You want something to change. Yet you put off making contact. When you have already told your story and tried a great deal, asking for help again can be a big step.
Telling your story again takes something out of you
You read a website and recognise something. Perhaps this person could help. A little later, you close the page again. You think about everything you would have to explain, the expectations that might arise and the possibility of being disappointed again.
I recognise that hesitation from my own history. There was a time when I had tried so often to explain what was happening to me that trusting again asked a great deal of me. I did want to move forward. Turning to someone else had become complicated.
That shapes how I approach an introductory conversation. Someone can genuinely want change and still doubt whether they can face another programme. That doubt belongs in the conversation.
A good review does not answer all your questions
Other people’s experiences can help you form a picture. They tell you what someone valued and what they noticed during or after working with me. They can offer hope.
But you have your own history. What mattered to someone else does not tell us what you need. Even after reading positive accounts, you can still have questions about working together, the costs, the expectations and what taking part would ask of you.
For me, an introductory conversation starts with where you are now and what you are looking for. You do not have to know beforehand which form of guidance suits you. We can also discuss what helped before, what was missing and what you want to be clear about this time. Your earlier experience becomes part of the conversation.
Say what you want to explore
Perhaps you mainly want to sleep better again. Perhaps you want to feel less afraid in ordinary situations, or have room for the people around you at home again. Those are understandable wishes to start with. You do not need to turn them into a complete account before getting in touch.
You can also begin by saying what you dread. For example, that you are afraid of telling someone a great deal again without understanding what you are working towards together. The person opposite you can respond, and you can decide whether that answer feels right for you.
If you are experiencing mental health difficulties, your GP can help you consider suitable care. If you are already receiving treatment and notice too little improvement, discuss that with your clinician. An introductory conversation with me is not a reason to stop that care.
If you would like to explore whether my guidance fits what you need, you can get in touch through the individuals page. Briefly tell me what you are looking for; your first message does not need to include a detailed personal history.