Therapy – An Act of Self-Respect
Starting therapy can feel like a big decision. For many people, its something that lingers in the background for months or even years. “I’ll start when I have more time….when the kids leave for university….once I feel better…but is it really worth it if my problems can’t be fixed?”
These are valid and common thoughts. If you struggle with low self-esteem you might even find yourself wondering, “Am I worth it?” The answer to that question is simple: Absolutely, yes! Choosing therapy is one of the clearest ways to say to yourself, “I matter, I am worth the time and care.” Just making space for yourself, to be heard, to be thought about is a powerful act of self-respect.
Therapy Isn’t About Weakness — It’s About Courage
There is a strength in showing up for yourself, week after week, even when it feels hard, and yes, sometimes it does. Therapy invites you to face yourself, not because you are broken, but because you care enough to want to understand and support yourself more deeply.
In a world where we are often encouraged to “just be grateful” or “not to dwell on the past” it is easy to feel that your struggles are not that important, especially when others are suffering too. Comparing pain rarely helps us and while tools like daily gratitude lists can be great, they should never silence what we are really feeling. Often we we end up criticising ourselves for not feeling better which can layer guilt or shame on top of what we are already carrying. Therapy offers something different: a space where your feelings can be named, understood and held with curiosity and care. A space where someone is really paying attention to you.
You Don’t Have to Be in Crisis to Come to Therapy
People come to therapy for many reasons, loneliness, grief, anxiety, depression. Sometimes these feelings aren’t always loud but they can persist. Therapy is a space where you don’t have to pretend to have it all together – and that in itself can be a relief.
Often, the things that trouble us today are rooted in events or patterns from long ago. There is no time time limit on how long something is “allowed” to affect you. It’s never too late and you are never “wrong” for feeling what you feel.
You Are Worth the Time
If you are considering therapy, know that it is not about being broken. It’s about valuing yourself enough to be curious, to be seen and supported.
Can you give yourself the gift of therapy?
If you are considering therapy and want to explore whether it’s right for you, I offer a free initial session. Feel free to contact me.
Rebecca Noorian – Psychodynamic Counsellor and Therapist based in St Albans, Hertfordshire.