Let’s face it: therapy can feel overwhelming. Emotionally. Logistically. Financially. Existentially. There are plenty of reasons why people hesitate to go, and we get it. Here are the top 10 reasons we hear most often—and what might be happening behind those thoughts.
1.”I don’t need to pay someone to talk to. I have friends.”
Friends are irreplaceable. They’re the ones who’ve been by your side through thick and thin. But therapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about the kind of listening that’s designed for self-reflection, not shared experiences. Your therapist isn’t there to swap stories or get validation. They’re trained to notice patterns, contradictions, and feelings that might be flying under your radar. It’s not just about what happened—it’s about why it matters, and how it shows up in your life today.
2.”I take meds, so I’m good.”
Medication can be a game-changer, and we’re all for it. But meds don’t teach you how to set boundaries, navigate tough relationships, or understand why certain situations trigger you. You might feel better physically, but therapy helps you dive deeper into your emotional landscape. It’s about understanding why you feel the way you do, and learning tools for living your life with more insight and agency.
3.”Therapy is too expensive.”
We hear you. Therapy can feel like a big investment, but so is burnout, stress, and the costs of trying to handle everything on your own. If cost is a barrier, there are options like sliding scale fees or time-limited therapy that can work with your budget. Don’t let finances stop you from exploring what’s available.
4.“I don’t have time.”
Of course, you’re busy. Life feels like it’s always on fast-forward, especially in today’s world. But if everything feels like it’s piling up and you can’t find the time for therapy, it could be a sign that something’s already giving. Therapy isn’t just about finding time—it’s about understanding what’s draining you, and what you can do about it. In the long run, taking that hour for yourself might save you more time than you realize.
5.”My problems aren’t that bad. Other people have it worse.”
This is a classic case of emotional comparison. Not needing immediate medical attention doesn’t mean you skip the doctor’s appointment. The same applies to mental health. Your feelings, struggles, and challenges are valid, no matter where they fall on the “pain scale.” You deserve care and attention, even if others seem to have it worse.
6.”If I go to therapy, it means I’m broken.”
Needing support doesn’t mean something’s wrong with you. It means you’re human. Therapy is not about fixing something “broken”—it’s about growth, understanding, and learning to navigate life with more clarity and purpose. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
7.”I wouldn’t have anything to say.”
You might be surprised by what comes up when you give yourself the space to explore. Silence is absolutely welcome in therapy. If you’re not sure what you want to talk about, that’s okay too. Starting with “I don’t even know where to begin” is actually a great place to start. Therapy is a space to explore without expectations or pressure.
8.”I’m not going there.”
Sometimes, what we avoid is exactly where the healing happens. If the idea of addressing certain topics feels daunting, remember, you don’t have to dive into everything right away. Therapists are trained to work at your pace, and they can help you gently explore what feels most pressing—without pushing you past your comfort zone.
9.”The past is in the past.”
Sure, the past may seem far behind you. But it has a funny way of popping up in the present. If you find yourself stuck in old patterns or reacting in ways that don’t make sense, there might be some unfinished business lurking. Therapy helps you recognize and reframe those old stories, so you can move forward with more peace and freedom.
10. “I had a terrible experience in therapy.”
A negative therapy experience can feel like a huge setback. It’s normal to feel disillusioned or hesitant after a bad fit. But reflecting on what didn’t work can help you find what would work. The right therapist can make a world of difference, and a good fit can transform your experience. Don’t give up on the process—finding the right relationship matters.
Therapy is a Journey, Not a Destination
The road to therapy might be a little bumpy at first, but it’s worth it. If any of these thoughts have kept you from reaching out, know that you’re not alone. Therapy isn’t just for times of crisis—it’s a tool for growth, healing, and making sense of the world around you.