For anyone that’s been to a therapist, what should I expect?

[gopackers2002]

I’ve been meaning to go to therapy for about 3-4 years but now chose to give it a shot. What should I expect from it? I’m kinda expecting them to try to get to know me and stuff but is there anything else? Also I checked online and apparently there’s a thing called a “emotional hangover “, is it common?

[provokeesmokee]

Yeah, feeling exhausted or irritable, or otherwise just "raw" after therapy can happen. I try to book myself early afternoon appointments and don't schedule anything for the rest of the day, though I've recently been fairly quick to recover or not emotional afterwards.

But at first, account for yourself to be in an uncomfortable spot after your sessions.

Therapy is a two way street: you have to trust them, as much as they need to listen to you. If either of you isn't fully present or invested, you won't get much out of therapy.

The first few will be getting to know you, establishing that trust and rapport. Remember this applies to you, too. You can ask about their approach, their goals for your treatment (might be hard to know at first), and anything else that might help you be more comfy.

I've been going to therapy for the last 7 years and it has been positive, life changing, and exactly what I needed.

Good luck putting in the good work.

[slatyb]

A lot of talking, no judgment. Not every therapist is right for every person. I had a great therapist for a couple of years going through a divorce. A year or so ago I tried on in Seattle but I could tell instantly that she wasn't right for me. A few weeks ago I started with another and she is just brilliant and it's already helping.