By:  Susan Somogyi

It is common to wonder whether you’re ready for therapy; however, know that many people don’t feel ready when they start. Therapy can feel intimidating, uncomfortable, and even frightening. That hesitation is normal, and it doesn’t mean therapy isn’t right for you.

If you’re anxious about therapy, that’s okay. In fact, therapists expect it. There’s a saying among therapists: “start where the client is at”. If fear, doubt, or hesitation is where you’re at, that’s a reasonable place to begin. You don’t have to push past your fears before starting therapy. You can talk about them as your starting point.

A good therapist will help you name your worries, understand what feels uncomfortable or scary, and work with you to make the process feel safer and more manageable. Therapy isn’t about forcing yourself through discomfort alone. It’s about moving forward together, one step at a time.

When Therapy Feels Harder Than You Expected

Therapy can be emotionally demanding. Talking about difficult thoughts and feelings can sometimes make things feel worse before they feel better. That doesn’t mean therapy isn’t working; it often means something important is being uncovered.

If you find yourself repeatedly dreading sessions, cancelling appointments, or not showing up, it’s worth paying attention. Sometimes this means the timing isn’t right. Other times, it means the therapist isn’t the right fit.

Talking openly with your therapist about these feelings is important. Many barriers can be worked through together. And if they can’t, it’s okay to pause or look for a different therapist. That’s part of the process.

You Don’t Have to Have It Figured Out

You don’t need to come to therapy with answers, insight, or a clear explanation of what’s wrong. That’s part of the therapist’s role. Your job is simply to show up and be willing to get a little uncomfortable for the sake of change.

If you’re ready to make a commitment to yourself , or to the people you care about, because you want something better, that’s often enough. And if you later realize it’s not the right time, it’s okay to stop or take a break. Therapy is a journey, not a test you pass or fail. Taking the first step is often the hardest part. And while it isn’t always easy, good therapy is worth the effort