The decision for someone to start therapy for the first time can be a scary prospect. There are many unknowns about what therapy involves, how long it might take, how much it might cost, and whether therapy can actually help you. From outside looking in, it can be difficult to envision the potential benefits and positive outcomes from therapy.
We’re here to ease your anxiety about this major decision.
Take a look at some of the common fears that people hesitate about, prior to starting therapy. Once you narrow down to the exact concern that’s worrying you, you’re then able to address it much better.
Here are some of the common concerns before starting therapy:
1. Can I afford a therapist?
The most common question about starting therapy seems to be about how much it would cost. Therapy can be expensive, however most health insurance services cover the costs of the sessions, although some might require a small co-pay. Don’t hesitate to check in with your insurance company to get specific details about the type of coverage you have, and their in-network and out-of-network options available to you. In addition, many therapists are willing to discuss a sliding scale for paying out-of-pocket, based on your ability to pay and/or your possible discomfort of having a mental health diagnosis on record.
2. What would my friends think?
Social stigma is another common fear for many people. They’re afraid they might be judged harshly by their friends and family for admitting that they need help and for seeking therapy. Despite growing awareness of the benefits of therapy, in some cultures and communities, there might still be shame attached to asking for help. You may alert people to sites like NAMI or Mental Health America to educate your family members and friends. More importantly, when you start by changing your own perspective about therapy, you can educate the people around you as well.
3. Is he/she the right therapist for me?
It’s a valid concern for someone whether the therapist they will work with understands them and their unique struggles. One way to address this question is to take a look at the therapist’s areas of expertise, and whether they work with issues such as yours. Another point to check on is their availability. And lastly, you may be able to request to talk to the therapist, which can give you an idea of what it might be like working with them, and you might even leave with a strong hunch about whether you like the person or not.
4. Will it take a lot of time?
Contrary to popular belief, the frequency and duration of how long you might need therapy can be discussed with your therapist, and any decisions you make is ultimately decided by the patient. There are a wide range of treatment durations, from short term consultations, to longer term therapy. You should be able to discuss your individual goals with your therapist. Although the amount of time varies with the issues and the individuals, working with a good therapist should be able to help you deal with (or solve) your issues.
5. Does therapy actually help?
Yes! There have been several scientific studies that show that good therapy can work well for treating mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, as well as emotional issues such as marital problems or behavioral issues. Therapy can also teach you skills to cope with your issues, such as EFT, CBT and/or Mindfulness to use on your own. In fact, therapy can often be the fastest, most effective way to overcome your mental, emotional or behavioral issues and help you live the life you want.
