“Do I really need therapy?”
Why so many women talk themselves out of it.
The thoughts making you question whether you “need” therapy.
You’ve been curious about therapy, but then immediately think:
“Others have it so much worse.”
“I had a good childhood, there’s no reason I should be struggling like this.”
“I feel like I’m being crazy/dramatic/extra.”
On the outside, it looks like you have it all together: you have a good job, you’re doing well in school, and you’re seen as someone who’s responsible and dependable.
But inside, you’re constantly anxious and second-guessing yourself, making every day a struggle.
You’re getting through the days, but at this point it feels like you’re just surviving.
Functioning isn’t the same as feeling okay.
So many women believe they have to be in crisis mode to actually need therapy. This is totally a myth!
Anyone can benefit from therapy, and you don't need to wait until you're at rock bottom to reach out for support.
Two things can absolutely be true at once. You can be doing well in many areas of your life but still need support in other areas.
I often hear from clients when they're first starting therapy that it's something they've always been curious about but felt like things weren’t “bad enough.”
Signs therapy can benefit you.
You might still be wondering if therapy is right for you. Here are a few things to look out for:
Day to day or overall functioning is impacted by anxiety.
You’re noticing a pattern, but feel unsure about how to break it.
You’re emotionally (or even physically) drained.
You know you need to make changes, but are overwhelmed about where to start.
Many of the women I work with feel like talking to their friends or family is burdening them.
While this is absolutely not true, therapy provides a space to be honest about your emotions, without fear of judgment.
What is therapy actually like?
Therapy offers a safe space to explore your emotions, experiences, and deepen your understanding of why you feel the way you do.
There is no right or wrong way to do therapy.
Therapy isn’t quite like talking to a friend. With a friend, you get support but it’s often biased.
In therapy, you get an outside perspective and feedback that is tailored to you.
Therapy is hard work but so is constantly feeling like you're battling with yourself.
Toxic positivity: helpful or lowkey invalidating?
A common frustration I hear from clients is that when talking with a friend or a family member they're told that “well at least you have a job” or “just look on the bright side.”
While this is intended to be helpful, oftentimes it can be invalidating to our emotions and our experiences.
Yes, you can be grateful to have a job AND you’re allowed to feel overwhelmed with it. There’s room for both to coexist.
While I do find that there’s some benefit to looking at things in a positive light, this doesn't have to diminish the negatives or the struggles that you’re experiencing.
Acknowledging all of your emotions and accepting that more than one thing can be true at once is an important process that I support my clients with in therapy.
You don't have to have it all figured out.
If you’re been reading this and feeling seen, that’s important to take note of.
It's okay to still feel hesitant and it's okay to not have all the answers before reaching out.
Curiosity and sometimes even just wanting things to not continue on as they have been is enough of a reason to seek support.
Are you thinking more about therapy, but still feel unsure?
Starting therapy can feel intimidating, and it’s totally normal to feel nervous!
I support women 18+ who want to break free from anxiety, perfectionism, body image struggles, and disordered eating.
Through therapy you can learn to set boundaries, build confidence, coping skills, and a healthier relationship with food and your body.
Take a look at the FAQ page for questions or click here to learn more about how I approach therapy.
Start by booking a free 15-minute consultation.
