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When is it time for therapy?

The short answer: anytime. It is never too soon, never too late and never not okay to attend therapy. But sometimes it is difficult to figure out when to prioritize the time, energy, and resources for it. For some, perhaps finding a therapist, let alone a good one is daunting or difficult. But it’s not impossible. With a little bit of research, resources and support (all of which you’ll get in this post), you will be well on your way to deciding if therapy is an option for you, whether it be now or later.

Note: If someone is in crisis, therapy and emergency services should be prioritized.

What even is therapy?

Therapy is a space in which you, all parts of you, are welcome and worthy. It is a unique, often indescribable place where you get to use it however you prefer and for whatever you need. Sometimes therapy is where your needs are discovered for the first time ever. It is a different experience for everyone, after all everyone is different regarding who they are and what they are bringing in with them.

Why attend?

There are many reasons someone may consider attending therapy, and oftentimes there isn’t just one reason. Some items that might bring someone in, in no particular order, include:

  • Grief
  • Past or recent trauma
  • Relationship mediation
  • Couple/Relationship/Family counseling
  • Boundary-setting
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Disordered Eating
  • Phobia(s)
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD)
  • Insomnia

However, therapy is not limited to only the aforementioned items. Therapy is a space to heal, problem solve, receive an outside perspective, access your strengths, build confidence, face your faults, express yourself and acknowledge your feelings. But arguably, what it offers most is a place to simply be. How often, in this world, is our true self received and held by another, unconditionally? My hope for the future is that it is significantly more often than now, but that is one of the many gifts that therapy offers.

Is now the time?

Are there things you wish you could talk about or express that you may not feel comfortable doing so, at least not yet, with someone you know? Do you need of a space in order to process a past or recent event that is still impacting you in a way that is distracting or distressing? Are you feeling lost or unsure of your next path? Are you still wondering if therapy is for you? Below are some resources to aid in the search for a therapist near you. These sites offer filters where you can search by: presenting issues, insurance providers, location, among other items to meet your needs.

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