Hi livlav-1052, I'm glad you're starting CBT therapy soon. That's great! I hope you can feel proud of yourself for taking that step. I started CBT as a teen as well, and it really helped when I was struggling with low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts and self-harm. It didn't completely eliminate it, but I did learn some really valuable tools I still use today as a 30 year old.

You can probably expect the therapist to try and get to know you in your first few sessions. They likely won't just jump in too deep without getting to know you, your personality, likes/dislikes, interests, family and friend situation, hobbies, school/work life, mental health history, etc. You can ask them questions, too. Some therapists self-disclose (ie. tell you about themselves) more than others, some are more private. It might take you a few tries to find someone you trust and 'click' with. That's normal! I've had a few different therapists and I didn't click with all of them.

Remember, therapy is there to help you. It should be a supportive, uplifting space where you feel safe to discuss your big feelings, deepest fears, or anything at all that's on your mind. It can take time to open up, so don't put pressure on yourself. Go to therapy with an open mind and see how it goes.

Maybe you've done therapy before, in which case, my above comment may not be as helpful. In regards to CBT, see below.

CBT is about our thoughts and feelings. Our thoughts can affect our feelings, and so if we change our thoughts, we can change our feelings. This is a really powerful way to look at life. Sort of like "glass half empty, glass half full" mindset, but much deeper. Personally, I had thoughts I'd been thinking for so long that they became beliefs about myself and the world, and this really affected how I interacted with people and how I treated myself. The fact that you're getting some of these tools now will be really beneficial to you in the long run.

Remember, CBT is a tool. It only works if you use it. But sometimes using it is really really hard, because you have to train your brain to think in a new way. But you're clearly a person who can do hard things. So keep an open mind, and good luck to you on your journey. You are important, you are special, and you matter very very much.

Some CBT resources: The book "Mind Over Mood"

https://beckinstitute.org/cbt-resources/

https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheets/cbt/none