Why You Don’t Need a ‘Big Reason’ to Start Therapy: Here’s How to Decide to Start (Without the Guilt)
By: Suki O Huallahcain, MA, CCC | Serenity Counselling| Port Coquitlam, BC
Let’s get real : Life can feel like a never-ending game of “Am I Doing This Right?” Work stress, relationship hiccups, that nagging voice asking, “Why can’t I just be happier?” – it’s a lot.
But here’s the thing I tell everyone: You don’t need to be in “crisis mode” to deserve support. Therapy isn’t just for “rock bottom” moments. It’s for anyone who wants to hit pause on the chaos, breathe, and figure things out before they spiral.
Still on the fence? Let’s talk tools, tips, and why waiting until you’re “bad enough” is overrated.
“How Do I KNOW If I Need Therapy?”
(It’s not a quiz. Let’s simplify.)
A good time to start thinking about therapy is if…
Your brain feels like a browser with 47 tabs open .
Your inner critic sounds extra loud. “Why did you say that? Ugh, why DID you….?”
You’re Googling “Is it normal to _____?” at 2 a.m. (We’ve all been there. No judgment.)
Your physiotherapist, dentist, or doctor has mentioned that stress might be affecting your physical health.
You’re tired of white-knuckling through tough days.
Therapy isn’t about being “broken.” It’s about learning to recharge your mental battery – no crisis required.
Free Therapy Tools to Try TODAY
Because waiting for your first session doesn’t mean you’re stuck!
The “5-Minute Brain Dump”
Grab a notebook (or your phone’s Notes app). Write everything bothering you – no filter. Scream into the page if needed!
Why it works: It’s like hitting “clear cache” on your brain.
Grounding Hack for Overthinkers
5-4-3-2-1 Technique: Name 5 things you see, 4 you can touch, 3 you hear, 2 you smell, 1 you taste.
Why it works: It drags you out of the “What if?” spiral and back to the present.
The “Two-Minute Compliment”
Text/WRITE a friend: “Hey, I appreciate you because _____.”
Why it works: Connection = instant mood boost (for both of you!).
Boundary Bingo
Say “No” to ONE thing this week that drains you. (Even if it’s just skipping a Zoom happy hour.)
Why it works: Small “no’s” protect your energy for bigger “yes’s.”
What Happens in Therapy?
It’s way less intimidating than you think.
First Session : Think comfy conversation, not interrogation. We’ll talk about what’s on your mind, and I’ll share tools tailored to your life and get to know one another more.
Tools You Might Take Home:
Anxiety hacks that aren’t just basic info.
Scripts for tough conversations (roommate drama, boss talks, etc.).
Ways to treat yourself with more compassion.
For clients managing physical health challenges—such as chronic pain or recovery from injury—therapy can provide essential emotional support alongside treatments like physiotherapy. In fact, I often collaborate with local clinics like Moves You Physiotherapy to ensure clients receive integrated care that addresses both mind and body. This holistic approach can enhance recovery and build resilience.
Therapy isn’t a lifetime commitment. Some folks come for 8 sessions; others prefer 8 months. You set the pace.
Relaxed woman using mental health tools in Port Coquitlam,BC
What’s the cost of therapy?
Totally valid! Here’s my take:
I offer sliding-scale spots because mental health shouldn’t be a luxury.
Insurance? Many plans cover counselling – I’ll help you navigate the fine print.
Still unsure? Let’s chat in a free 20-minute consult to brainstorm options.
Book Your Free Consultation Here
FAQ about Therapy
Q: “What if I cry?”
A: Cry away! I’ve got tissues, zero judgment, and a 100% “No Toxic Positivity” policy.
Q: “What if I don’t have ‘trauma’?”
A: Therapy isn’t just for trauma. Let’s talk burnout, people-pleasing, or why your family group chat makes you want to move away.
Q: “Can therapy help with physical health issues?”
A: Absolutely. Chronic pain, injury recovery, and health-related anxiety often benefit from a dual approach. Collaborating with physical health professionals like those at Moves You Physiotherapy allows us to address both the emotional and physical aspects of healing.
Your Next Step (It’s Easier Than You Think)
You don’t need to be “bad enough” to ask for help. Let’s figure this out together.
P.S. Still scrolling? Let’s take that first scary step together and click that link.
