You lost your job during this pandemic. Your loved one got COVID positive. Your savings started to run out. Perhaps, you are already suffering from anxiety.
According to World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 264 million people suffered from depression in 2020 alone, making it one of the leading causes of disability across the globe.
If you are experiencing anxiety lately and do not know how to deal with it, giving a counseling session a try is perfect.
But since you are overwhelmed by everything, there is nothing to worry about. It is all right and normal.
Below, we combine some proactive steps you could do to lessen the pressure. We hope this guide helps you from start to finish. Let’s get started!
Reward Yourself for Opening Up
Sharing what you are going through to a therapist takes some courage. So, congratulations on finally meeting a specialist! You really did a great job!
Maybe, you are worried about how your counseling session would be. But it does not matter. What’s important is that you take the first step to find an experienced and capable therapist.
Although it may not be necessary at the moment, you deserve a reward for that achievement when the right time comes and when you are ready.
While there are many things that will happen soon, taking the first step is the hardest part of the process.
There is also no pressure. Take your time. The path to recovery will not be instant, and a therapist will never leave you behind!
Raise Your Queries
Whether you have met a therapist before or it is your first time, you always feel afraid to ask questions. Do not feel that way. There is nothing wrong with asking the professional any question that runs in your mind before your first session starts.
What can I expect during the counseling session? What result can I feel or experience after the first session? What is your style in counseling? How long is the session? What is your strategy to counseling? Are you more guiding or directive?
These are some questions you can ask a therapist. But be courteous and professional at the same time.
Although therapists are trained to handle mad clients, be kind to achieve and maintain a good rapport.
Everything is Confidential
You are probably worried if your personal details will be disclosed to third parties. Do not think and feel that way.
Any therapist keeps your personal information highly confidential, so there is nothing to be afraid of.
The US government also implements the strictest federal privacy regulations. That is why your personal details are safe.
Therapists cannot disclose your information without your permission.
However, if the risks of harming yourself or others are high, these specialists can release your details to authorities or other people who can help.
But be careful when selecting a therapist. Do not entrust your counseling needs to someone you do not know well. Always direct your attention to a professional with in-depth experience. It is all right if the services might be costly. What matters is your fast recovery.
Identify the Goals You Want to Achieve
Therapists can help you recover from depression. But you also need to help yourself for a better and faster result.
Think of what you want to accomplish in your counseling session. Remember that a person with no goal is like a boat without a destination.
Before the counseling session begins, reflect on your objectives ahead of time. It does not need to be big. Start from what you can accomplish.
Then, do not forget to share your goals to a therapist.
If you have tried thinking of an objective but ended up failing, do not worry! The therapist of your choice will come to your rescue.
You just have to be open and transparent.
Take Time Off Before or Even After the Session
“It is important to put a time cushion around your counseling session,” says Dr. Claudia Luiz, a psychoanalyst.
“If possible, take time off before or even after the counseling so that you can be wary of your thoughts,” she adds.
Let’s be honest! Opening up to someone you have never met before is overwhelming and stressful. You might feel more intense emotions, resulting in tensions.
Take a deep breath and try to relax. A therapist is someone that can guide you throughout your journey so you do not have to feel worried.
Also, do not forget to stay hydrated. You could bring a bottle of water if the need arises.
Do Not Expect Too High
Never expect too much during the first counseling session. Keep in mind that it will revolve around clerical stuff.
While you get to know your counselor, your therapist is no exception. He will also get to know you as a client.
He will also have questions in mind. So, do not be surprised when he asks you questions, too.
This is the time you need to be honest and straightforward.
It is also the right chance for you to open up or raise your concerns. Therefore, do not lose this opportunity. Plus, the therapist will orient you about what will happen in the upcoming sessions.
Do Not Forget the Fact that Your Counselor is Always At Your Side to Help
Some patients would think their counselor would expose their weaknesses, mistakes, and frailties.
If you think the same way at the moment, do not forget the fact that a therapist will remain at your side to help you recover from depression.
Remember they have studied for years to be a therapist. Some also continue their professional education by taking up their masters or Ph.D. to provide the best service their clients deserve.
If you are afraid and pressured, that feeling will not be as strong as time goes by.
Are you ready to speak with or meet a therapist? If yes, there is no need to look further than Talkspace!
If you haven’t heard about it before, there are Talkspace reviews you could read and use to make a quick, reliable, and confident decision.
We wish for your fastest recovery!