Do I Need Therapy?

Life can feel overwhelming sometimes, and it’s normal to wonder if therapy might be a helpful step. You don’t have to be in the midst of a crisis or at rock bottom to benefit from talking to a therapist. In fact, therapy is a tool that can support you in understanding yourself, managing challenges, and building a life that feels more balanced and fulfilling.

As a therapist specializing in anxiety, I often meet people who aren’t sure whether therapy is right for them. They might think, “Am I struggling enough to justify therapy?” or “Will therapy really help me?” If you’ve ever asked yourself those questions, you’re not alone. Let’s explore some signs that therapy could be a good fit for you—and clear up some common misconceptions along the way.

Signs You Might Benefit from Therapy

You’re Feeling Stuck
Do you ever feel like you’re spinning your wheels but not getting anywhere? Maybe you’re facing the same problems over and over, whether it’s in your relationships, your work, or your personal habits. Therapy can help you identify what’s holding you back and explore ways to move forward.
Anxiety is Interfering with Your Life
Anxiety isn’t just “worrying a lot.” It can look like racing thoughts, physical symptoms like a tight chest or upset stomach, or avoiding situations that make you uncomfortable. If anxiety is keeping you from doing things you want or need to do, therapy can provide tools to manage it.
You’re Navigating a Major Change
Life transitions—like starting a new job, moving to a new city, or ending a relationship—can be stressful. Even positive changes can bring up unexpected emotions. Therapy can help you process those feelings and adjust to your new reality.
You’re Struggling with Relationships
Whether it’s your partner, family, friends, or coworkers, relationships can be complicated. Maybe you’re finding it hard to communicate, setting boundaries feels impossible, or you’re feeling disconnected. Therapy can provide a space to unpack these dynamics and practice new ways of relating to others.
You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
Sometimes, life feels like too much. You might feel like you’re juggling a million responsibilities, or like you’re carrying a weight you can’t put down. Therapy can help you figure out what’s behind these feelings and find strategies to cope.

Misconceptions About Therapy

“Therapy is only for people with serious mental health issues.”
Not true! Therapy is for anyone who wants to better understand themselves or improve their quality of life. You don’t need a diagnosis to benefit from therapy.

“Talking to friends or family is enough.”
While friends and family can be great supports, they’re not the same as a trained therapist. Therapists are unbiased professionals who are there to focus entirely on you. They’re also trained to help you dig deeper and explore patterns or issues you might not even be aware of.

“Therapy will make me feel weak or broken.”
Seeking therapy is actually a sign of strength. It takes courage to face your challenges and take steps to address them.

“I’ll have to be in therapy forever.”
Therapy doesn’t have to be a lifelong commitment. Many people see a therapist for a few months to work on a specific issue. Others find it helpful to check in periodically. The length of therapy is entirely up to you and your goals.

What Happens in Therapy?

If you’ve never been to therapy before, you might wonder what actually happens during a session. Here’s a quick overview:

It’s a Conversation: Therapy is a space for you to talk about what’s on your mind. It’s not about being “right” or having all the answers—it’s about exploring your thoughts and feelings.
You Set the Pace: You’re in control of what you share and when. A good therapist won’t push you to talk about anything before you’re ready.
It’s Collaborative: Therapy isn’t about the therapist giving you advice or fixing your problems. Instead, it’s about working together to figure out what’s best for you.

How to Get Started

If you’re thinking about trying therapy, the first step is finding a therapist who feels like a good fit. In Chicago, there are many therapists specializing in anxiety, relationships, and other challenges. Look for someone who seems approachable and whose style resonates with you. Many therapists offer a free consultation, so you can ask questions and see if you feel comfortable with them.

Final Thoughts

Deciding to start therapy is a personal choice, and it’s okay to take your time figuring out what’s right for you. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply curious about personal growth, therapy can be a valuable resource.

Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers before you begin. Sometimes, the act of reaching out is the first step toward creating the life you want.

If you’re in the Chicago area and think therapy might be helpful, I’d love to support you. You deserve to feel calm, connected, and in control of your life. Therapy can help you get there—one step at a time.