For young people

What happens when you come to see me

If you are coming to see me, you might be wondering what it will be like. Here is what usually happens.

Who are you?

My name is Imogen. I am a Psychologist. My job is to get to know you and understand how you are finding life, so we can work out how to make sure things go as smoothly as possible.

Why am I coming to see you?

Often a parent has wondered whether something could be easier for you than it is at the moment. Maybe you have talked together about this. Sometimes we are trying to work out how your brain works and what suits you best. Sometimes we are working on something you are finding hard.

Where will we meet?

At my room at The Practice Rooms in Clifton, Bristol. It is a small, quiet room with comfortable chairs. There is no waiting room, so your grown up will either come in with you or wait nearby.

What will we actually do?

Mostly I will ask you questions and listen. This will help me to get to know you. I might ask you to do some puzzles or activities, and some of them are on a computer. These are not the kind of tests you can pass or fail. There is no score to worry about and nothing to revise for. Some parts are meant to get harder as you go, so nobody finishes all of it. That is how they are supposed to work. I will try to make it as easy as possible for you to talk to me and complete any tasks we need to do together.

How long will it take?

Sometimes we will just meet once or twice. Sometimes we will have more meetings so that we can work on understanding what you are finding difficult and learning new ways of coping.

Will my parents be there?

Sometimes yes and sometimes no. It depends what we are doing. If you have a preference, tell me and I will try to arrange it that way.

What if I don't want to talk about something?

If there is something that you don’t want to talk about thats fine, you can let me know. Just tell me and we will talk about something else. You do not have to explain why.

Can I have a break?

Yes, whenever you need one. Just say. I will offer you breaks as well but you don’t need to wait till then.

Can I bring something with me?

Yes. Headphones, a fidget, a drink, something to hold, whatever helps. If the room is too bright or too warm or too anything, tell me and we will sort it out.

What if I don't want to come at all?

Tell someone. It is much better for me to know. That way we can figure out a way that works for you.

Anything else?

You can ask me anything you like, at any point. There are no silly questions.