Has anyone here ever been to a psychologist (therapists or psychiatrists

My experience is as long as you're honest & open with them, they'll be able to help.

Also be ready for things to take a turn you might not expect. Sometimes the problem isn't what you first thought it was.

Also it may take multiple visits for results.

avoid going to private ones out of recommendations

try someone who works for a hospital or similar where they have co-workers and are somewhat responsible / held accountable

try to make sessions conversations rather than monologues

>>16490997
There may not be anything wrong with you, other than the fact you're lazy. Before making the appointment, ask if they'll tell you what you want to hear.

Seriously... don't go expecting them to give you all the answers.

>>16491014
What people want to hear and what people need to hear are always opposites.

So how do these sessions typically start out? Do they ask me if there's something I had on my mind, do they ask me some questions to get the ball rolling, or do they not say anything and just expect me to talk?

>>16491097
Well, they need to know your general background and where you're coming from... so there will be general questions but mostly to keep the ball rolling. You can talk about anything, no limit. If your not sure what to say, they will probably prompt you.

But even if there 'isn't anything wrong with you', it's still nice to get a second opinion type of thing. Plus everyone has shit going on anyways; therapy is never a bad idea, even if it's just to have a convo (although pretty costly one).

>>16491097

There is basically no situation in which a therapist would say "oh, you don't need any help." Even people you would consider "totally normal" can benefit from therapy. The only situation that would happen is is if you made an appointment with someone who has a specialty. Like if you booked an appointment with a child therapist, or phobia specialist or something.

Generally they will ask you what brings you in. They'll try and ask some clarifying questions, and try to reflect back to you some kind of understanding. The first session is normally very light, get to know you, explain the process to you and what to expect etc

They are professionals, so you don't have to worry about leading a conversation. They will direct the conversation with their questions.

First session will be them getting to know your situation. They know exactly what to ask to get to the bottom of things. Try your best to give honest and open answers, even when you feel embarassed about it. It will make progress so much faster and easier. They are professionals and they won't judge you.

>>16491648
Is it okay if I start crying?
I feel like that could potentially happen.

>>16491702
Not that anon, but absolutely. Do not hold that back. They will usually have tissues right there for that reason.

I went to therapy for more than a year and it really really helped me. I might not be here today if I didn't.