Matthew,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to our discussion forums. You can discuss any topic relevant to anxiety/panic in this great forum.
Therapy begins with a first interview. This is a discussion
heavily weighted toward the your side that reveals bit by bit the about you and the reason you are seeking therapy. It is a
relational process, where the therapist, as a person, directs the process and
communicates verbally and non-verbally what therapy is like. They "listen" to
what is said and not said, what is communicated in verbal and in non-verbal
ways. Many patients become annoyed when the therapist asks
"obvious" questions so try to be prepared for the first couple of sessions as a way of getting to know each other.
I commend you for choosing therapy and try to keep an open mind until you understand how therapy is working for you. I was pleased to read you talked with your Mom and she immediately helped you make an appointment. Kudos to both of you.
I hope you are able to develp a healthy relationship with a a therapist, but remember we sometimes just don't click with some people so do not let one experience stop you from seeking help as there is just the right therapist out there waiting to help you !
Kindly, Kitt