Starting therapy is an important moment in our lives, it can become a watershed. Thus, it is a liminal stage, a threshold where we are no longer entirely what we were, because I already realized that there is a problem, but we are not yet what we want to become.
Starting therapy is an act of autonomy, therefore you have every right to decide the particularities of a therapeutic space that is suitable for you.
What to consider before going to my first therapy session?
There is no prior preparation as such, as the central point of the work is you, attending your session is enough. However, being clear about certain issues that you want to work on, objectives and symptoms that you have or are presenting can be very useful for both parties.
Having your medical history at hand in your mind or notes also speeds up the process.
Remembering when was the last time you attended therapy, if you have attended, how long other processes have lasted, reasons for ending them, context in which they occurred and if you take or have taken medication are basic points to consider.
Try to be as clear as possible about your expectations of the process.
What to take into account when choosing my therapist?
Even before making your first appointment, I recommend making a list of the important points that you are looking for in a therapist or psychologist. These points should be aligned with your specific needs and your value system. For example, that they are an ally for the LGTBIQ+ community, that they are part of a certain ethnic group or if they practice a particular religion/faith.
Even being male or female or a non-binary person can be quite relevant. Think about which points are non-negotiable for you, if any.
The credentials of the mental health professional at this point are important. Perhaps you require that your therapist is a specialist in certain topics that correspond to you or that he/she has extensive experience in managing a particular symptom. Don't be afraid to ask about their professional background and approach.
But what if I don't feel comfortable with the psychologist or therapist?
Nothing is set in stone. Most mental health professionals will offer you an initial consultation in which both parties assess whether they are compatible to work together or not.
Remember that, above all, the person in front of you is a professional who knows how to handle these situations. After all, going to therapy is about creating healthier and more honest relationships so you can talk openly if you don't feel like it's the right thing for you.
I have tried trying with many mental health professionals and none of them work for me
It often happens that consciously we have all the desire and willingness to start therapy, but our unconscious may not be on the same page. Give yourself the task of finding out if that space was not the right one for you or, if you are sabotaging yourself, it can prevent you from cancelling something that could be an opportunity.
How does it feel to find the right fit?
While it is perfectly normal to feel anxious at first contact, this feeling should fade away as we relax.
The main objective of a therapist is that our patient feels comfortable enough to express himself/herself at ease. Generating a judgment-free space where, from attentive and professional listening, making interventions that are relevant to the client is a skill that is forged with knowledge and experience.
Feeling seen, from a professional look without judgments that knows when to confront you and when to be more compassionate is a great indicator of professional compatibility.
Listen to your own voice and trust what you feel and think. If you pay attention to these guidelines, you will most likely be able to recognize when you have arrived at your sanctuary.
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