Terrified of my new therapist, need advice

catbvnny - I'm glad you were able to have your appointment virtually :) A therapist should not be judgemental. Sometimes, they DO help us to realize hard truths about ourselves. But they should not make you feel judged as being 'wrong,' 'bad,' 'stupid,' etc. I hope everything continues to go well with your Therapy 💞

thank you guys! my session with her was virtual, i prefer virtual since i can't drive lol. i'll think about telling her, i don't really know why i'm so scared of her. she seemed very judgmental and that's probably why. i was probably overthinking it

I want to second CoolFishy22 regarding trying to see a therapist online/through video appointment. Last year with the Pandemic, I had many video appointments with my Doctors & therapist. IF it's available, in my opinion, video appointments remove a lot of my "Doctor anxiety." You can stay in your own home & that feels safer to me. There's no stress of making it there on time, etc. If that's not an option, in person appointments can be intimidating, but I have a few things I do to cope. Because therapy is a lot of the Therapist asking questions, I like to give myself a bit more control & input. These are some examples of how I handle the stress & anxiety. (You can use these for video appointments too!) Maybe these will help: -I am honest from the beginning & explain any previous therapy that was ineffective, gave me more anxiety & also share any treatment that Has helped. -Write a list of symptoms that I am struggling with. This gives me something physical to look at (eye contact with strangers/people in authority is a struggle for me) & helps me to feel more control about my therapy. With a list, you can also take notes. -Remember that YOU are the paying customer. Your Therapist works for you. Although therapists typically adhere to a therapy model, you as the customer can request to do or NOT do certain things. I hope some of that helps. If you have any more specific questions, please post them! Best of luck 💕

You know I have had to switch therapists before because I didn't think it was a good fit. I think you need to be comfortable with your therapists.

Why are you terrified of her?

It’s perfectly normal to feel scared. You are telling a total stranger about very personal things. Maybe I would suggest seeing on online if it helps, sometimes being over the screen or phone is less scary.

Why are you so terrified of her specifically? Have you told her that? I think you should...

I can relate to you being afraid. I am also that way. Do you have someone that you feel safe with to go with you your first time?

I had terrible therapists for years until I had an amazing one. I understand the hesitation but don't give up on yourself. Find a new one. I suggest PsychologyToday.com it lists out the facts.

If you are ever able to get yourself to make an appointment with her make that your main topic of conversation . Hopefully she can help you through it <3

not new to therapy at all, been going for 5+ years. & i have anxiety. i'm scared of people.

Are you new to therapy completely? What scares you about this & other potential therapists?

Why are you terrified of her?