What do I talk about with the psychologist?

The therapist may want your mother to come in just for a second, to introduce herself.. especially if you are under 18. But no, the therapy is for you… it’s not family therapy, so she wouldn’t be in there. Believe me, I know meeting with a COMPLETE stranger for a whole hour (or however long) is difficult enough, but then being expected to dump out all your feelings and emotions… very hard. Seeing therapists was always torture for me, because I hate having all the attention on me.. being in the spotlight. If you don’t feel comfortable with this therapist, it is OK to go and try another one!! I literally went through 5 or 6 therapists before I found one I was completely comfortable with. Even though they are trained professionals, different people have different vibes. Just take a deep breath… you’ll know when you’ve found a therapist who you can be yourself around, and talk to openly.

The only time your mother is in the room is for family therapy so no, she doesnt have to be there (usually even with little kids, parents arent in the room, therapy needs to be conducted in private…). You dont have to know what to do or say, therapist will just ask you a bunch of questions. since it is all about your life, you should have the answers… first session is usually basically an intro to therapy (what you do in therapy, the rules, your rights, and what not), then she’ll talk to you about what’s been going on with you, like mood, daily activities, social support, etc, and a little bit about your background, family, etc… it goes amazingly fast… if youre nervous about your mom finding out about anything (and I am sure that she will probably bring this up first, but if she doesnt) ask about confidentiality, when she will discuss things with your mother, and what sort of things she will have to tell your mother (now legally, if you’re under 18 your parents have a right to your records, but most therapists make it clear to their client’s parents that they will only reveal certain things if the child is a danger to themselves or others). Dont worry, most of the clinical psychologists I know are really nice… they kinda have to be…

No, not if your not confortable with it. Thats what phycology is for.. to make you feel better. id know, my best friend has depression and hes been to the phycologist many times and even to a mental hospitol

Most psychologists prefer to talk to you alone, without your mother…it makes it easier for you to divulge things to him/her without the discomfort of your mother listening.

The psychologist will ask you questions and all you have to do is answer them, but be honest - the psychologist is there to help you.

Firstly, there’s nothing to be scared of and don’t worry about what you are going to say, most physchologists will ask you a bit about yourself to make you feel comfortable etc etc.

And no, your mother only goes into the room with you if you want her to, but USUALLY the psychologist will speak to you alone.