Should I See a Therapist?

How to know when therapy would be beneficial?

Julie Anderson, RP (Q)
Registered Psychotherapist at Online Therapy Centre

Your life is filled with unexpected challenges and navigating their complexities can often seem overwhelming. While coping with your personal struggles, relationship issues, or mental health concerns, you might wonder if you’d benefit from seeing a therapist. Let’s look at some factors which might help to inform your decision.

Researching and securing professional help is empowering and is the first step to feeling better. Therapists provide the necessary tools and support to help better navigate life’s sudden ups and downs. Online Therapy Centre offers their clients a convenient and accessible way to connect with a licensed mental health professional any time of day, from the comfort of your home.

But when is the right time to seek out a therapist? How can you know if you’ll benefit from therapy? Below are some of the most common issues which bring people to mental health clinics such as Online Therapy Centre.

Dr. Stephanie Hayes, Ph.D., C. Psych.,
Psychologist at Online Therapy Centre

1.​ Persistent Emotional Distress

If you’re experiencing persistent emotional distress, such as ongoing sadness, anxiety, anger, or feelings of hopelessness, you may benefit from securing professional assistance. If your emotions interfere with your daily life, your relationships, and work, then receiving guidance from a therapist can be instrumental in understanding and managing your feelings.

2.​ Difficulty Coping with Life Transitions

It’s normal for life transitions to trigger stress and uncertainty. Major changes such as starting a new job, getting married, becoming a parent, or dealing with the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. A therapist can provide valuable support during these transitions, helping you process your emotions, adapt to change, and find a new sense of balance.

Online Therapy Centre offers private counselling sessions with experienced mental health professionals from the comfort of your own home.

3.​ Strained Relationships

Relationships are a cornerstone of human life, and when you encounter difficulties that threaten close bonds, it can take a toll on your emotional well-being. If communication breakdowns, frequent conflicts, or a general feeling of being ‘disconnected’ persists, it can be damaging to your relationship. Couples therapy or family therapy provide a safe space to address underlying issues and foster healthier connections.

4.​ Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

If you’re engaging in harmful coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, excessive gambling, or self-harm, therapists can explore your psyche to expose deeper emotional struggles that require professional attention. A licensed therapist can provide healthier coping strategies and provide the necessary support to help you overcome your challenges.

5.​ Lingering Trauma or Past Wounds

If you have unresolved trauma or past experiences which continue to affect your life, and which lead to anxiety, depression, or a sense of being stuck, a therapist trained in trauma-focused therapy can help guide you through the healing process and allow you to move forward and live a more fulfilling life.

6.​Loss of Interest and Motivation

Do you notice a significant decline in interest or motivation in activities that once brought joy and fulfillment? This might be a sign of degrading emotional or mental health. Therapy can help you rediscover your passion, set achievable goals, and regain a sense of purpose in your life.

7. ​Persistent Negative Thought Patterns

Negative thought patterns, such as self-criticism, pessimism, or feelings of worthlessness, can significantly impact overall well-being. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help you challenge and reframe your negative thoughts to foster a more positive mindset.

The Benefits of Seeking a Therapist

Engaging in therapy can offer numerous benefits, including:

• ​Emotional Support: Therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space to express emotions and thoughts freely.
• ​Personal Growth: Therapy can facilitate self-discovery and personal growth, helping individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves.
• ​Enhanced Coping Skills: Therapists equip individuals with effective coping mechanisms to navigate life’s challenges and stressors.
• ​Improved Relationships: Couples and family therapy can strengthen communication and promote healthier relationships.
• ​Mental Health Management: Therapy offers tools to manage mental health conditions and improve overall well-being.

Deciding to engage in therapy sessions can offer many benefits.

Deciding to seek therapy is a personal choice and the first step towards self-care and emotional well-being. If you find yourself grappling with emotional distress, relationship challenges, or personal difficulties that affect your daily life, seeking the guidance of a therapist can be transformative. A licensed mental health professional can provide valuable support, helping you navigate through life’s obstacles and empowering you to lead a more fulfilling and balanced life. Reaching out for help is a sign of strength. With the right support, positive change and growth are within reach.

Photo Credits

Man with laptop – Adobe stock photos
Woman with laptop – Adobe stock photos
All other images are courtesy of the author

Guest Author Bio
Laura Lord

Meet Laura Lord, our guest author who wears multiple hats at the Online Therapy Centre (OTC). With her prominent role as the Director of Operations and Intake Specialist, Laura brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the mental health field.

Director of Operations and Intake Specialist at Online Therapy Centre.

For years, Laura has been assisting clients in their journey towards emotional well-being. Her expertise lies in matching individuals with the perfect therapist and ensuring a seamless booking process for their initial therapy sessions. Beyond that, she remains a constant source of support, addressing their queries and concerns with unmatched compassion.

Laura has an inspiring thirst for knowledge. Currently working towards her master’s degree in social work at the University of Waterloo, she continues to expand her horizons and deepen her understanding of human behavior.

As the first point of contact at OTC, Laura embraces her role with enthusiasm, warmly welcoming and guiding those who seek help. Her innate ability to connect with people on a profound level enables her to navigate the intricacies of their lives, ensuring they receive the best care possible from our team of psychologists and psychotherapists.

Life as a Human is privileged to have Laura Lord share her insights and experiences with our readers. Through her writing, she offers a unique perspective on mental health and the transformative power of therapy. Her dedication to improving lives and her unwavering commitment to her craft make her a beacon of hope and inspiration for all.

Join us as we delve into the world of mental health with Laura’s articles, where her words will undoubtedly resonate with those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

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