Counselling, or psychotherapy—let’s simply refer to it as therapy—has historically been shrouded in stigma. 

It’s often viewed as something to be ashamed of, and many individuals hesitate to admit, “I have a counsellor.” 

In fact, some don’t share their journey toward therapy with a single soul. 

However, let me be clear: therapy is a powerful tool that addresses a multitude of issues, whether they stem from childhood experiences, workplace stress, relationship challenges, or various mental health conditions. 

Therapy empowers individuals to confront their past and explore transformative changes. It equips them with coping mechanisms they may not even realize they possess. 

Extensive research has demonstrated that the long-term benefits of therapy often surpass those of medication alone. While medication can alleviate symptoms, it fails to tackle the root causes of those issues. 

Therapy, on the other hand, cultivates essential life skills, boosts self-awareness, enhances confidence, and significantly improves overall mental health. Is it time for you to see a therapist? 

The answer is unequivocally yes. 

Everyone deserves a safe space to express themselves, free from judgment and filled with unconditional positive regard. 

If you’ve been contemplating therapy for a while, overcoming the stigma and searching for the right fit—be it online or in-person—now is the moment to act. 

When thoughts become overwhelming and persist for an extended period, it’s time to seek support. 

Consider some common reasons why people pursue therapy: *Life feels devoid of meaning,*, *wondering why you overeat or binge eat* *experiencing a persistent low mood,* *struggling to cope with situations that once felt manageable,* *difficulty sleeping,* *a constant sense of sadness or helplessness,* *navigating losses beyond bereavement,* and *relationship challenges.* 

This is just a glimpse of the myriad of reasons one might seek therapy. 

If any of these resonate with you, now is the time to take that vital step. Below is a short film from BBC Ideas that explains how therapy works.