I'm nervous about therapy.

[lawliet94]

Recently, I was referred into therapy. I have been cutting for six months (I don't really know why I started, but it quickly got out of control and I have a sleeve full of scars that don't look like they're ever going to heal properly) and I've been referred to a therapist to help me sort out my issues. Thing is, I'm super nervous about it, because I have real problems sharing emotions with people, especially with women (don't ask me why, I just much prefer talking with men and this therapist is a woman). I usually just cry, clam up or become completely unmanegeable. Anybody been through therapy, currently in it, or just starting it (like me) who could offer me some reassurance about stuff? It would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Louise
:confused:

[CuriousDestruction]

Hey love, therapy is really really a good thing, especially with a good thing. They can help you to open up and really give a lot of support when you are going through stuff. As someone who has been in therapy since the age of 6 I can say it has saved my life more than once. That said, if you are not comfortable with a female therapist ask for a male one. They should be able to accommodate. It really will be okay. Don't worry too much.

[georgiamay]

If you'd feel more comfortable talking to a man, can't you ask for a man? I know that when I was referred, my doctor even asked whether I'd feel more comfortable with a man or a woman, I'm sure if they asked, they'd change your therapist.

I saw a therapist for 10 months, and I haven't seen her since september/october time. For the first month or so, I was very closed off. I sat with my arms folded, and just answered, "yes," "no," or "I don't know." But after a while I started to feel more comfortable and starting having proper conversations. It's almost completely confidential. If they think you're going to kill yourself, they will tell your parents. But that's pretty much the only scenario where they will break confidence, from my experience. They won't tell your parents anything you say during the session, so if you're worried about that, don't be.

They will keep your parents involved though. They are your parents, so there are things that they do need to tell them. If you need to be diagnosed with something (like depression etc), then they'll tell your parents. It's just updates on how you're doing mostly, no details.

It's not as bad as you seem to think it's going to be. When I firsted going, I thought it was going to be awful, and it felt like I had all of my power taken away. But it's not like that at all. They don't force you to say anything, they wait until you're ready to tell them. They're very understanding in my experience. They see self harm almost every day, so nothing you say is going to shock them.

The only way you'll get anything out of this though, is if you're honest with them. If you lie, then they won't be able to help you. That's the main advice I want to give. Be honest with them.

[beebs]

I cant really offer much advice as im just starting aswell, Im waiting to know if im being put on the emergency list or if ill have to wait for longer. Let me know how you get on, and ill let you know too.

[lawliet94]

Thanks a lot everyone- you've definetley helped a lot. And Beebs, I'll definetley let you know how I get on if you do. Good luck! <3:lol:

[Mortal Coil]

I know I'm late, but it does get easier with time. If you clam up in the beginning you can come back later. Best of luck <3

[love is louder]

i was in exactly the same position as you a year ago. luckly my first therapist was great! she used to do it too but she didnt tell me until about 6 months later. but i knew she knew exactly what i meant. i have also seen like 8 other people about it and none of the rest understood so they were useless to me.

what happens before you go is they will have a case meeting where you will be assigned to someone suitable to your needs. just request to see a man if you want. it will probably make it easier for them if your come straight up with it.

[ShootingStar]

You can probably ask for a man if you want :). Don't worry, I'm sure it will be a positive thing
ss...x