Trying Therapy for the First Time?

Do you often think it’s time to reach out and speak to someone about your problems?

Have you been trying on your own to change or stop all the unwanted thoughts and behaviors that are causing you suffering?

If these questions resonate with you, chances are, at the very least, you can benefit from trying a therapy session or seeking a support group.

First off, we must smash the illusion that people can change on their own or that you should be ‘capable’ of ‘fixing’ yourself. No one makes significant changes without the help of at least one person. A mentor, a coach, a teacher, a close friend, or a loving family member.

In previous generations, people considered therapy a luxury for the wealthy or forced upon people with severe psychiatric disorders. In the 21st century, people are seeking therapy to help them in a variety of ways, for example,

• struggling in a romantic relationship
• fighting a lot with their kids
• Wanting to lose weight
• Improve their sex life
• Cope with stress and feel contentment
• Become more productive at work

Historically, these struggles were not considered “mental health disorders”. Regardless of how we conceptualize human suffering, every human being can benefit and enjoy the health-promoting experience of having a therapist provide them with non-judgemental guidance to help improve their life.

One thing for certain is that in today’s world, people absolutely lack connection and the sense that others are listening to them deeply with empathy or compassion. These are two of the most important gifts psychotherapy can offer you.

If you are struggling with a distinct and troubling mental health problem, such as,

• You feel an overwhelming, prolonged sense of helplessness and sadness.
• Your problems don’t seem to get better despite your efforts and help from family and friends.
• You find it difficult to concentrate on work assignments or to carry out other everyday activities.
• You worry excessively, expect the worst or are constantly on edge.
• Your actions, such as drinking too much alcohol, using drugs or being aggressive, are harming you or others. (Understanding psychotherapy and how it works, American Psychological Association).
• You are concerned with your consumption of pornography.

You can definitely improve, heal and recover to enjoy a life you want and deserve.

To me, it doesn’t matter why you seek help or what your specific problem is, what matters most is that you WANT to change and are WILLING to do whatever it takes.

If you have that level of commitment, your life will change in ways you cannot foresee. We often think we know what we want or we have a vague picture of what the change will look like, although through therapy and life-transforming practices, the picture we paint often reveals unforeseen beauty.

There are many therapists and clinics that can offer some form of free therapy service for at least an initial consultation or session. We encourage you to seek help if you are struggling. The only thing more difficult than changing is being stuck in the mud and suffering. If you think you are ready, try our Free One-Session Virtual Drop-in.

There is no shortage of therapists out there. It might take time to find the right one. It is also important to consider whether you can afford it, if it is covered by your insurance or workplace benefits. It is important to consider those things and to understand what you’re working with when seeking help.