Is Therapy for me?

If you’re reading my blog, you’re likely asking yourself the question: "Is therapy for me?" The short answer is that it depends. While many would say yes, I believe therapy's success hinges on one crucial factor: your own willingness to commit. It can't be a box-ticking exercise forced on you by someone else. True change requires a deep, personal dive into your own thoughts and feelings—a commitment you can only make for yourself.

I say this from experience. When I first sought therapy, I was convinced it wasn't for me. The idea of opening up to a stranger, even a professional, felt awkward and cringe-worthy. My goal wasn't personal growth; I was simply curious about the field of psychology. Despite my struggles and knowing something needed to change, I thought, "Therapy is fine for others, but it's not my path."

Yet, that first conversation shifted everything. There was no sudden epiphany, but I found myself speaking with a stranger who showed me kindness and empathy, not judgment for my shortcomings. She didn't offer easy answers but provided support, guiding me as I began to understand myself better.

Looking back, I'm amazed I didn't try it sooner. The self-awareness I've gained could have been so beneficial during my younger adult years. Life can feel like walking through the woods as dusk settles in; the light is dim, and the path ahead is confusing. For me, therapy has been like a headlamp. It doesn't change the woods, but it illuminates the path where I choose to point it—to the past to understand, or to the future to navigate.

If this resonates with you, taking the gentle step of looking for a therapist could be a powerful start to your own journey.

This is why I believe that answering "Is therapy for me?" is a personal decision. It can't be a process you're pushed into. You need the willingness to receive it and the mental bandwidth to comprehend it. It takes time to internalize the work, uncover the parts of you that need healing, and truly grow.