what happens at first visit to a psychiatrist team?

[123Anonymous123]

The letter says the appointment can take up to 1 hour. What will happen?

I have been depressed and anxious forever many years and tried many drugs and CBT a few times. Nothing has helped i have no life

I think I'm quite well informed and I have some ideas about what treatments I would like to try. Are they likely to be open to suggestions and sensible discussion (like a GP) or do they operate a on a 'do as you're told' policy?

I am very anxious about this. I'm worried they won't be able to help or will just take me off valium which is addictive but does at least help a bit.

My first lasted about ten minutes. He asked what medication I was on, if I was sleeping/eating/concentrating/hearingvoices etc and then gave me a prescription of new medication. It was very straightforward.

in and out in 10 minutes doesn't sound very thorough

They'd generally ask what type of symptoms you are currently struggling with. They'd explore why different treatments had worked/or not.
They're generally pretty good about listening to people's own views on what type of treatment they'd like, but that might be restricted according to what is available.
They won't necessarily automatically stop the Valium, but might discuss other alternatives with you.
Remember it's only recommendations not orders, and they are there to help you get better.

Hope it goes well.