Things to Do Before Meeting With An Online Therapist in Illinois
My clients already do a lot of work by the time they schedule their first appointment. They research anxiety to find new ways to treat it. They also read self-help books and try to live healthy lifestyles. But despite their knowledge and best efforts, they still find themselves in the anxiety and burnout cycle. They feel defeated and ashamed for not being able to make themselves feel better, especially since they know so much information.
My clients stay in this cycle for years before they attempt online therapy. It’s not that my clients don’t value treatment; they do. They understand the importance of mental health and often recommend it to others, including family members. However, it’s difficult for them to give themselves the gift of therapy because they don’t think they deserve it. They believe they need to figure things out independently, as they have been doing their whole lives. In addition, their shame about feeling anxious and depressed and their fear of being found out keep them from attending therapy sooner.
3 Things To Know Before Meeting With An Online Therapist
If you relate to the above, I hope you can acknowledge the effort you’ve already put into seeking support. You’ve already completed the first two recommended steps by determining reasons for seeking therapy and researching online therapists for a good fit. Now the goal becomes to attend your first session. The following three suggestions will help you not psych yourself out before attending your first session.
Schedule With An Online Therapist Early
Get the earliest appointment you can. Your anxiety will continue to rise until you start your session. This feeling is normal. Going to therapy is a new experience, and new experiences automatically increase stress. Getting a session time sooner rather than later will keep this anxiety from brewing and causing more misery. Once you start treatment, your general worry about therapy and feelings of shame will decrease.
Your Role VS Your Online Therapists Role
Another thing that will help make it more likely for you to attend your first session is knowing your role versus the therapist’s role. My clients are perfectionists and often start therapy with unrealistic expectations of themselves and feel shame over being confused and not having answers.
Therapy is about exploring feelings just as much as building skills. And it is the therapist’s role to help guide you and clarify your behavior based on their education and experience. Your role of showing up and being willing to participate in the process is more than enough to start.
Share Your Concerns
Lastly, sharing your concerns with the therapist during consultation helps increase your chances of not canceling your first session. Speaking about your anxiety regarding therapy lowers shame and makes it less likely for you to withdraw and not continue. I never expect new clients to be completely honest or fully trust me. Rapport is something we develop over time together. However, knowing some of your worries can help us devise a practical plan to start.
Final Thoughts From An Online Therapist in Illinois
Motivation to continue with therapy is an ongoing process. Your therapist is there to help support you in your commitment to treatment. Attending your first therapy session is a significant accomplishment. I understand the years of work it took to get here, and I hope you continue moving forward with therapy that works for you.
Start Online Therapy From Anywhere In Illinois
It is time to stop putting off meeting with an online therapist. It is okay to get support and with online therapy you do not have to keep trying to make yourself feel better. Get started with therapeutic services in Illinois by following these steps:
- Call or text 217-402-7817 for a free consultation with an online therapist
- Discuss your concerns or anxiety surrounding starting therapy
- Start feeling better with support and understanding
Therapy Services I Offer Virtually in Mahomet, Champaign, Springfield, Peoria, or Anywhere in Between in Illinois
You can receive a variety of therapeutic services at Live Lekko. Such as treatment for childhood emotional neglect, anxiety and depression. As well as therapy for stress, burnout, or grief. Additionaly our caring online therapist specializes in counseling for women, perfectionism, and people-pleasing. I look forward to hearing how I can support you in living a full confident life.