Let’s Talk About It
Life on the Other Side of Therapy: How Do You Know You Need Therapy?
Before beginning my journey to become a therapist, I didn’t give much thought to therapy. The idea of walking into a stranger’s office and sharing my life story didn’t feel appealing. I wasn’t convinced I needed help—and even if I did, I wasn’t sure therapy could actually help. And I wasn’t alone.
A 2007 study published in Psychiatric Services found that over 50% of people with a mental health condition did not believe they needed help, even when their condition was significantly affecting their lives (Mojtabai et al., 2007).
So, how did I end up here?
A few years ago, I decided to pursue a second master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. As part of the program, students were encouraged to experience life on the other side of therapy—to become the client. With some reluctance, I found a therapist whose values aligned with mine and scheduled a session. My mindset? Just check this assignment off the list. I didn’t think I needed therapy.
I went to that first session convinced it would be my last. But not long after I sat down, I began to cry—almost uncontrollably—and shared more in that 50-minute session than I ever expected. When I left, something had shifted. I realized that “getting help” doesn’t always look the way we expect it to. Having a safe, open space to tell my story felt unexpectedly freeing. My feelings were validated. My story was heard.
When You’re Wondering If Therapy Is for You
Whether your experience mirrors mine or is completely different, seeking therapy can feel scary and uncertain. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure whether therapy is “for you,” I understand—I’ve been there.
Give yourself permission to explore the possibility. You don’t have to carry it all alone. Your story matters, and it deserves to be held in a space that feels safe and supportive.
If you’re curious about how therapy might help, reaching out to a licensed therapist can be the first step toward greater understanding and healing.
How to Find a Therapist Who’s the Right Fit
Finding a therapist who feels like the right fit can take time—and that’s okay. Ask yourself what’s important to you in a therapist:
- Do you prefer someone of a certain age or gender?
- Do shared values or cultural understanding matter to you?
- Are you looking for specific modalities or specialties?
These are all valid things to consider when choosing a therapist. Here are a few trusted directories to help you start your search:
- Psychology Today – A widely used directory that allows you to filter by location, insurance, specialty, and more.
- TherapyDen – An inclusive platform that lets you search by identity, values, and therapeutic approach.
- Inclusive Therapists – Focused on affirming care for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and neurodivergent clients.
- Open Path Collective – A nonprofit offering affordable therapy for individuals, couples, and families.
A Final Thought
Whatever you decide, you deserve someone who is affirming and safe—whether that’s with me or another therapist who aligns with your needs.
Therapy is a lot like trying on a new pair of shoes. At first, it might feel unfamiliar or even a bit uncomfortable—but with the right fit, it offers support, alignment, and ease you didn’t know you were missing.
Reference:
Mojtabai, R., et al. (2007). Perceived Need and Barriers to Mental Health Treatment. Psychiatric Services. PubMed.