Afraid of Making a Mistake? Here's the First Step to Starting Psychological Counseling

Illustration First Step Starting Psychological Counseling (freepik)

YOGYAKARTA - Deciding to attend counseling often feels heavy, especially if you don't know the first step to starting psychological counseling. This hesitation is normal and experienced by many people.

In fact, understanding this initial stage can make the therapy process feel lighter. Proper preparation will help you feel more comfortable when the first session begins.

First Steps to Starting Psychological Counseling

Reported from Pijar Psychology, here are some things you need to understand before deciding to go to psychological counseling:

Know Your Reasons and Goals

Coming to a psychologist is not just a place to vent or vent emotions. You need to set clear goals, for example, reducing anxiety or improving disrupted sleep patterns.

This goal is important so that the counseling session feels more directed. Without a goal, the session time can be over just to talk without a clear direction.

Write down your emotions and thoughts beforehand.

Try writing down the moments when you feel very sad, panicked, or difficult to control yourself. Also note your triggers and reactions after the incident.

This habit of recording should be done a few days before the session. That way, the counseling time is not over just to map the problem from the beginning.

Prepare Mentally to Discuss Specific Issues

Many people come to psychologists when problems have piled up, so the session is over to cry without a discussion room. In fact, counseling is a gradual process, not an instant solution after one meeting.

Psychologists need your cooperation to map the problem gradually. Being open from the start will speed up the process of understanding between you and the psychologist.

Consider the Cost and Time of Sessions

Don't expect one session of counseling to instantly solve all problems. Changing your mindset takes time, just like physical recovery which is also gradual.

Read also: The Character of People Who Always Feel the Most True: Why is it Difficult to Change?

Also consider your session schedule. It is best to choose a time at the end of the workday or school because counseling is quite draining emotionally.

Tell the History of the Medicine Consumed

Remember the medications you have recently consumed, including stomach medications or pain relievers. It could be that the physical complaints are actually related to psychological conditions that have not been realized.

If you are taking psychotropic drugs such as antidepressants, tell the psychologist. This information helps the psychologist understand your condition more thoroughly.

Know the Types of Therapies to Be Undertaken

Each psychological condition is usually handled with a different approach. For anxiety and depression, the approach commonly used is cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT.

Knowing the type of therapy from the start will make you more prepared to go through the process. You also don't have to hesitate to ask the psychologist about the methods used.

Confidence and Pride in Your Steps

Not everyone is brave enough to take the step to check their mental state. You should be proud that you have chosen to start this process for better mental health.

Remember that psychologists are also ordinary people, so the compatibility of characters still needs to be considered. If you are not comfortable with one psychologist, you have the right to find a more suitable one.

By knowing the first few steps of starting psychological counseling above, hopefully it will make you more prepared to face the therapy process. Don't let doubts hinder the steps towards a healthier self. Visit VOI for the latest information about mental health and other lifestyles.