What to Expect When You See a Psychologist
Taking the step to see a psychologist is a significant move towards improving your mental health. Understanding what to expect can help ease any anxiety about the process. Here’s a brief guide to help you prepare for your first visit.
Why See a Psychologist?
Psychologists are highly trained professionals who can help you manage a wide range of mental health issues, from anxiety and depression to relationship problems and stress. They use evidence-based therapies to support you in navigating emotional, psychological, and behavioural challenges.
The Initial Steps
Taking the first step: Your journey starts with a simple step - reaching out. Reviewing the websites of clinics or psychologists is an excellent way to learn more about the services available to you and specific clinician details. Many clinics offer an initial consultation, often a brief phone call, to understand your needs and match you with the right psychologist.
Obtaining a Referral: To access Medicare rebates for up to 10 therapy sessions per year, you will need a GP referral and a Mental Healthcare Plan. Any GP can provide you with a Mental Healthcare Plan and refer you to a clinic or psychologist. However, it's important to note that you can still see a therapist without a Mental Healthcare Plan or referral, but you will only be eligible for Medicare rebates if you have these documents.
Preparing for Your First Session
Reflect on Your Goals: Consider why you are seeking therapy and what you hope to achieve. This can help you and your psychologist focus your sessions.
Gather Your Thoughts: It might be helpful to write down any thoughts or questions you have before your session. Your psychologist will spend the first few sessions asking a lot of questions to understand more about what led you to reach out. You can do this simply by jotting down some notes on your phone.
What happens in the first session
Introduction: At the beginning of your first session, your psychologist will introduce themselves, explain their background and provide comprehensive information about the psychological service. You will also be provided an opportunity to ask questions.
Discuss your concerns: The first session will include a comprehensive assessment, during which your therapist will work with you to explore the difficulties and issues that led you to seek support. They will also ask questions about your mental health history, family, and psychosocial background to establish clear goals for your work together.
Goals: During this session, you will discuss your goals for therapy, whether it's managing stress, improving relationships, or overcoming anxiety. Having clear goals can help guide your sessions.
What Happens During Treatment?
Your Space: Therapy is your space to talk about anything on your mind without fear of judgment.
Therapeutic Techniques: Psychologists use various therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Schema Therapy, and others depending on your needs. Ask questions so you understand the process of each different type of therapy.
Ongoing Support: Therapy is a collaborative process. Your psychologist will guide you, but you set the pace. It’s normal to feel unsure at first, but your psychologist is there to support you every step of the way.
Seeing a clinical psychologist is a proactive step towards better mental health. By understanding what to expect, you can approach your first session with confidence and clarity.