I made my first counseling appt for this Friday. I decided to go with someone affiliated with my church who specializes in "womens issues" instead of someone specializing in IF.
What should I expect from my 1st appointment? Will it mostly be a get to know you kind of appt? TIA
Re: 1st Counseling appt - What to expect?
I have no idea. I avoided going to a clinic that specialized in women's issues (but was affiiliated with my church) because I wanted someone who was board certified in gynecology at least and who had some IF experience.
Let us know how it is.
ETA: I read your post wrong. I didn't realize it was that type of counseling appt, I thought it was a medical appointment like seeing an RE. In that case, I have no experience but wish you the best of luck.
I met with a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in IF for the first time two weeks ago. I just told her my story and everything that was bothering me. It was like talking to a friend, and when I left I was like "hmmmm....what did I just do? I don't really feel any better."
I told the social worker at my CF clinic about this, and she said the point is more to have someone to vent/talk to, rather then to get some sort advice that will help you deal with things. (I wonder if it's different if you see psychologist or psychiatrist.) She told me to give it a few more tries.
I see the IF social worker again tomorrow, and I must admit that I am looking forward to the appointment.
I had my first appt with a psychologist that specializes in IF a few weeks ago. It started with a lot of "get to know you questions". And then we talked a little about why I was there, if DH knew I was there, where I find support, how DH and I communicate, etc.
She actually sent me away with homework - I have to try to start a minimum of 2 "hot topic/uncomfortable" conversations with DH.
I am looking forward to seeing how things progress with her.
I am seeing a counselor who specializes in IF. It's alot of talk therapy, but she also can dig out some deeper stuff about my family, as a historical perspective on how I learned to deal with things. She's also very, very encouraging.
Thanks for the advice & for sharing your experiences. I definitely need someone to vent to who will be rational and give me some encouragement.
I am a little nervous that because I am seeing someone specializing in "womens issues" and not IF that she might say all the typical wrong things, but I can at least give her a chance and then switch if necessary. She also listed adoption as a specialty so maybe that background will help.
I'll let you know how it goes!