Why Starting Therapy Can Feel So Hard—and Why It’s Worth It

Nov 18

I often hear from potential clients that taking the step to book a consultation felt daunting. It is a brave act to open yourself up to someone you don’t yet know. Beginning therapy can bring up many emotions that feel overwhelming at first. People wonder whether the therapist will truly understand them or be able to help. They worry about being judged. Some even feel guilt or shame for not being able to handle everything on their own.

I encourage people to think of therapy as learning a new skill—and the therapist as someone who guides you through that learning process. Like any new skill, it comes with challenges. But those challenges don’t diminish its value. With time, patience, and support, the process becomes deeply meaningful and worthwhile.

For those entering therapy for the first time, the challenge often lies in doing things differently. It means stepping out of autopilot and taking a closer look at your inner world—feelings of loneliness, anxiety, sadness, resentment, and everything in between. In the beginning, slowing down and making space for emotions you’ve stuffed away can feel unfamiliar, awkward, or even painful. But it’s through naming and recognizing these patterns that we create the possibility for real change and begin moving toward the light.

For others entering therapy for the first time, the fear often centers around setting boundaries. Many people know that boundaries are necessary, yet they struggle with how to set them and worry about the what-ifs. This is where a clinician can guide you through the more challenging steps. Don’t let fear stand in the way of achieving a healthier mental state.

Below are some helpful questions you can ask a clinician to feel more confident in your choice: