Im going to a psychiatrist tomorrow
and im just wondering what to expect. i mean, how does it work. do i really have to completely open up to some complete stranger? is it going to help at all?
Answer:If this is a psychiatrist, (an MD), chances are they will ask about your symptoms, because they are going to want to prescribe medications.
Very few pyschiatrists "do therapy" today. Tell the shrink about your symptoms and how you feel.
If this shrink is actually DOING therapy, you will start off slow. They will ask what made you come to therapy. THey might ask you some history. It's very easy. It is a chance for you to see if you like that therapist and also if the therapist can help you. If you continue to agree to meet, you will talk more and more and more. Some about what is going on today and some about the past.
As trust develops, you will be conformtable talking about anything.
Just be honest and the process will work. Don't be afraid.
IF you don't open up, how do you expect for this person to help you?
Basically you talk about yourself, which most people do not have any issues with doing. so go have fun.....
It depends on you and the psychiatrist. Each type of therapy (and each therapist) starts a little differently. Ask your questions to the therapist. Also think about why are you going and what you want to work through or resolve. They are there to help you get to where you want to be, but you have to be honest with YOURSELF and the therapist. You do not have to discuss very painful or embarrassing things the first session, but if they are tied to something you want to work through, you will need to discuss it at some time. Again, you have to be honest with yourself in order for this to work. They may tell you things you do not want to hear or accept, but one you do 'listen' and accept you can move forward. Take care - you'll do great!
You obviously don't have to tell them anything you don't want to. Generally, they'll ask you some questions. It's not like in the movies where you lay down in a chair and are expected to pour out your whole life's story. I haven't been to one since I was a kid so it might be different depending on age.