Taking the first step toward addressing mental health concerns can feel daunting. Many people hesitate to start therapy, unsure of what to expect or how to find the right therapist. In this blog, we’ll explore practical advice for navigating this process and overcoming common challenges, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in achieving mental health goals.

The Importance of the Therapeutic Relationship

The bond between a therapist and client is foundational to the success of therapy. A strong therapeutic relationship fosters trust, collaboration, and mutual understanding, all of which are crucial for working toward personal goals. As Jessica, a psychotherapist, points out:

"The therapeutic relationship is so important to the process—both for feeling comfortable initially and for collaborating to identify goals and work towards them."

Advice for Finding the Right Therapist

One of the most common hurdles is finding a therapist who feels like the right fit. Andi encourages individuals to remain open to trying out multiple therapists:

"Don’t be afraid to meet with two, three, or even four different therapists to see if you click with someone."

This process can take time, but it’s worth the effort to find a therapist you trust and feel comfortable with. Kathleen, a trained Social Worker who supports client experiences with Reset Counselling & Psychotherapy empathizes with clients who have had negative experiences:

"I have so much empathy for people who tried therapy, didn’t click with the first or second therapist, and then decided it doesn’t work. But if I could tell people one thing before they go in the therapy room, it’s that in therapy you need to keep looking until you find the right match."

Managing Expectations and Financial Considerations

Starting therapy can also be intimidating due to financial concerns. With therapy costs often exceeding $150 per session, it’s natural to want value for your investment. Jessica offers practical advice for those navigating this reality:

"If money is tight, you can space out your sessions or implement other mental health resources such as journaling and podcasts to supplement therapy. Remember, it’s about meeting your therapeutic goals, not just attending sessions."

It’s essential to recognize that continuing with a therapist who isn’t a good fit is unlikely to lead to progress. If you don’t like or trust your therapist, then it will be difficult to open up and explore your thoughts and concerns. Taking the time to find the right therapist ensures that your investment in therapy is both meaningful and effective.

Additional Resources to Supplement Therapy

For those hesitant to commit to therapy due to cost or other barriers, consider exploring supplementary mental health resources. These might include e-books, support groups, or online tools designed to complement professional care. These resources can provide valuable support while you search for the right therapist or manage the frequency of your sessions.

Therapy as a Catalyst for Growth

Ultimately, therapy is about creating a space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals in a supportive environment. As Jessica reminds us:

"Therapy isn’t about being ‘sick enough.’ It’s about showing up for yourself and taking steps toward the life you want."

Starting therapy may feel overwhelming at first, but finding the right therapist can make all the difference. By remaining open to the process and prioritizing your needs, you can overcome hesitation and take meaningful steps toward mental health and well-being.

If you’re ready to begin your therapy journey or learn more about our services, visit Reset Counseling and Psychotherapy. This blog is a companion to our podcast Beyond the Session found on Spotify. To book a session, please use https://lindsaytsang.janeapp.com

Photo by Becca Tapert on Unsplash