Therapy Services in Berkeley

 

Things to Consider Before Starting Therapy

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.

Here are 6 things to consider before you start.

1. Emotional Readiness - 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.

2. Time Investment - 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.

3. Financial Commitment - 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.

4. Finding the Right Therapist - 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.

5. Expect Progress, Not Perfection - Growth isn’t always a straight line, especially when it comes to starting therapy. 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.

6. Knowing Why You Want to Start Therapy - 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.

By thinking about all of these things, 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! If you’re ready to start your therapy journey, click the link in our bio to schedule a free phone consultation today!

https://www.lifebydesigntherapy.com/therapy-phone-consultation