren't normal, even though I was going through puberty. I told my mother, who just kept putting it off, and my dad simply thought I was "that age" After nearly around 7 months of convincing, mom finally realized I needed help and got me an appointment with my family doctor. He had refferred me to a counselor, but it would have been 4 months until they got back to us. One night I was rushed to the ER because mom had seen my legs, which I had torn apart. That was when I truly started getting help because they realized it wasn't to be put off any longer
- What happened on your first appointment?
My first appt. with my family doctor - He asked me some basic questions like how long I have been feeling this way. He prescribed me Zoloft and Ativane (spelling?) then he told me to come back weekly

Trip to the ER- After waiting and hour in the waiting room I was sent into a room with no windows, simply a door, bed and a chair. Yup the crazy room, fun right? A doctor came in, asked to see the cuts, asked me questions, then tried to keep me over night. After some convincing they decided to get me to come back in the morning and talk to a phyciatrist. When I came back, the physciatrist asked me a ton of questions, some I weren't sure why she was asking but there must have been a reason.

Counseling- this was probably the appointment I was mostscared of but it didn't turn out bad at all. Once again she asked lots of questions like "When did you first notice your symptoms, how often do they accur, do you ever have suicidal thoughts, etc. then they ask about you past, and if you aren't comfortable answering one of the questions, you don't have to

- How often are / were your appointments?
At first I had appointments with a counselor once a week, and with my family doctor every two weeks, and physiciatrist ever 3 weeks.
- How long did they last?
About an hour with the counselor and physiciatrist and 20 minutes with my family doctor
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

It's not half as bad as you think! They try their hardest to make you feel comfortable and won't make you do anything you don't want to. They show you there is light at the end of the tunnel and answer any questions you ask, don't be nervous, I'm sure most people are nervous before their first appointment but it really isn't that bad. If you have more questions, PM (:

[Dontdomornings92]

- How did you get help? I got help first through my guidance councilor at school and then I went to the doctor and I got referred to a therapist.

- What happened on your first appointment? We filled out lots of paper work and they asked me LOTS of questions such as, do you smoke, do you drink, are you pregnant...

- How often are / were your appointments? My appointments were every week.

- How long did they last? They didn't last very long (maybe a couple of months at the most) beacuse I didn't feel she was helping me very much, I was getting more help from my guidance councilor then I was from her and we were paying her a TON of money and I had to be pulled out of school once a week for the appointments and I was already having problems with my attendance that is why I was going to the therapist in the first place.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counselor / their first appointment? Don't be nervous, they are there to help. Its really not that bad, if you are really nervous you could even have your parent or a really close friend go with you to your first appointment. Just be ready to talk, you can't be shy to a therapist or you are never going to get anything done.

[YOUR.great.name]

-How did you get help?
I was talking to my school counselor and I was havig bizarre episodes of mania and depression. She told me that I should not worry too much. Until the day I told her I cut, that's when she reolized I needed help. So she called my mom and appointment was set with the school and my mom was told everything.
- What happened on your first appointment?
I came in very nervous. They started me off with a huge questionare. Lots of questions and I had to answer each one truthfuly. Then they asked me about my family issues and my friends. Then they asked me what I think is wrong and then they told me what they thought was wrong.
- How often are / were your appointments?
They are twice a week on a good week. On a bad week it would probably be four or five
- How long did they last?
They lasted an hour to an hour and a half again deprending on the week
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
Relax and be yourself. Answer everything they tell you truthfuly because if you don't, you are not cheating them, you are cheating yourself

[Magical Forest.]

- How did you get help?
I had a huge breakdown, my parents then phoned my GP who then phoned Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services.

- What happened on your first appointment?
With my GP, he asked me how I was feeling, how long i'd been feeling that way, why I felt the need to hurt myself.

With CAMHS, they did a full assessment on me. Asking me questions about my past, what could have triggered me feeling this way, how low I was feeling, how at risk to myself I was. They were basically just trying to find out what was wrong and how best to help me.

- How often are / were your appointments?
At first they were twice a week, but they've alternated from once a fortnight, but mostly has been once a week.

- How long did they last?
Each appointment has always supposed to have been an hour. But a lot of the time, especially recently, they tend to go over a bit.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
Be as honest as you can. Seriously, hiding things isn't going to do you any good. These people are there to help you and you have to accept that and let them in. Things can't get better unless you want them to and you co-operate. Yes it's going to be scary seeing these people, especially from the rumours you hear, but they really do know what they're doing, and can really make a positive difference on your life.

[.Brittany.]

- How did you get help?

I got help after a mental breakdown at school.. I was referred to a therapist


- What happened on your first appointment?

Pretty much, the therapist asked me how I was feeling, and explained what would happen while I was there, and went over the privacy policy with me.


- How often are / were your appointments?

Started off 2-3 times a week, then went to 1 time a week, then 1 every 2 weeks.


- How long did they last?

Usually an hour, but sometimes it would go over.


- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

Just be honest, they are there to help, and guide you into the right direction. My biggest regret is pretending I had gotten better so I could get out of it. I wish I was still there.

[i_am_me_again]

- How did you get help?

My parents thought I had OCD when I was 6, since then I have had therapy and medication and everything really. But the most recent was when I was 13

- What happened on your first appointment?

I dont know what happened when I was 6, but when I was 13 they made me assessed me, and were really chatty and generally nice therapists


- How often are / were your appointments?

My appointments from 13 up to the time I was hospitalized ranged from 3 times a week, to once a week. It all depended on my state of mind. Now, Im 24 I see someone twice a week whatever and however I feel


- How long did they last?

About 45 minutes before hospitlization and an hour now


- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

Different therapy works for different people, dont be scared to ask for a new therapist if you dont get along with one. And dont be scared. They are there to help you, not intimidate you. You dont have to say anything you dont want to, there is no pressure. And most of all, be yourself.

[Nutty Nat]

How did you get help?
well i have been to counselling 5 times well im on my 5th time now with my 5th counsellor,the first time i appeared not normal to the teachers and i was self harming and generally nt coping with a death so got referred by school,2nd and 3rd time was thru the doctor,4th time was a school counsellor,and the 5th is a college counsellor i got referred to her when i broke down in tears when we was having a discussion in college about different things.

What happened on your first appointment?
all my first appointments have been the same they discuss the confidentality rules with u and discuss why u think u there and what you want to get out of it.

How often are / were your appointments?
my appointments well it use to be 2 times a week now its once a week,then i get a phone call to my personal tutor at college if i dont turn up even if i had phoned the counsellor and told her i couldnt come for a valid reason,but this is only the case if u are reffered from a college tutor if you refer yourself then u dont get a phone call.

How long did they last?
an hour or hour and half in some cases for me.

What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
its not as bad as wat you think in all honesty they are lovely people and are there to help you so dont worry please.

[Penguin Queen]

- How did you get help?
My family became increasingly concerned about my eating and my moods, so they took me to the doctor, who referred me to CAHMS. It took about 6 weeks for the initial referral to go through. When I was in psychiatric hospital (I was admitted as an emergancy patient following an OD) I was referred to a service within CAHMS that specialises in 16-18 year olds with complex needs.
- What happened on your first appointment?
The first half my parents talked about why they had become concerned, and went through the last few years and what they thought was affecting my current behaviour, my parents then went back into the waiting room for 20 minutes and they therapist asked me about my view point on things, she then asked my parents back in.
- How often are / were your appointments?
Every week an individual session, and every other week a family one. I also go to a youth group every week run by CAHMS.
- How long did they last?
about an hour
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
Try and be as open and honest with them as possible, but don't worry if you struggle, it took me several months to even mention some of my issues.

[lost_soul]

- How did you get help?
My depression was getting way out of hand, so I went to the school counsellor to get myself help.

- What happened on your first appointment?
Well I was, of course, freaking out. But, I shouldn't have, because it was totally fine. My counsellor was great, really laid back and easy going, and best of all, he listened and gave me a safe space, for the first time in a long time. I walked out, glad to have gone to the appointment.

- How often are / were your appointments?
Usually once a week.

- How long did they last?
The length of a school period, which for me, is usually around 50 minutes.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
I know how scary it is, going to the first appointment, but honestly, it is so worth it and it's not nearly as scary as we all expect. It's the first step to getting help, and it's a great step and I promise that you'll be fine and once the appointment is over, you'll be wondering why you were so afraid to go.

[Sidhe.]

- How did you get help?
I told my mum about my self harm, and she said she'd get me some help. So she told my doctor, who referred me to a psychologist.

- What happened on your first appointment?
My mum and I went in, and the psychologist talked to us for a bit. She just asked the usual questions, just stuff about our family and why I wanted to see her, and explained the difference between a psychologist and psychiatrist and then told me all about her degrees (of which she had several).

- How often are / were your appointments?
They were going to be every two weeks or so, but I didn't go after the first one.

- How long did they last?
It was about an hour.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
It's not as scary as it sounds. Just go in with an open mind, and be ready to be honest. Don't expect instant results, but don't give up (even though I'm being a little hypocritical there ).

[mare]

- How did you get help?
took me awhile (2 years). after being told and seeing myself in a cycle of drugs alcohol and self medication i decided to take hold of the counseling an psychiatric treatment that my family offered to me.
- What happened on your first appointment?
i went in. i cried. i told what i could of my story. although i still wasnt sure exactly was my story and what "my story" even meant
- How often are / were your appointments?
once a week
- How long did they last?
theyr 45 min sessions and ive been taking them seriously and learning alot for about 6 months now
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
its not that bad i promise. nothing can leave the room and they wont judge you. They've heard plenty of stories and yours wont shock or scare them it will just make them want to help you that much more. and if your nervous as all heck in the waiting room as i was. just remember everyone else in there has a story. just like you. and your all there for help. no judgment.

[Total Light Storm]

I haven't really gotten much help yet. But I can tell you that after reading this thread, I feel less scared and nervous about going to see a therapist. I just have a couple of questions:
-Do parents have to go in during the first session?
-How do I explain my reasons for being in therapy when I don't really even know where to begin?
-What happens if I go the first time, and let's say a couple of times after and I don't let's say feel like I get along with the therapist or I feel kind of akward putting my trust in that person? Can I get a new therapist or will I have to keep the same person?
-How do they determine how long and often sessions should be? Some people have one hour sessions while others have other times and some people have them once a week, twice a week or every other week.
I'm just curious, is it wrong of me to have so many questions?

Sorry if this is sort of the wrong thread for this.

[ashleyellen1637]

- How did you get help?
- What happened on your first appointment?
- How often are / were your appointments?
- How long did they last?
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

im new to this site, so im not exactly sure if im replying to the post right, but here we go.

I got help by going to a doctor. I went to my regular pediatritian and They thought i seemed different than normal. i had been down for months and my mother called different places trying to get me help, considering shes dealt with the same issue (depression).

My first appointments they just asked for me to tell them about myself, try and get to know eachother, and talk about goals and what youd like to work on. it really wasnt as bad as i thought itd be..

at first they were only once every two weeks.. since then i went in programs where id go to school half a day, then a counseling program half a day, and now im in a program where even through the summer i have 4 hours of counseling and 2 hours of school(during the school year) monday through friday. Its a step below being admitted to a mental hospital. But it works for me, especially considering i have severe school anxiety.

I started 2 years ago and im still in them, so its different for everyone.


Its really not as bad as you may think. I promise you. It helps alot. Just try to keep your head held high, and if for some reason you dont feel after a few appointments that you dont click with your counseler, switch. its important you connect with them.

(:

[ashleyellen1637]

Originally Posted by cz123094

I haven't really gotten much help yet. But I can tell you that after reading this thread, I feel less scared and nervous about going to see a therapist. I just have a couple of questions:
-Do parents have to go in during the first session?
-How do I explain my reasons for being in therapy when I don't really even know where to begin?
-What happens if I go the first time, and let's say a couple of times after and I don't let's say feel like I get along with the therapist or I feel kind of akward putting my trust in that person? Can I get a new therapist or will I have to keep the same person?
-How do they determine how long and often sessions should be? Some people have one hour sessions while others have other times and some people have them once a week, twice a week or every other week.
I'm just curious, is it wrong of me to have so many questions?

Sorry if this is sort of the wrong thread for this.

1, no they do not. they can if you would like them to. The therapists usually let it be your call.
2, tell them you dont know where to begin. they may help by asking questions and such. (:
3, of course you can get a new therapist. its important you connect with your therapist.
4, after seeing the severity of your depression or your situation causing you to need therapy, they'll determine what they think would be best for you.

and no, its not wrong to have questions. when i first started, i wish i had a place like this to answer my questions for me. its not as bad as you may think. itll be okay (:

[CitizenErased]

I got help when I felt things had hit an all time low. My Psychosis and Depression really were stooping to quite low levels, so i felt that help was needed.

- What happened on your first appointment?

I went to see the School nurse and told her my thoughts. She was very understanding. But my doctors and parents did have to be called. I was then reffered to the STEP team (Specialist Team For Early Psychosis) and CAHMS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). Iv seen lots of different doctors and been to lots of different places, but I had an appointment once a week until they thought that my situation was serious enough to warrant In-Patient care in a specialist Psychiatric unit. After being discharged from there, Iv had 1 meeting a week for Psychosis, 1 a week with someone for my depression (CBT) and various other extra meetings.

They usually lasted 1 hour each, but my in patient care lasted about a month.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

Even though it may seem really daunting, and you may feel like you regret visiting someone, hang on in there. Even though its tough to start with, they will help you. They know how to make you better.

[Total Light Storm]

Okay, I'm reposting here because I have started therapy and thought I'd add my experience here...

- How did you get help?
I got an appointment at a counseling center in my area that my GP refered me to.
- What happened on your first appointment?
A family member went in with me for a little bit to discuss confidentiality and then I spent time alone with the therapist and she asked me questions and we talked a bit.
- How often are / were your appointments?
They are once a week.
- How long did they last?
About an hour, now they are fourty-five minutes though sometimes I go over the time.
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
I know at first it might be scary to go in there and begin talking with someone, but it really does feel nice to get what's going in your life and bothering you off your chest and they won't judge you, they'll just do there best to understand and help you. They are really nice people and all they want to do is make your life better and help you get through and cope with what's going on. If at first you are awkward, that's okay, I was really nervous at first, but now that I've gone a few times, I'm not as nervous going in there, it's still hard to talk to the therapist a little bit, but each time I go, I feel as though I'm getting comfortable with opening up to her. It's something that takes time and you have to feel as though you can trust the person and that takes time as well, it's okay if you don't want to answer some questions, they won't force you, they will definitely understand.

[LittleFish]

- How did you get help?

My mom set me up with a counselor after I came into her room having an anxiety attack one night. It wasn't really my choice, but I went along with it willingly.

- What happened on your first appointment?

Mostly she just asked me why I was there and got to know me. We didn't get into anything heavy or serious. Before I left, she gave me a few tips on coping with stress and anxiety. That was about it.

- How often are / were your appointments?

They used to be like once a month because of my dad's work schedule. Now we're trying to do them every other week.

- How long did they last?

They usually last about an hour, sometimes longer if necessary.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?

It's not as bad as it sounds. Honestly. They are not going to sit there and make you tell them all of your secrets. And because of confidentiality laws, they can't tell ANYONE anything you tell them unless they believe you're a danger to yourself or other people. This is going to sound mean, but you just have to suck it up and get it over with. Let them ask the questions, and answer if you feel comfortable. They aren't going to pressure you to tell them everything, and they understand it isn't easy to talk about some things. It may not be pleasant to talk about them, but then, whatever you're going there for probably isn't too pleasant either. Just show up for the appointment, answer as many questions as you can, be honest, and you'll be okay.

[abreacti0n]

First I started to talk to a counseller at school, then we decided that we needed more and so I started going to a Clinical Psychologist

She was very nice the first time, we just started to get to know each other, and now I'm actally looking forward for the next appointment.

The appointments are each week .. and they last an hour.

It's not as bad as it looks .. it was actually fun, I remember I was terrified of going but she's just a human who will help you. You really don't need to be scared ! xx

[Thirteen]

How did you get help?
The Stress Counselor at the Employment Help Centre kind of said I had to, because she couldn't do anything else for me.

What happened on your first appointment?
With the doctor: She asked me questions about moods, diet, and other things to see if it was a physical issue or mental.

With the psychiatrist: She asked me A LOT of questions, some very personal. My boyfriend was there with me through it, so having someone there to support me was very helpful. He was asked some questions as well, with my permission of course. Then she called me in for another appointment to work on diagnosis.

How often are / were your appointments?
Whenever she's free. I haven't started any official treatment, we're still in the diagnosis process.

How long did they last?
1 hour, or 1 1/2 hours, depending.

What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment? Not going to lie, it's nerve-racking. But make sure to be very open about your problems, bring someone with you to support you if you feel really nervous, and well, don't disclose crucial information. The likelihood of being thrown in the psychiatric hospital (if that's your main concern) is low, as long as you're not seen as a major threat to yourself or others.

[inthebelljar]

I've been to two different therapists, but one was when I was 10, so I'll fill this out with my newer information.

- How did you get help?
I was already seeing a psychiatrist who recommended that therapy would be helpful. I resisted for a long time (I wanted to feel strong) but I'm glad I finally gave in. I just told my mom that my psychiatrist was "making" me get one.

- What happened on your first appointment?
I filled out a questionnaire about typical things (cutting, suicide, depression,etc). She then asked me about my answers, and we went from there.

- How often are / were your appointments?
Every week.

- How long did they last?
One hour.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
It's good to at least make an effort. There's only so much they can do if you're not willing to help. You need to be honest. If you don't feel a "click" after a few sessions, maybe try to find a different therapist. Finding the right one is key to treatment.

[sassygurlone]

How did you get help:
Well I was kind of forced into help. But it was a good thing.

What happened at the first appointment:
Well I've had many first appointments as I've had many therapists and many case managers. But what usually happens is they ask a lot of questions and try to get to know a little bit about you. They go over confidentiality and what not.

How often:
It really depends on how I am doing. When I first began therapy 7 years ago it was once a week for individual therapy and once a week for group. Then it was twice a week for individual therapy, once a week for group and twice a week with my case manager where my family was included but once they realized that my family being involved only made things worse it my case manager came to see me alone. Now its twice a week for indvidual therapy, once a week for group and three times a week with my case manager. It usually increases after a hospitalization.

How long:
Individual lasts anywhere from an hour to an hour and 10 minutes. Group lasts 1hr and 30 mins. My meetings with my case manager can last anywhere from a half hour to all day long. And like I said I have been in treatment for 7 years and because of the disorders I have I will be in treatment my entire life, but that is not the case for everyone.

Advice:
It may seem scary at first but with the right therapist or psychiatrist its a very safe place to be. Be honest. If you find that the therapist/psychiatrist you start out with isn't right for you switch, its important for you to feel comfortable with them.

[GrimZanna]

- How did you get help?
I was in really bad shape and my parents decided I needed a psychologist
- What happened on your first appointment?
I started talking about my problems and kept crying
- How often are / were your appointments?
I don't remember... I going to start seeing one soon, though.
- How long did they last?
Until I moved to a different state... I only saw her for a year.
- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment?
It's not bad, and psychologists are helpful and kind You don't have to tell them anything you don't want to, and they won't tell your parents anything you ask them not to.

[Dez]

How did you get help?
I wrote a note to my guidance counselor explaining my problems with self harm and such, and at first my parents only grounded me, but then after a bit more of talking to my guidance counselor she and the school psychologist had a meeting with my parents and my guidance counselor told me that if they still refused to take me she'd keep calling them. So my parents gave in and took me.

- What happened on your first appointment?
Well on my first appointment it was the intake so my mother was in the room, so I was nervous and pretty vague with my answers. My first appointment alone I stated my fear about my mother threatening to put me inpatient and I cried. I liked her a lot more than I thought I would during the intake. She started helping almost immediately really, since she offered me someone unbiased to vent to. She also started helping me with my LGBT issues.

- How often are / were your appointments?
They're once a week.

- How long did they last?
I'm still going since I've only recently started going. The appointments themselves only last about half an hour.

- What advice can you give to anybody that is anxious about visiting a counsellor / their first appointment? Just be honest with them. They're there to help you. They're just people who actually DO want to help you, that's why they got that job. Besides, it will feel great having someone to vent to. Don't be nervous, they are usually really nice, and if you don't find yourself "clicking" with them after a few appointments, change counsellors. They are actually really wonderful people and I have lots of respect for them.