Easy ways to prepare for your appointment so that you arrive ready with as little stress as possible.
How to get there?
Seems unnecessary to say but knowing where you are going is important. Prep for the commute so you don’t have to worry about getting lost or arriving late.
Print out or write down directions
Test drive prior to the day of the appointment
Leave early; give yourself plenty of time
What to take?
Items that help you get the most out of your visit. This could be a fidget, an article or book you found insightful, a bottle of water, or a tablet.
Any paperwork required by the clinician, preferably completed; insurance card
Notes on any questions or topics you want to discuss
Notebook for personal note taking
Comfort item: water, fidget, book
What to expect?
Every clinician’s waiting room, personal office, check-in procedures, and payment process varies.
Quality diagnostic work takes more than 1 visit; the clinician should be able to estimate how many sessions will be necessary and the focus of each session.
Questions about the purpose/goals of your visit, and your mental health history and current symptoms
Time for you to ask questions
Questionnaires/assessments in person or for later completion are likely
What to ask?
You should feel comfortable to ask any questions related to all aspects of your sessions, including any sensory accommodations from which you might benefit.
