Preparing to meet the psychologist for the first time.
We know it takes courage to seek help.
Our job is to be helpful and we promise to do our best to make that happen.
The first session is about getting to know each other so that you can say more about what brings you to us. Normally, you will be met by the psychologist who will be working with you.
We ask questions about your life story and what it was that made you decide to seek help.
It is a good idea for you to try to remember what it was that made you feel the need to seek help just now. We ask questions about family, friends, education and try to get an understanding of how you have experienced life so far.
Listening to Your Story
You might question why a psychologist is interested in aspects of your life that seem unrelated to your current problems.
However, understanding the stories and relationships that have shaped your life is crucial. This helps us uncover patterns in how you manage time, confront challenges, handle daily tasks, and interact with those you care about, as well as with acquaintances and others you encounter on a more casual basis. This comprehensive view can reveal significant insights into your character and coping styles.
You do not have to answer questions that are too difficult to talk about and we will always respect that.
Your initial appointment may last up to two hours, including a short break. At the end of the session, the psychologist will provide feedback and discuss what was explored during the session. Progress and collaboration have a good start when there is an agreed understanding of what needs attention. You have to feel comfortable, understood and supported. Our goal is for you to leave that first session with confidence in the psychologist and the preliminary plan arrived at.