Do you feel shy about asking for help - maybe you just don't know how to begin. That's not uncommon. Actually, that was my issue way back when. 

The idea of walking through the door of a therapist felt way out of my league. (It flooded my circuits just to think of calling someone and making an appointment.)

Hesitant to start counseling?

I personally waited way too long because I figured I was 'making too much of nothing'  - that my problems were too puny for a shrink to bother with. Boy, did I get that wrong 😉

Because in the end, it doesn't matter - there's no rule books out there for managing emotions and relationships. We all need help at one time or another. And we're all entitled to get that help.

Besides who doesn't want to feel better than they do right now. That's what the right therapist at the right time can do for you - take you to the next level.

And if the thought of walking into a therapist's office feels completely overwhelming - as it did for me one time - then this is the easiest way to 'learn the ropes'.

Advantages of online counseling

That's of course one of the biggest advantages with doing therapy online. You can access an online therapist right from your own computer - at any location. 

It's much easier to feel at ease, when you're in the safety and comfort of your own home. Makes sense eh.

And because you choose when and how long the sessions will be, you also have a sense of control that contributes to the safe feelings. I like that too.

That's why I promote online counseling - it removes a lot of the typical barriers that trip up many folks and keep them from starting. And that's the whole point...getting started.

If you start online it's much easier to jump to face-to-face if you so desire.

When online counseling is NOT the best option

If you need any of the following, face-to-face would be better suited to your needs. (This isn't an exclusive list - just some things to consider.):

• You need a formal diagnosis/assessment for insurance coverage
• You need your therapist's notes for a court case
• You're ready to go to the next level and feel you've outgrown  online therapy
• You get attached quite quickly and/or need to work through a transference

So, if any of my comments ring true to you, I wouldn't hesitate. Get help now, exactly when you need it. Whether your choice is online counseling, face-to-face therapy or any number of the healing modalities, I encourage you to take the first step.

Don't let anything stop you from moving forward in your life.

You deserve to get as much support and guidance as you want.

Warmest,

Now, speaking to a counselor for the first time can feel...well, a little unfamiliar. Just know . . . most people are relieved to find how easy it is.

Sometimes it's just a matter of taking that first step. Though in the end, you have to judge for yourself. 

How to begin your therapy session

Don't be surprised if once you begin your session, you find yourself initially carrying a lot of emotion. That's because we often inadvertently set ourselves up when we first start talking to a therapist.

You see, it's likely that you've been holding on and waiting for this moment. 

That's okay. Most therapists are used to seeing this. Just give yourself lots of time to settle.

Online therapy is going mainstream. The reason is simple.

• Anonymity.
• When you want and where you want: 24/7.
• You have a record of the therapist's comments (with email and chat). Useful for re-reading.
• Many people find it easier to disclose emotionally difficult information (having a phone session shifted my own therapy).
• Email exchanges give you time to reflect on your therapist's response.

Plus, if you're brand new to counseling it's an easy place to get started.