I know it’s easier said than done, because I couldn’t do it, but I also didn’t have a reminder (or even the words to describe it at the point), so maybe this will be helpful to you: try your best not to mask. If you can’t help it, try your best to point out to them that that is what is going on.

Being in a stressful situation, and around new people, can make it especially hard to avoid, it’s a defence mechanism, as is fawning - trying to impress and come off as best as we can, which also means leaving out things that upset or embarrass us. But it’s important for them to see under these defences, or at least hear what is under them from you, so maybe think ahead of time of examples of struggles you have that you might find it hard to talk about, so that you are at least a little prepared.

Also, while your father might have important insight and information to contribute, if you are more comfortable opening up without him there, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask for him to wait outside for some of the meeting.

Good luck!