Questions You Might Be Asking Yourself Before Starting Therapy

If you’re curious about counselling but feeling unsure, you’re not alone. Below are ten of the most common questions people like you ask and what you really need to know as you decide whether therapy is right for you.

1. How Will Therapy Help Me with My Unique Struggle?

You want to know you’ll work on exactly what’s keeping you up at night, whether it’s anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, or relationship tension. In our sessions, we’ll tailor proven techniques to your situation and unpick what's bothering you.

2. Will Opening Up Make Me Feel Worse Before I Feel Better?

It’s natural to worry that talking about painful memories will intensify your emotions, sometimes this happens when we have supressed our feelings for so long, but you’ll get a clear roadmap of what to expect, we’ll pace each conversation, use grounding tools to steady you, and build in check-ins so you always feel supported, especially on tough days.

3. What Does Success in Therapy Look Like for Me?

You deserve measurable progress, not vague promises. Together, we’ll set milestones, like reducing panic attacks, sleeping more soundly, or speaking up more confidently. If easier for you to retain. ill send infographics or print hard copies of tools and techniques, maybe a short video to watch. But only if this is your preference. Every now and again, we’ll review these goals and adjust as needed, so you can see exactly how far you’ve come.

4. How Will You Adapt Sessions to My Personality?

Maybe you’re an analytical thinker who needs data and structure, or perhaps you prefer creative exercises and metaphors. As a integrative Somatic Trauma Psychotherapist, I blend approaches like nervous system regulation, Somatic work, psychoeducation and much more, for healing. I use flipcharts, infographics, drawing boards, toys and books...Sometimes we will talk about what you love, what makes you laugh , whilst laughing together. Lets see what works, so that our work resonates with how you naturally process and learn.

5. Can I Trust That What I Say Stays Private?

Privacy is your right and my commitment. I’ll explain exactly how your notes are stored securely, and the rare situations where I might need to break confidentiality, generally around safeguarding concerns, always with your well-being as the priority.

6. How Soon Will I Notice Real Change?

You want realistic timeframes. Many clients feel small shifts, less rumination, calmer reactions, within six weeks. Deeper rewiring of long-standing habits and trauma work usually takes longer, which is hard to place a time limit as each person is so different and collaboration from both sides is key. Your commitment to the process really helps your journey.

7. What If I Hit a Plateau or Relapse?

Progress isn’t a straight line, and you won’t be abandoned if things stall. We’ll outline a “reset” plan, extra check-ins, brief booster sessions, or targeted exercises to reignite momentum. You’ll always have a strategy for moving forward, even on challenging days. Its natural to ebb and flow, like life.

8. How Do We Track Progress and Adjust Goals?

You want to know exactly where you stand. We keep checking in, we’ll revisit your goals to celebrate wins, refine strategies, or set new objectives.

9. Why Should I Choose You as My Therapist?

Credentials matter, yes, but so does the human connection, I come from a place where I have lived experience, aswell as my qualifications. I know what its like to be lost, to not be seen or heard, and to battle hard thoughts. You’ll feel if my style, warm, collaborative, evidence-based offering, resonates with you. If it doesn’t, I’ll recommend a colleague who might be a better match.

10. What About Fees, Scheduling, and Logistics?

Uncertainty around cost or appointments can hold you back. You’ll get clear answers up front, session length, pricing options (including sliding-scale rates), cancellation policies, and evening or weekend spots. No surprises, just a straightforward plan so you can focus on your growth.

Ready to Find Your Answers?

If these questions resonate, you’re already primed for change. Let’s explore them together in a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation. You’ll leave with greater clarity about therapy and whether I’m the right guide for your journey.

Disclaimer

Please note:

As a counselling professional, I offer the reflections and perspectives in this blog to encourage emotional insight, personal growth, and compassionate exploration.

However, please note that the content is intended for general information and self-reflection only, it does not constitute or replace formal psychological assessment, diagnosis, or treatment.

If you are experiencing mental health concerns, distress, or significant emotional difficulty, I strongly encourage you to seek support from a licensed mental health practitioner or qualified healthcare provider who can offer personalised and evidence-based care.

The insights shared here draw from trauma-informed practice and professional experience, but they are not a substitute for professional judgment. Every healing journey is unique, and any tools or concepts offered should be considered thoughtfully and in collaboration with trusted professionals.

This blog does not recommend altering or discontinuing prescribed medications or treatment plans. All decisions regarding your health and care should be made in partnership with qualified practitioners who know your personal history and needs.

Above all, my intention is to honour your process, offer meaningful language for your inner world, and provide a space for reflection, not prescription.