Is Therapy Right for Me? 7 Signs It Might Be Time to Talk to Someone

Life can be overwhelming, and therapy might help if you’re feeling stuck, stressed, or struggling emotionally. Here are 7 key signs it could be time to seek professional support:

Chronic Stress or Anxiety: If daily stress takes over your life or causes physical symptoms like headaches or stomach issues.
Difficulty Managing Emotions: Mood swings or constant sadness disrupting your day-to-day life.
Relationship Struggles: Recurring conflicts or feeling disconnected from loved ones.
Unexplained Physical Symptoms: Aches, fatigue, or other issues with no medical explanation.
Big Life Changes: Events like divorce, job loss, or grief can challenge your coping skills.
Substance Use: Relying on alcohol or drugs to manage emotions.
Concern from Others: Friends or family noticing changes in your behavior or well-being.

Therapy offers tools to manage these challenges, improve self-awareness, and build healthier habits. Options like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or online sessions make it more accessible and effective for many. Ready to start? Consider reaching out to a licensed provider to explore how therapy can work for you.

7 Signs You Might Need Therapy

1. Ongoing Stress and Anxiety

If stress and anxiety go beyond the usual daily worries and start interfering with your emotional or physical well-being, it might be time to seek professional help. Spending more than an hour each day managing stress is a red flag. Chronic stress often brings physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, or stomach issues.

2. Trouble Controlling Emotions

Struggling with mood swings or overwhelming sadness can disrupt your daily life and relationships. Dr. Brad Brenner explains: "Emotional regulation is a cornerstone of mental well-being and healthy relationships". Therapy can help you understand and manage these emotions, improving both your personal and social connections.

3. Repeated Relationship Problems

If you notice recurring conflicts or feelings of disconnection in relationships – whether with family, friends, or romantic partners – therapy can help you identify and address the underlying patterns causing these issues.

4. Unexplained Physical Symptoms

Persistent physical issues like aches, chest pain, exhaustion, high blood pressure, or stomach problems may sometimes stem from emotional stress rather than medical causes. When medical tests don’t provide answers, therapy can help explore the emotional roots of these symptoms.

5. Major Life Changes

Big transitions, such as:

Career changes or job loss
Becoming a parent
Divorce or ending a relationship
Retirement
Losing a loved one

can stir up emotional challenges. These shifts may test your old coping mechanisms, and therapy can provide the support needed to navigate them and avoid falling into unhealthy habits.

6. Substance Use as a Coping Tool

Using alcohol or other substances to deal with stress, anxiety, or emotional pain might indicate that your current coping strategies aren’t working. Therapy can help you discover healthier ways to manage these feelings.

7. Others Express Concern

When those around you – friends, family, or colleagues – consistently show concern about your well-being or notice changes in your behavior, it’s worth paying attention. Their observations can be a strong indicator that seeking help could be beneficial.

"Therapy isn’t just for people with trauma or ‘something wrong’ – professional mental guidance can benefit just about anyone by improving self-understanding, everyday coping strategies, empathy, communication, and so much more." – GoodTherapy

7 CLEAR Signs You Should Go to Therapy

What Therapy Offers

Therapy provides proven methods to help address mental health challenges. With evidence-based techniques and professional support, nearly 75% of people who engage in therapy experience relief from their symptoms.

Types of Therapy Methods

Therapy offers a range of approaches designed to suit individual needs. Here’s a quick look at some common methods:

Therapy Type	Best For	How It Works
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)	Depression, anxiety, phobias, eating disorders	Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)	Emotional regulation, self-destructive behaviors	Teaches skills like mindfulness, distress tolerance, and better interpersonal interactions
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy	Depression, anxiety, stress	Helps reduce depression relapse risk by nearly 50% through present-moment awareness
Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR)	Trauma, PTSD, anxiety	Uses bilateral stimulation to help process and manage traumatic memories

Each method addresses specific concerns and is tailored to create a personalized treatment plan.

"Psychologists help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives." – American Psychological Association

Online Therapy Options

Online therapy has made mental health support more accessible by bringing these benefits directly to your home. It offers several conveniences:

Flexible Scheduling: Attend sessions without the hassle of commuting.
Access to Specialists: Connect with providers regardless of their location.
Increased Privacy: Participate in a comfortable, private setting.
Quick Appointments: Same-day availability for urgent needs.
Secure Platforms: HIPAA-compliant systems ensure confidentiality.

Research confirms online therapy’s effectiveness for conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. In fact, video-based therapy has shown a strong positive impact, with an effect size of +0.99. It’s a reliable option for those seeking an alternative to in-person care.

Success in therapy – whether online or face-to-face – depends on open communication with your therapist and regular practice of the skills you learn during sessions. Your therapist will work closely with you to design a treatment plan that fits your personal goals and challenges.

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Starting Therapy: Common Concerns

Cost and Payment Options

Money often stops people from getting mental health support, with 57% of Americans saying financial worries are their main reason for not starting therapy. But there are different ways to pay that can make therapy easier to afford:

Payment Method	Typical Cost	What to Know
Insurance Coverage	$21-60 per session	In-network providers are cheaper; check your coverage first
Self-Pay Rate	$100-200 per session	Costs depend on location and therapist experience
Virtual Sessions	$50-130 per session	Often 10-30% cheaper than in-person sessions
Group Therapy	$25-80 per session	A more budget-friendly option compared to individual therapy

At Televero Health, they check your insurance coverage before your first appointment. If you don’t have insurance, they offer flexible payment plans and financing options through CareCredit to help you manage costs.

"The price of therapy varies. Many insurance plans cover psychotherapy, and if you choose to work with a provider within your network, you will only need to pay your typical co-payment." – Marla B. Cohen, PsyD

Your First Therapy Session

Once you’ve sorted out the cost, here’s what to expect as you begin therapy:

Before the Session:

Write down your concerns and what you hope to achieve with therapy.
Gather your medical history and a list of current medications.
Set up a quiet, private space and test your device and internet connection (if it’s a virtual session).
Have your payment or insurance details ready.

During the Session: Your therapist will lead the conversation to understand your situation better. They’ll typically ask about:

Why you’re seeking therapy
Current challenges and symptoms
Personal and family history
What you hope to achieve
Session logistics and privacy policies

"I always try to start my sessions by saying to patients that they are the experts on their own experience and what they hope to get out of therapy." – Kailey Roberts, Memorial Sloan Kettering postdoctoral fellow and licensed clinical psychologist

Studies show that about 75% of people who try therapy find it helpful, and many notice improvements after 15-20 sessions. It’s okay if it takes a little time to find a therapist who feels like the right fit. Don’t hesitate to explore your options until you find someone who aligns with your needs.

Your therapist will collaborate with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your goals and situation. They’ll explain their methods and answer any questions, ensuring you feel informed and at ease as you start your mental health journey.

Next Steps

Noticing any of these signs? It’s time to take action. Here’s how you can start your therapy journey with Televero Health right away.

How to Begin:

Create an account on Televero Health’s portal
Fill out the intake forms
Gather your insurance information
Schedule your first evaluation

Your initial session will connect you with a licensed provider who will design a care plan tailored to your needs and goals. This takes place on Televero Health’s secure video platform, so you can join from the comfort of your home.

Helpful Session Tips:

Review the preparation tips shared earlier
Keep a notepad nearby for key takeaways
Jot down any lingering questions for your therapist

If you need assistance, Televero Health’s care coordinators are here to help. They can guide you through the process, clarify insurance details, and answer your questions. Call (956) 956-5003 or visit our website for support.

FAQs

How do I know if my stress or anxiety is serious enough to see a therapist?

Stress and anxiety are a normal part of life, but if they start to feel overwhelming or disrupt your daily routine, it might be time to consider therapy. Some signs to watch for include:

Persistent feelings of worry, sadness, or being overwhelmed that don’t go away.
Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or changes in sleep or appetite.
Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
Struggles with work, relationships, or daily tasks, making it hard to function.
Relying on unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use.

If these challenges are interfering with your life or causing significant distress, therapy can provide the support and tools you need to feel better. Seeking help is a sign of strength, and a mental health professional can guide you toward improved well-being.

What’s the difference between CBT and DBT, and how do I know which type of therapy is right for me?

CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It’s often used to address issues like anxiety, depression, and stress. DBT, or Dialectical Behavior Therapy, is a specialized form of CBT that emphasizes managing intense emotions, reducing impulsive behaviors, and practicing mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or meditation. It’s commonly used for conditions involving emotional regulation, such as borderline personality disorder or chronic stress.

To choose the right therapy, think about your specific challenges and goals. For example, if you’re struggling with negative thought patterns, CBT might be a good fit. If emotional regulation is a key concern, DBT could be more helpful. You can also consider your preferences, such as whether you value mindfulness practices or want a more structured approach. A licensed therapist can guide you in finding the best option for your needs.

How can I prepare for my first therapy session to make it as effective as possible?

Preparing for your first therapy session can help you feel more confident and ensure a productive start. Begin by reflecting on your goals – what do you hope to achieve through therapy? Jot down any specific concerns, challenges, or questions you’d like to discuss. This can help organize your thoughts and make the session more focused.

During the session, be open and honest about your feelings and experiences. Therapy is a safe space, so don’t hesitate to express emotions or ask questions about the process. Afterward, take some time to reflect on the session. Consider journaling about key takeaways or noting any follow-up tasks your therapist may suggest. These steps can help you get the most out of your therapy journey.

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