About one-third of Americans made a mental health-related New Year’s resolution for 2025, according to the American Psychiatric Association, with “seeing a therapist” being one of the most common resolutions. Nearly half of respondents aged 18-34 had mental health on their resolution list, compared to only 13% of those 65 or older.
People seek therapy for all kinds of reasons: to manage stress, for addiction treatment, to overcome trauma, to build healthier relationships, to improve communication skills, and everything in between. Working with licensed professional counselors brings a lot of benefits.
Yet, many people still hesitate to attend therapy, with the divide falling along generational lines. Here are 20 things to say to help make someone feel more comfortable about taking that step and beginning therapy if they are unsure.
A primary reason people fear therapy is the stigma around mental health conditions and care. In reality, therapy is a move toward well-being, just like seeing a doctor for physical health. And, like other doctors, licensed psychiatrists can prescribe medication when necessary.
Many people assume that mental health services are only for those experiencing severe mental illness. But therapy also helps with stress, relationship issues, low self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, and more.
Cost is a common concern, but many private practices offer sliding-scale fees, and insurance coverage and payment plans may help make mental health services more accessible. Telehealth options can also reduce expenses.
A busy schedule shouldn't be a barrier. Many therapists offer flexible appointments, including virtual therapy sessions, to help make mental health treatment more accessible.
Friends and family can absolutely provide emotional support, but a good therapist offers professional guidance, evidence-based strategies, and a structured therapeutic process tailored to your needs.
Some people fear being judged for their thoughts or past experiences. Therapists are trained to create a safe, supportive environment where patients feel comfortable sharing.
While medication can help manage symptoms, traditional therapy provides tools to address root causes and develop long-term coping strategies.
Some worry they will have to discuss painful past experiences immediately. In therapy, you set your own pace, gradually establishing a trusted relationship with your therapist and working toward a better understanding of yourself.
Some people avoid therapy because they fear discussing family members or relationship issues will feel like betrayal. In reality, therapy helps improve communication and emotional well-being.
Mental health issues can be hard to recognize within one’s self. Therapy helps patients gain insight into their emotions, behaviors, and patterns for healthier decisions and personal growth.
If you've been told to "toughen up" or that your feelings aren't valid, therapy can help reframe those beliefs and provide support for emotional healing.
People with depression or anxiety sometimes believe they ‘deserve’ to feel bad. Therapy challenges these thoughts and fosters hope, resilience, and self-compassion.
Telehealth, self-help resources, and online directories make it easier than ever to find a mental health professional if transportation or finding the right therapist is a barrier.
Mental health care isn’t just for treating mental illness. It can improve work-life balance, emotional regulation, mood, and even physical health. Family therapy and couples therapy can help improve some of your most important relationships.
People fear change, but stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to self-discovery, improved mental well-being, and greater fulfillment in life.
Some believe they are too old to change, but therapy benefits individuals at any stage of life. Mental health treatment can help you create a healthier future.
Some people distrust therapy, assuming therapists are only in it for financial gain. The truth is, the overwhelming majority of therapists are in practice out of a genuine want to help people heal and grow. After all, that's why they chose this profession!
If a previous therapy session wasn’t helpful, it doesn’t mean all therapists or approaches won’t work. Finding the right fit can make a significant difference.
People struggling with substance abuse or dysfunction in relationships may fear therapy will force them to make changes they’re not ready for. Therapy is about support, not pressure.
Some think therapy is just talking, but research shows that psychotherapy helps people manage emotions, build resilience, and create the groundwork for meaningful, lasting change.
Encouraging someone to seek therapy isn’t about forcing change. It’s about showing compassion, offering perspective, and helping them feel safe enough to take the next step.
If you haven’t yet read Part 1 of this series, Why Do People Not Go to Therapy? Top 20 Reasons, be sure to check it out. Understanding the common barriers people face is key to offering the right kind of support.
If you're a mental health provider looking for ways to improve patient engagement, ClinicTracker can help. Subscribe to our blog for industry insights or request a demo to see how our behavioral health EHR system supports better mental health care for all.