I start counselling for the first time ever in two hours - what to expect?

[DarkSideofLaLune]

Am very nervous.

What if I don't gel with the therapist? (picked randomly from CBT website).

What if I am unable to open up?

What does a first session usually entail? Do you give them a phone book length list of your issues?!

Joking aside, I know this is something I need to do and really want to get the most out of it that I can. Just very nervous.

Anyone got advice or experience to share? Did it work for you?

I've had counselling, but not CBT. It was solution focused therapy and I found it very helpful - I had two sets, the second for an extension/complication of the issue for which I had the first set. It helped me clear my head and have confidence in my own decisions.

In my case we started with an assessment of my mental state to get picture of where I was - this was repeated at the beginning of each session and it was really interesting to see how my stress and depression ratings dropped as we went through the process.

If you don't gel with your counsellor, you change. It really has to be that simple. They shouldn't take it personally if they are a professional.

One thing I will say about counselling: it isn't a magic bullet. You have to take the session home with you, reflect and make changes. It can also bring up some difficult feelings, so be prepared for that.

Thank you pointy.

I don't know what exact type of counselling it will be if it goes well and decide to keep seeing this person. She does counselling, CBT and psychotherapy (I think).

I know that the onus is on me to actually make the changes I need to but I feel like I need some professional input and guidance in order to be able to do so.

Can't keep repeating the behaviours that are currently dragging me down.

I think you have to be prepared to put yourself in their hands. If you try to limit the direction they're guiding you then they cannot do their job. Also, from what I have learned it's never the thing you think that is the cause of a problem, they have to help you peel your onion skins back.