Mental health is just as important as physical health, but often overlooked. For some, there’s also shame or embarrassment around the topic, making it difficult to get care. Learning more about mental health can make it easier to take the first steps toward feeling better. So in this three-part blog series, we’ll go over when and how to get help; how to make the most of a mental health care visit; and an overview of common treatment options.

So you’ve taken that first step and made a mental health appointment. Now what? First, congratulations on prioritizing your mental health. By doing so, you’re supporting your whole self and on the path to feeling better.

In this post, we’ll go over what to expect in your first visit, how to make the most of it, and what to do if you don’t “click” with the first provider you try.

Please note: While there are many types of mental health professionals, we’re using the term “provider” here for simplicity.

What to expect

If you’ve never experienced a counseling session, it’s natural to feel nervous about opening up to a stranger. It may help to keep in mind that in your first session, you probably won’t need to share anything deeply personal. Also, anything you tell your provider is confidential.

Your initial visit will be about getting to know each other. So be prepared to answer, and ask, a lot of questions. The first visit is typically longer than later ones, usually 60 to 90 minutes.

The information gathering in the first session is important for several reasons. For you, it helps you decide if the provider is a good fit. For your provider, it helps them get to know you and understand what is going on from your perspective.

Your provider may ask you about:

  • Your symptoms and concerns
  • Your physical health and current medications
  • Whether you’ve attended therapy in the past
  • Your family’s mental health history
  • Your work, home life, and support system
  • What you hope to gain from therapy

You may want to ask them about:

  • Where they are from and/or their hobbies (small talk eases tension)
  • How long they have been practicing
  • Their experience treating the problems you’re facing
  • Their treatment philosophy or style
  • What they expect from you
  • Their policies regarding payment, rescheduling, and missed appointments
  • How often they recommend you meet

How to make the most of a visit

Before your appointment

Spending a little time preparing for your visit will help both you and your provider. Some things you can do:

  • Read through any information the clinic has provided you and fill out any necessary paperwork.
  • Make sure you have your current health insurance card in your wallet or purse.
  • Make a list of any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies you take.
  • Bring a checklist. The nonprofit organization Mental Health America has a helpful checklist to bring to appointments, which you can download from their site and complete in advance. It includes information such as how you’re doing now (mood, sleep, appetite, relationships, etc.), ways you’re helping yourself, and your short- and long-term goals. You can refer to this list in the session, or even show it to the provider to save time during your appointment.

During your appointment

Everyone is different. For some, the first mental health care visit can be scary and difficult. For others, it’s a huge relief to have someone to talk to. Maybe you’ll feel a little of both. Either way, there are things you can do that will help.

  • Breathe and accept your emotions. Whatever feelings come up, a few deep, slow breaths can take the edge off. Allow yourself to feel what you feel without judgment.
  • Communicate openly. Be as open and honest as you can. This sets you up for successful treatment.
  • Take notes or record the session so you can refer back to information and insights later. (Ask permission first before recording.)
  • Share your goals for treatment. Are there certain behaviors you want to work on most? Are you open to medication or concerned about side-effects?
  • If you have a telehealth appointment, make sure you are in a well-lighted room. If you live with others, take whatever steps you can to ensure you won’t be disturbed or overheard.

Finding the right provider for you

The provider-patient relationship is essential. You need someone you can trust in order for treatment to succeed. After your first visit, reflect on how it went. Consider:

  • Were they a good listener?
  • Did you feel understood?
  • Did you feel comfortable opening up to them?
  • Is your gut telling you it’s not the right fit?

You may need to give it more than one session, but you will likely know right away. It’s completely acceptable to “shop around” until you find the right mental health provider. It may take some time and effort, but you are worth it.

You are not alone

Our Customer Service team is here to answer your benefit questions, help you find an in-network provider, or connect you to community resources. Contact us:

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