Your first conversation
How can you prepare for a meeting with a psychologist?
You don't need perfect words to start a conversation. You can come with questions, a note or simply with whatever you are feeling.
You can look for words
Before your first meeting, you might wonder where to start and whether you will be able to explain what you are going through. You don't need a prepared speech. The beginning can be very simple: “I'm finding things difficult” or “I don't know how to talk about this yet.”
An initial consultation helps us understand your situation and consider what support you may need. The psychologist may ask questions to help the conversation begin. You can ask your own questions too.
Write down what matters
If you like organising your thoughts on paper, you can write a few sentences beforehand. This isn't about a complete life story or a list of every difficulty. Whatever feels important right now is enough.
You could note what led you to arrange the meeting, what you would like to talk about and what you would like to ask the person you are meeting. Your notes are for you — you don't have to show them to anyone.
Ask about the arrangements
It helps to know the practical arrangements. Ask about the length, fee and format of the consultation, and how to change an appointment. You can also discuss confidentiality and how you might work together.
At Dobrze, że jesteś, a meeting usually lasts 50 minutes. We agree on the date, current fee and consultation format when you get in touch. You can choose my practice in Szczecin or an online meeting.
If we meet online
Choose a place where you feel comfortable talking. Check your internet connection, microphone and camera beforehand, and charge your device. If you use headphones, keep them nearby.
If you are unsure how to join the meeting, ask when arranging it. Practical details can be clarified beforehand so that they take up less of our conversation time.
We'll agree the next steps together
The first meeting is the beginning of understanding your situation. It doesn't have to answer every question. Discussing the possible next steps is part of the consultation.
You can say what felt important, what is still unclear and what else you would like to ask. If you want to understand the practical details before your visit, read the questions and answers or simply write to me.
Source: Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences — what to expect at a first appointment (PL).
You can find practical details about meetings at Dobrze, że jesteś in the questions and answers.
