Therapist Truths
Starting therapy can ironically be one of the most anxiety-provoking experiences, despite its purpose being to reduce stress and improve mental health. The process of finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming. The reality is, there aren’t enough therapists available to meet the demand, which means securing an appointment might already feel like a victory. But then come the hurdles: paperwork to complete, schedules to coordinate, and the nerve-wracking anticipation of meeting someone new.
When the first session finally arrives, it’s natural for questions to flood your mind: Who is this person? Will they judge me? Will they be kind? Or my personal favorite: Will I even have enough to say to fill an entire hour—or will I just bore them? These thoughts are common and valid.
So, what is it like to start a journey with most therapists, including me? Let’s break it down with some truths:
Being Present
Often, people come to sessions burdened by stress tied to the past or the future. Honestly, these imaginary spaces are where many of us get stuck—and they’re also what keep me busy and thriving in this work! But why do we stay so focused on the past? What benefits does it serve us? And, most importantly, how can we begin to shift this way of thinking?
Processing a Break Up!
Accept that you’re going to feel a profound sense of loss. It’s going to hurt—deeply. The urge to reach out will feel almost unbearable at times. You may struggle to sleep, lose your appetite, and find yourself obsessing over what went wrong. This is normal. It means you’re human, and you’re alive. But here’s the most important thing to know: it won’t always feel this awful. This is the hardest part, and it will get better—I promise. Below are reminders and steps to guide you through.
