Meeting with a psychologist/psychotherapist?

What is a session with a psychologist?

A session with a psychologist is  simply listening and talking. Each session provides an opportunity to tell your story, and to be listened to. One of the most important parts of it is healing relationship between the person and the psychologist. Many people feel that they have benefited from the whole process, some even after a few meetings. Like any other treatment or life experience, sessions with a psychologist may not be suitable for everyone. Each individual has to decide whether session is helpful for them or not. The initial consultations' aim is to help people decide about it.

Should I go to a psychologist?

Meetings with a psychologist are recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of psychological distress. If you are depressed, anxious, fearful, angry or don't feel in control of your life, meeting with a psychologist might help you. If you are unhappy, having relationship problems, or feel you are not living up to your potential, meeting with psychologist can help you develop greater self -esteem and support your efforts to improve your life.
A session with a psychologist is an active process, like a journey of self-exploration. A psychologist can offer guidance, but the ultimate responsibility for changing is within you.
It is possible that you may feel worse before you feel better, and some people find their psychological distress is reflected in physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pains. Therapy requires uncovering  painful feelings and memories. This can be experienced as a relief but it may also stir up uncomfortable feelings.
There are often two waits before you start regular sessions. The first is after you are referred and before you attend an assessment appointment. The second is after the assessment appointment, while you are waiting for an available space. Because of the excess demand on most sessions, both of these waits are often few weeks.

Can a psychologist be my friend?

Many people have concerns about exploring their mind and feelings. Some worry that a psychologist might cause emotional harm or read their thoughts. Others fear that they would become controlled by a psychologist and be made to do things they didn’t want to do. It’s natural to be a little apprehensive about something new. That’s why it is important to meet and discuss any concerns, and ask questions before making a final decision. Ask a psychologist what training she/he has had, what supervision he receives, and what is his code of ethics.
It is good to know that a psychologist can not be your friend. She/he needs to stay in a neutral position in the relationship to be able to help.

Can I count on discretion of a psychologist?

All your details are confidential, they contain your initial referral letter, any questionnaires you have completed and returned, any letters you sent and copies of any letters sent to you. There is also a summary of your assessment and a letter to the referrer about it. Notes from the process of your treatment, including your attendance and content of the sessions, may also be recorded in your file. Any correspondence with other professionals will also be retained. If there are any details you do not wish to have recorded in your file, you can discuss it with your therapist.
The general rule all psychologists operate is "whom you see and what is said is confidential" and all supervisors, researchers, therapists and other staff are made fully aware of this.
However, it is also important that you are aware of the psychologist's responsibility on  his/her behalf, and therapists and staff employed in the NHS adhere to a Code of Practice which dictates that any information disclosed to the department is treated in the utmost confidence.
However, your therapist is obliged to act on any information which indicates a risk to your safety or the safety of others. You should have the opportunity to discuss the issue during your initial contact.