Do I need therapy?
It’s a question many people ask. Perhaps you're functioning well on the surface by going to work, seeing friends, holding things together. But under the surface, something feels… off. You're not sure if it’s “bad enough” to seek help as it seems dramatic, or even perhaps, self indulgent.
The truth is, therapy isn’t just for breakdowns or traumatic events. You don’t have to wait until you’re at rock bottom to benefit from it. In fact, the earlier you reach out, the more space you give yourself to grow, heal and understand what's going on underneath the everyday .
Signs you might benefit from therapy
Here are a few gentle prompts to consider. You don’t need to tick every box. Even just one or two might be enough to explore further.
You feel anxious, low, overwhelmed or stuck and you're not sure why
You’re finding it hard to manage emotions and could be crying more easily, snapping at others, feeling numb
You’re noticing patterns in your relationships that leave you feeling drained or unseen
You’ve been through something difficult, recently or a long time ago, that you haven’t had space to process
You want to understand yourself better, develop more self-compassion, or make a meaningful change in your life
“But other people have it worse…”
This is something which I hear a lot. That voice that says, “You’re being dramatic. Others are struggling more. You should be able to cope.” But therapy isn’t a competition! Your pain, confusion, or self-doubt is totally valid, no matter what someone else is going through. If something is bothering you, that’s reason enough to talk about it.
What therapy can offer
Therapy isn’t about ‘fixing’ you. It’s about creating a safe, reflective space where you can untangle what’s going on, at your pace, without judgement. Sometimes it’s a relief just to speak openly and be heard. Other times, it can feel like shining a light into corners you’ve been avoiding, but that light can bring warmth and understanding.
Over time, therapy can help you:
Feel more in tune with your emotions
Build healthier boundaries and relationships
Make sense of past experiences
Find new ways of coping and moving forward
Reconnect with your values, strengths and sense of self
Trust your gut
If you're reading this and something in you is curious, that could be your sign. You don’t need permission to look after yourself and you definitely don’t need all the answers before you start.
Whether you're working through something specific or just sense that life could feel a bit different, therapy can give you space to explore, reflect and breathe.
Whenever you're ready, I’m here.
With warmth,
Sian 🙏🏼
Inner Space Counselling