Maybe It's Time to Talk to Someone: What You Should Know About Starting Therapy
I hear this question all the time: "Do I actually need counseling?" Usually it comes from people who've been thinking about it for months, maybe even years, but keep putting it off. Sound familiar?
Here's what I tell them: you don't have to be in the middle of a major crisis to benefit from therapy. Most of my clients aren't dealing with anything earth-shattering. They're just regular people trying to handle life's curveballs a little better.
Why People Actually Come to Therapy
Let me paint you a picture of who walks through my door:
The woman who just got promoted but feels completely overwhelmed. The guy whose relationship ended and he's not sure how to date again. Parents figuring out how to balance work and kids without losing their minds. People who moved across the country for a job and feel lonely. Someone whose anxiety has gotten so loud they can't sleep at night.
These aren't "broken" people. They're people who recognize they could use some support and better tools for handling whatever life is throwing at them.
Sometimes we all need a judgment-free space to untangle our thoughts. That's really what therapy is - having someone in your corner who can help you see patterns you might miss and teach you skills that actually work.
Let's Talk Money (Because I Know You're Wondering)
Yeah, therapy costs money. But probably not as much as you think.
Most therapists charge between $100-150 per session if you're paying out of pocket. But here's the thing - if I'm in your insurance network, you're likely looking at a $20-40 copay. That's it.
And if you've already hit your deductible this year (which a lot of people have by now), your cost might be even lower. Plus, you can usually use your HSA or FSA card if you have one.
How to Figure Out Your Insurance Coverage
Don't let insurance confusion stop you. Here's how to get answers fast:
Call that number on the back of your insurance card. Ask them: "Is [therapist's name] in my network for mental health services?" They'll tell you exactly what you'll pay.
You can also check your insurance company's website - they usually have a provider search tool. Or just ask the therapist directly. Most of us are happy to help you figure out the money stuff before you even schedule.
Quick insurance vocabulary:
Deductible: What you pay before insurance kicks in
Copay: Your flat fee per session (usually $20-40)
Coinsurance: You and insurance split the cost after you hit your deductible
What If I Don't Need Long-Term Therapy?
Perfect. Not everyone does.
Plenty of my clients come for just a few sessions to work through something specific, learn some new coping strategies, or get clarity on a decision they're facing. Others check in seasonally when work gets crazy or life gets heavy.
There's no rule that says you have to commit to months of therapy. Come for as long as it helps, take a break when you need to, and come back if something else comes up. It's really that simple.
The Real Reason to Consider Therapy
You know how you maintain your car so it doesn't break down on the highway? Think of therapy the same way, but for your mental health.
You don't have to wait until everything falls apart. Actually, it's often easier to work through stuff before it becomes overwhelming. Getting ahead of stress, relationship issues, or major life changes just makes sense.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you've been on the fence about therapy, maybe this is your sign to stop overthinking it. The worst that happens is you try a few sessions and decide it's not for you right now. The best that happens? You get some tools, perspective, and support that make everything else a little easier.
Have questions about getting started or want to know more about how therapy actually works? Finding a local therapist near you who specializes in what you’re looking for by googling “Therapist near me”.. or better yet “Therapist who specializes in anxiety (or depression, or trauma, etc.) near me.” . Good luck!
