Recently Dr. Gayle MacBride was asked that very question. Here’s her response:
Sometimes we go to therapy, even if we don’t think we need it. The times when this is most important are when people are giving you the same feedback again and again (eg. hearing the same complaints from multiple people). Therapists can help you see that it likely isn’t “them”, it might be “you”.
It might also be a good idea to try therapy when you have a “feeling you just can’t shake”. Sometimes we don’t know why a feeling is “hanging around”, but if that’s the case, maybe some personal work will help you resolve it.
I also love the idea of therapy when you are the “healthy” individual in an unhealthy relationship because it can really help you put some things in perspective and step away from letting yourself feel hurt again and again by the same patterns.
Talk therapy can be useful when wanting to take the next steps in your career because talking with a neutral party can help hold up a mirror and identify patterns that are holding you back. Talk therapy isn’t just for “mental health reasons” it’s really for those who are ready to grow and change old patterns.
Last, I think therapy is a great idea when you are anticipating major life changes (marriage/divorce, kids, moves, new jobs, or even a death of a loved one). Talking with an expert BEFORE these things happen can help normalize thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of yourself/others, leading you to be less harsh on yourself and others when they do occur. It can help you be more confident as you navigate life’s most challenging moments, cope when it is tough, and know that you are not alone.
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