How to Prepare for Your Therapy Meet and Greet
Mental health is something that should always be a focus but this week, CMHA Mental Health Week, brings it especially to the forefront. Right now, many of us are dealing with feelings of extreme isolation and anxiety, and it’s so important to acknowledge how we feel, embrace these emotions, and learn how to deal with them. It might feel uncomfortable at times but you’re not alone - 1+ year into the pandemic and we’re all dealing with emotions that we might not completely understand.
If you are struggling with your mental health right now, wellbe offers virtual counselling and therapy sessions to help you connect from a safe space. If you’re interested in connecting with our therapists, we’re offering complimentary meet-and-greets so you can ask questions, learn more about how these sessions work, and make sure that your therapist is a perfect fit for you. We’ve put together some tips to help you prepare for your virtual therapy meet and greet to make you feel as comfortable as possible.
signs it’s time to call a therapist
If you feel detached from yourself
If you feel like your life is unbalanced
If you notice a change in your mood (you don’t have to know why!)
what to expect from your meet-and-greet
An opportunity to determine if the therapist is someone who you feel comfortable talking to
An opportunity to explore if the therapist is an appropriate match for you (demeanour, interventions offered, goals that can be achieved)
Practical questions
An opportunity to understand how the therapist can meet your goals (e.g. timing of sessions, cost, insurance)
Important questions to ask your therapist during the meet-and-greet
What type of interventions do you use?
How long will I be in therapy?
Therapeutic intervention does not have a set timeline. Therapists work from where you are at to help you reach your goals.
How often will we meet?
Can I bring my baby to therapy?
the answer is YES! We are open to providing support in whatever capacity works for you
How can I tell if this therapist is right for me? Ask yourself these questions afterwards
Did I feel comfortable speaking with this therapist?
Did i feel judged or supported?
Did I leave this meet-and-greet feeling hopeful for future sessions?
Did I feel understood in the meet-and-greet?
Common misconceptions about counselling
Therapy is for people who can't control their lives
Therapy is for anyone and everyone! The goal of therapy is to create a sense of control and empowerment.
Counselling is only for people who have experienced trauma
Any/all topics can be discussed in therapy
Counselling leaves me feeling uncomfortable and vulnerable
Finding a therapist that you feel connected with and that makes you feel comfortable creates a feeling of safety and emotional support
Mental Health Resources
Book a virtual session or complimentary meet and greet with one of our social workers + psychotherapists here.
Blog posts:
Community resources:
Hope for Wellness (mental health counselling for Indigenous peoples)
This post was written by wellbe’s social worker Meghan Menkes. If you’re looking for mental health support, visit our website to book your virtual complimentary meet and greet and learn how they can help you.