Are You Ready For Therapy? 6 Things to Consider Before Starting Your Journey

September 18, 2024 Kirsten Mascarenas

By Melody Wright, LMFT

**This post may contain affiliate links, which means we'll receive a commission if you purchase through our link, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure here.

You’ve been thinking about therapy for a while now, but something keeps holding you back. Is it the time commitment? The financial investment? Or maybe you’re unsure if you’re ready to dig deep. If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone—starting therapy is a big decision, and it’s okay to feel a little unsure.

Deciding to start therapy is a powerful and brave step toward taking care of your mental and emotional well-being. It’s natural to feel a little unsure about what to expect. Therapy can be transformative, and like any worthwhile journey, it requires thought and preparation. It’s not just about sitting in a room and talking—it’s about committing to your personal growth, and that can feel overwhelming at times.

Let’s break down a few important things to think about before you start. These aren’t meant to discourage you, but rather to give you a sense of what you’re stepping into, so you can feel empowered when the time comes. Here are 6 things to consider before beginning your therapy journey.

Emotional Readiness 💗

Therapy asks you to go inward, possibly to places you’ve avoided for a long time. This can be both liberating and challenging, but your therapist is there to support you as you navigate the new terrain.

Ask yourself: Am I ready to explore some uncomfortable or painful parts of myself?

It's okay if the answer isn’t a resounding "yes" right now. Being emotionally ready for therapy doesn't mean you have everything figured out or feel totally confident—few people do at the beginning!

The truth is, therapy can stir up feelings you didn’t even know were there, and it’s important to have an understanding that this can happen. But keep in mind, it’s okay to take things one step at a time. Progress is gradual, and therapists are trained to guide you at a pace that feels right for you. You are in control of your sessions.

Time Investment ⏰

Please know that therapy isn’t a one-session fix. Think of it like training for a marathon—it takes time, dedication, and persistence. Most people start with weekly sessions and for some people, it can take months, or even longer, to work through what you need to. And that’s okay!

Ask yourself: Am I ready to commit to weekly therapy sessions to invest in my well-being?

You’ll need to carve out time for the sessions, but also for the mental and emotional work that continues outside of the therapy space. Growth doesn’t only happen in that 50-minute session. Many times, you’ll notice changes and increased self-awareness happen when you’re not in session.

It’s important to remember that the time you invest in therapy is time invested in you. It’s about creating a space where you can prioritize your well-being.

Financial CommitmenT💵

Let’s be real—therapy can be expensive. Whether you have insurance that covers it, or you’re paying out of pocket, it’s important to consider whether therapy fits into your budget. Some therapists offer sliding scales based on income, and some community mental health centers provide more affordable options.

Ask yourself: What is my weekly therapy budget? How much money can I commit to investing in my emotional and mental well-being?

That being said, therapy is an investment and it’s important to remember that it’s not just about the cost of a session, but also about the potential benefits that will affect your overall quality of life. If therapy feels out of reach financially, consider exploring other support systems like group therapy, free resources, or low-cost mental health clinics. We understand that finances are a stress point for many people right now. If you would like more information on how to manage your finances mindfully, check out our blog Mastering Mindful Spending: The Key to Financial Freedom in the Modern Age.

Finding the Right Therapist 🤝

You’re not going to click with everyone. Not every therapist is going to be the right fit, and that’s okay. You might need to try a few therapists before you find someone who feels like the right match. It’s kind of like dating—you’re looking for someone who gets you, who makes you feel comfortable, and who you can trust.

Ask yourself: Do I feel comfortable enough with this therapist to open up and be vulnerable?

The connection you have with your therapist plays a huge role in how effective therapy will be for you. Don’t be discouraged if it takes time to find the right person. It’s worth the effort to find someone you can truly open up to.

Expect Progress, Not Perfection 📈

Please know that therapy isn’t about “fixing” yourself because you are not broken. What’s broken is society’s approach to trying to segment everyone into nice, neat, predefined boxes, with labels that try to make a statement about you without giving you the chance to be heard and honor your unique being.

The truth is, there has never been anyone in history who is exactly like you -- who has your unique skills, your talents, your style, your beliefs, and your ambitions. Nor will there ever be another you.

Coming to therapy is about learning to understand yourself better, manage stress, and develop healthier habits. Sometimes progress will feel slow. You might even feel like you’re taking steps backward at times, and that can be frustrating.

Ask yourself: Am I willing to embrace slow, steady progress and be patient with myself along the way?

Growth isn’t always a straight line, especially when it comes to starting therapy. Therapy is about progress, not perfection. Be patient with yourself—healing takes time. Celebrate the small victories, and trust that change is happening, even when it’s hard to see in the moment.

Know Why You Want To Start Therapy 🎯

Finally, it’s helpful to ask yourself why you want to start therapy. Are you dealing with a specific issue, like anxiety, depression, or a difficult life transition? Or are you hoping to develop healthier habits, manage stress better, or just understand yourself on a deeper level?

Ask yourself: What’s my motivation for seeking therapy right now, and what do I hope to gain from this journey?

Being clear about your motivations can help you stay focused, especially when therapy gets challenging. It’s not about having all the answers, but knowing what’s pushing you toward this journey will give you a sense of direction. If you're feeling unsure about starting therapy, check out our blog - When To Seek Help: 10 Indicators It's Time to Start Therapy.

Final Reflections

Remember you don’t have to have it all figured out. It’s okay if you’re feeling uncertain about therapy. It’s a big step, and it’s normal to have questions or doubts. The important thing is that you’re considering it—and that’s a sign you’re ready to start exploring the possibility. Therapy is a journey, and like any journey, the most important thing is just taking that first step, wherever you are.

By thinking about your emotional readiness, the time and financial investment, and finding a therapist who feels like the right fit, you’re already setting yourself up for success. It’s a process, and you don’t have to do it alone. You’ve got this!

This Week’s Affirmations

I am open to exploring and understanding my emotions.
It’s okay to take therapy one step at a time; progress is a journey, not a race.
I am ready to embrace the process of self-discovery and growth.
I am worthy of investing time and effort into my mental health and personal growth.
I trust that every step I take in therapy is a step toward a better version of myself.

Additional Resources

**If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge on self-growth, check out these books below:

**Some product links are affiliate links, which means we'll receive a commission if you purchase through our link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.

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