Seeing a psychologist for the first time can be daunting

The first session focuses on information gathering. I’ll ask questions to learn more about your issue, your background and your general health. We’ll build a working relationship, and you’ll learn more about how therapy works.

I’ll outline the nuts and bolts of working together, including your recommended treatment and its duration. We’ll set expectations of each other and you can figure out if I’m the right fit for you.

You are the project manager of your own recovery. By taking charge (instead of waiting to be ‘fixed’) you are more likely to get a better outcome from seeing a psychologist.

Consequently, I act as a guide, offering support as you explore different ways of living and behaving. Instead of me telling you what to do, I suggest things to try or different ways of thinking. You get the support, guidance and structure you need to discover solutions that feel right to you.

It’s understandable that you feel uncertain, especially if you have never worked with a psychologist before. Many people worry that the treatment won’t work or that they are unfixable in some way.

You may be concerned that you’ll be forced to disclose private secrets, or talk about people or life events you’d rather not face. Others worry that they’ll make a financial investment in treatment, without assurance of the desired outcome.

Whatever your concern, let me reassure you that you are stepping into a safe space. Your professional treatment will be based on proven strategies and methodologies, so there’s no reason why it won’t be effective for you. I take a client-led approach, so we won’t do or discuss anything you don’t agree with, or feel uncomfortable about.

One alternative to seeing a psychologist is taking a DIY approach. There are plenty of books, podcasts and online resources that may be helpful in guiding your behaviour change. But often, the self-treatment options can only go so far, possibly because:

• you have no one to keep you accountable
• you may be exploring techniques not suited to your symptoms
• you may be putting a bandaid over a broken leg — that is, the treatment is not sufficient for the situation at hand
• if you were able to fix yourself, you probably would have done so already by now
• you may have been struggling for years, so it takes time and expertise to help you unlearn negative thoughts and behaviours

With treatment support and professional guidance, you can learn how to stop your thoughts and feelings getting in the way of a rich and full life.