Everyone needs help sometimes. But if you’ve thought about reaching out to a counselor, you probably know that the hardest part can be taking that first step.
Maybe you’ve had the number typed into your phone but couldn’t bring yourself to hit “call.” Or you’ve drafted an email to a therapist and then deleted it. You’re not alone—many people hesitate to start therapy because it feels intimidating, uncertain, or even a little vulnerable.
But here’s the truth: reaching out for help could be one of the best decisions you ever make. Counseling isn’t about admitting weakness—it’s about choosing healing, growth, and the chance to live differently than you do right now.
Let’s look at some of the most common fears that keep people from starting therapy—and how to move past them with confidence.
1. “Do I need to be in counseling forever?”
No. In fact, therapy should never last forever.
The goal of counseling is to help you understand yourself better, gain practical tools, and reach the point where you can move forward confidently on your own.
At Lime Tree Counseling, we help clients set clear goals early in the process. Once those goals are met, you can step back knowing you have the skills to manage life’s challenges. Some clients return later when new stressors come up, but therapy should always have a clear beginning, middle, and end.
Don’t let the fear of “never being done” stop you from starting. You don’t have to stay stuck where you are.
2. “Counseling is expensive.”
It’s true—counseling is a financial investment. But isn’t your mental and emotional well-being worth it?
Your mental health impacts everything—your relationships, your work, your parenting, even your physical health. The time and money you spend to improve your emotional well-being will always pay off in the long run.
And there are ways to make therapy more affordable. Many of our clients use out-of-network reimbursement through their insurance companies to help cover costs. We’ll even show you how to use the Reimbursify app to simplify the process.
Remember: healing is one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your future.
3. “I’ll be embarrassed if people know I’m going to counseling.”
You’re not alone in that fear. Many people hesitate to start therapy because they worry what others might think.
The truth is—no one has to know unless you want them to. Our office in Ambler, PA offers a private, welcoming environment, and many of our clients choose online counseling for complete convenience and privacy.
You might be surprised how many people you know are already in therapy. Everyone struggles sometimes—most people just don’t talk about it. But getting help is a sign of courage, not shame.
If embarrassment has been holding you back, consider this your permission to put that fear down. You don’t have to hide the fact that you’re doing something healthy and brave for yourself.
4. “I don’t even know where to start.”
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you reach out. That’s what therapy is for.
When you contact Lime Tree Counseling, our Client Care Coordinator will walk you through every step—from choosing the right therapist to scheduling your first appointment. We’ll help you get matched with someone who understands what you’re facing and knows how to help.
If you’re curious about what those first few sessions are like, check out our post on How Many Therapy Sessions Will I Need.
Start Counseling in Ambler, PA or Online in Pennsylvania
If fear, embarrassment, or uncertainty have been holding you back, you’re not alone—and it’s not too late to start.
At Lime Tree Counseling, our Online Counseling in Pennsylvania and in-person sessions in Ambler, PA make it easy to get started wherever you are.
We’ll meet you where you’re comfortable, help you set goals that make sense for your life, and walk alongside you as you make progress.
Start Counseling Today →
It’s time to stop letting fear keep you from the help you deserve.
About the Author
Katie Bailey, MA, LPC, is the founder and a Licensed Professional Counselor at Lime Tree Counseling in Ambler, Pennsylvania. With more than 20 years of experience, she helps people move from feeling overwhelmed to connected by offering therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships. Along with her team of licensed therapists, she provides compassionate, evidence-based counseling to individuals and couples throughout Pennsylvania.
FAQs About Starting Therapy
Do I need to have a big problem to go to therapy?
Not at all. Many people come to therapy simply to feel less stressed, improve relationships, or make better decisions. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from counseling.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on your goals and situation. Some people see improvement in just a few months; others continue longer to work on deeper issues. Together, we’ll find the pace that fits you best.
What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help?
Don’t give up. The right therapist makes all the difference. Our team will help you find someone whose approach and personality fit your needs.
Can I do therapy online?
Yes! Lime Tree Counseling offers online sessions for clients across Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Many clients love the flexibility and privacy of online therapy.
The hardest part is often taking the first step.
But once you do, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.
Reach out today—you deserve to feel better.