Do I need therapy?

We know that when we are in crisis, talking to a therapist is a must. So why do we doubt it at other times?

July 9, 2025

By Aviva Boxer, Registered Psychotherapist

How do you know if you need therapy? Spoiler alert - you do! Because we all do. Let me explain.

Do I need therapy?

This is the inevitable question that comes up when we are at that specific crossroads where things in life have tipped into the zone of emotional overwhelm. It always seems to be in these moments that we question whether therapy would help. 

We know that when we are in crisis, talking to a therapist is a must - having a safe place to share our feelings helps us feel less alone, vent and process, and just be our messy, intense and sometimes-hysterical selves and still be accepted and tended to with empathy and care. When we are in crisis, going to therapy is a clear yes. So why do we doubt it at other times?

When you start asking yourself whether you need therapy, it’s a good indication that you do!

“Everyone needs a therapist.”

When I was a newspaper editor, one of my favourite sayings was: “Everyone needs an editor.” And of course now that I am a therapist, you guessed it, I will often say: “Everyone needs a therapist.” To me, going to therapy is essential for personal growth and maintenance of good mental health - this is how we can explore our feelings in a concentrated, positive and productive way. It is akin to having a personal trainer or even simply a workout routine. You have probably heard this parallel before - you don’t go to the gym and just start lifting super heavy weights. You work up to it.

Sometimes to blow off steam you might do some sprinting on the treadmill. When you have had a stressful day at work or you finally have some alone time without the kids, a short power workout will be a huge and quick release. But it is the slow and consistent exercise routines that will get you to that fitness goal more completely over time. 

The same is true for therapy - the intense therapy that we accept as essential in a crisis will help a lot in the moment, which is important in getting through that crisis. But the long-haul type of therapy, where you see your therapist weekly or biweekly, consistently and over time,  will help you explore core issues, process feelings and release burdens that have likely been weighing on you since childhood.

So, do you agree that we all need therapy? Or are you still having doubts? What is stopping you from starting?

Below are some common doubts and helpful reframes when it comes to starting therapy:

“Other people have it worse. I should be able to handle this.”
Reframe: Pain is not a competition. If you're struggling, you deserve support — regardless of how your experience compares to someone else’s.

“I’m just being dramatic. I’ll get over it.”
Reframe: Minimizing your emotions doesn’t make them go away — it often makes them more intense. Therapy is a safe space to take yourself seriously and be heard.

“I should be able to figure this out on my own.”
Reframe: Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a form of strength and self-respect. Even therapists have therapists.

“Talking about it won’t change anything.”
Reframe: Talking is often the first step toward change. It creates clarity, insight, and the opportunity for new ways of thinking and coping.

“Therapy is for people with serious problems.”
Reframe: Therapy is for anyone who wants to feel better, grow, or make sense of life. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit.

Are you still unsure? Here are 5 things to consider, when asking yourself if you need therapy:

1. You're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained.
   If your usual coping strategies aren’t working and you feel constantly anxious, sad, or emotionally exhausted, therapy can help you explore what’s going on and find relief.
   

2. You notice patterns that are holding you back.
   Whether it’s repeating unhealthy relationship dynamics, self-sabotaging behaviours, or persistent negative self-talk — therapy helps you break patterns and build healthier ones.
   

3. Life transitions feel hard to navigate.
   Big changes like a breakup, loss, job change, becoming a parent, or aging can bring up unexpected emotions. Therapy offers space to process and adapt.
   

4. You feel disconnected — from others or yourself.
   If you’re withdrawing from relationships or not feeling like “yourself,” therapy can support you in reconnecting with your identity and sense of purpose.
   

5. You’re curious about personal growth.
   You don’t need to be in crisis to seek therapy. If you're interested in getting to know yourself better, building emotional resilience, or improving your relationships, therapy can be a valuable tool.

   If you want to do the inner work, strengthen your self-worth, self-compassion and find a greater sense of peace, we are here for you. You can connect with us online to book a free consultation and match up with a therapist who will be your partner and guide every step of the way.

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