Taking the first step toward therapy can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or self-doubt. Questions about the process, costs, and what to expect are normal and valid. Misconceptions about therapy can also create unnecessary barriers to seeking help. This guide aims to provide clarity and answer common questions, helping you make an informed decision about prioritizing your mental health.
Therapy FAQS and Misconceptions
FAQs About Therapy
1. What happens in a therapy session?
Each therapy session is tailored to your unique needs. During our time together, you can expect a safe, non-judgmental space where we explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Sessions may include discussing current struggles, unpacking past experiences, and identifying tools to help you move forward. There’s no right or wrong way to approach therapy—this is your space to heal at your own pace.
2. What does it mean to be a self-pay, out-of-network practice?
In a self-pay practice, clients pay directly for services rather than billing through insurance. This allows for greater flexibility and confidentiality. Many clients choose self-pay therapy because it eliminates insurance limitations on the number of sessions or types of treatment covered. While I don’t accept insurance directly, I can provide a superbill for you to submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement under out-of-network benefits.
3. How long does therapy take?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Some clients find relief and clarity in just a few months, while others benefit from ongoing sessions over a longer period. The length of therapy depends on your goals, the challenges you’re facing, and how deeply you wish to explore your experiences. Healing, especially from trauma or perfectionism, is a journey—not a race.
4. What if I’m not sure therapy is for me?
It’s common to feel uncertain about starting therapy. Many people wonder if their struggles are "serious enough" or if they’ll feel comfortable sharing their feelings. Therapy isn’t just for crises; it’s a space to understand yourself, build resilience, and live more authentically. If you’re unsure, consider scheduling an initial consultation to explore whether therapy feels like a good fit for you.
5. How do I know if a therapist is right for me?
A strong therapeutic relationship is key to effective healing. It’s important to find a therapist whose approach aligns with your needs. I specialize in helping clients recover from religious trauma, perfectionism, and shame, using a warm and compassionate approach. During our first sessions, we’ll discuss your goals and concerns to ensure that our work together feels comfortable and supportive.
Addressing Common Misconceptions About Therapy
1. “Therapy is only for people with serious problems.”
This is one of the biggest myths about therapy. While therapy is invaluable for addressing significant mental health concerns, it’s also a powerful tool for personal growth. Many clients seek therapy to explore self-doubt, build healthier relationships, or embrace vulnerability. Therapy can help anyone seeking to understand themselves better.
2. “Talking about the past won’t help me.”
Your past shapes how you think, feel, and react today. Exploring past experiences can help uncover patterns that no longer serve you. By understanding your story, you can begin to rewrite it and find freedom from old wounds.
3. “Therapists will judge me or think I’m weak.”
As your therapist, my goal is to support and empower you, never to judge. Vulnerability is a strength, and seeking help is one of the bravest decisions you can make. This is your space to be heard, understood, and accepted—exactly as you are.
4. “Therapy is too expensive.”
While therapy is an investment, many clients find the benefits far outweigh the cost. If you’re worried about affordability, consider the long-term value of improved mental health and well-being. Additionally, self-pay practices often offer greater flexibility in scheduling and treatment approaches, ensuring you get the care you need without insurance constraints.
Therapy as a Step Toward Living Authentically
If you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or perfectionism, therapy offers a space to reconnect with yourself and embrace authenticity. It’s about more than addressing symptoms—it’s about creating a life aligned with your values, free from the weight of shame or self-doubt.
Remember, starting therapy is a courageous act of self-care. Whether you’re seeking to recover from religious trauma, challenge perfectionism, or simply find more joy and peace, know that you are not alone. Together, we can explore the challenges you face and uncover the path toward healing and fulfillment.
Ready to take the first step? Contact me today at sarahford@sarahfordcounseling.com to schedule your free initial consultation. Healing is possible, and you deserve to live a life of freedom and authenticity.
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