Are You Unsure About Going to Therapy? 5 Concerns We Hope to Clear Up for You!

We have come a long way in reducing the stigma around therapy. In the last decade alone, the rise of social media platforms and rapid information sharing has helped open up the concept of therapy to people who may not have previously considered it.

Even though the stigma has greatly reduced, it can still be scary to start the process of going to therapy. Our own culture, family history, and fear of being judged or misunderstood can leave us questioning whether it is the right choice.

Many of these concerns are more common than you think! Part of the human experience is that we have similar hesitations and fears. With that said, here are some common concerns that we hope to clear up for you!

Will my therapist accept me for who I am?

Yes! Techniques, and science aside, we learn to gradually build solid rapport with our clients. It is not our job judge, but rather to look at each person and their issues from a strengths-based approach. Are there some issues we would like to help you change, especially if they are unhealthy for you? Yes, absolutely, because that is why you are seeking treatment. However we have no desire to change WHO you are. Our goal is to help you become a healthier, less stressed, more balanced version of YOU.

Will my therapist get scared off or stressed by what I have to say?

The short answer is, we hear a lot. We work with people of all walks of life- from people who have experienced the most gut-wrenching abuse and warfare, to people navigating the very real stress of life changes. Although the things that are causing you distress are very unique to you, we have likely worked with some version of what you have experienced. Some, but not all, issues are best addressed by a therapist who specializes in that specific area. Although a good therapist will not be “scared off” by your personal history, a good therapist will still know when it is better to refer you to someone else, based on the nature of the issue.

My friend gave me the advice their therapist gave them, but I don’t feel like it applies to me. Are all therapists the same?

Along with the more open talks about mental health nowadays, we also find that people are sharing what was discussed in their therapy sessions. This is not a bad thing, you can share whatever you want! However, the techniques we use and the “troubleshooting” we do are highly customized to you as an individual. We take into account your personal history, your family’s history, your culture, your biological predispositions, your medical history, your patterns of behavior, your current socio-economic status, your current legal status, and much, much more. So the solutions we are working on in one session, cannot be directly transferred over to another unique individual with a whole different situation. We do not use a one size fits all approach. There are an infinite number of ways to find a solution, and that is what makes therapy so profound!

All therapists are different. We may operate similarly, and follow the same rules and ethics, however we have our own personalities that will inevitably show up in session. Only you will know if the therapist’s mannerisms and style will click for you.

What if I don’t feel like I click with my therapist?

We don’t expect to be everyone’s cup of tea. If you have a good therapist, they will NOT be offended if you share that you are not feeling a connection. We are trained extensively to be able to look at your needs objectively. Most therapists are more than happy to help you find someone else who can help. We are aware that if you are not feeling comfortable, or not feeling a connection, then therapy will be difficult to commit to and engage in.

However, if you realize you have hopped around with several therapists and find yourself feeling unable to connect, then you may want to reconsider some things. Perhaps you naturally have some challenges “clicking” with a lot of people in life, and perhaps this is a potential issue to look into. Perhaps you need a therapist who has more experience in your unique needs. Perhaps therapy is simply not the right choice for you at this moment in time.

Fortunately, there are many ways to continue finding solutions when you don’t feel a “click” or connection.

Therapy must be so expensive. What if I don’t have the income for it?

This is a valid concern for many people, and we hope to be able to assist. Helping Moon Counseling is in-network with many insurance plans. Each plan is different, so it is always important to check your benefits with your insurance provider before committing to ongoing therapy sessions.

If you do not have insurance or if you choose not to use it due to a high copay or deductible, then we have several talented therapists who are working towards licensure, who may be able to offer a sliding scale.

Some employers also offer EAP benefits, and Helping Moon Counseling is in network with some of the EAP programs.

There are often ways to reduce the cost of therapy, with a bit more research and planning. If there is ever a service that cannot be provided, Helping Moon Counseling will go the extra mile to refer you to other providers or clinics that can potentially help!