The Hard Truth: What It’s Really Like to Engage in Psychotherapy

Thinking about starting therapy? Here’s what nobody told you (but probably should have - you're welcome!!).

Therapy isn't always glamorous—sometimes it's tissues, honesty, and a good cry. But it's all part of the process.

So, You’re Thinking About Therapy – Now What?

Maybe it hit you in a moment of crisis. Maybe you’ve been slowly edging toward the idea. Maybe a loved one nudged you with that well-meaning, slightly condescending line: "You know, you should talk to someone."

If you're reading this, you’re probably considering psychotherapy. Welcome. We’re glad you’re here — and yes, we know this can be a weird place to find yourself. Our goal? Demystify what therapy actually is and isn’t, and help you figure out whether you’re ready to dive in.

What Therapy Actually Looks Like (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Crying on a Couch)

Pop culture has trained us to imagine therapy as a mix of silence, tears, and a note-taking stranger asking, "And how does that make you feel?" In reality, it can be far more dynamic.

There are different types of psychotherapy: CBT, EMDR, couples therapy, trauma-informed care, and more. Some sessions are about emotional release. Others feel like strategic planning meetings. It's rarely one-size-fits-all, and your therapist's approach may shift as your needs evolve.

Therapy spaces are designed to be calm and comforting—but don’t let the cozy decor fool you. Emotional heavy lifting happens here.

The Emotional Workout You Didn’t Know You Signed Up For

Therapy is emotional strength training. And like at the gym, you might want to fake a back injury to get out of it.

It’s uncomfortable. You might cry, rant, sit in awkward silence. Maybe you'll even swear. Maybe, you'll swear a lot? One anonymized example: A client once joked they felt like their therapist was a mirror reflecting back all the things they try to avoid. That’s kind of the point.

Expect to feel things you didn’t realize you were still holding. That discomfort? It’s data. It means you’re doing it right.

One Session Won’t Fix Your Life (And That’s Okay)

A single session can bring clarity, but not closure. Therapy isn't a microwave dinner; it’s more like slow-cooked stew — rich, layered, and deeply nourishing over time.

Set realistic expectations. For many, it takes 6–8 sessions to start seeing real shifts. Your emotional backpack took years to pack; it won’t unpack itself in 50 minutes.

Some sessions feel like standstills—and that’s not only normal, but it's perfectly okay. Growth isn’t always linear, but showing up still counts.

When Therapy Feels Hard — Or Like It’s Not Working

There will be plateaus. You may leave a session thinking, "What did we even do today?" That doesn’t mean therapy isn’t working. Often, these are the integration phases — your brain is connecting dots behind the scenes.

If you feel stuck, talk to your therapist. Yes, even that awkward meta-therapy, "am I getting anywhere with this?" talk is therapy.

The Sweet Spot – When Things Start to Click

Breakthroughs often happen when you least expect them. It might be a simple phrase from your therapist that lands so hard you think, "Wait, are they secretly living in my head?"

Progress looks different for everyone, but many notice shifts in emotional regulation, communication, and self-awareness within a couple of months. The more you show up, the more it adds up.

The right therapist feels like someone you can actually talk to—friendly, professional, and yes, human.

Therapist Fit Is Crucial

Not every therapist is your therapist. You need someone whose approach, personality, and vibe resonate with you.

Therapy is intimate. It’s okay to be picky. Think of it like dating, minus the awkward apps and bad coffee.

If it doesn’t feel like a fit after a few sessions, you’re allowed to find someone new. In fact, we encourage it.

Our Services are for the Functional, Too

You don’t have to be falling apart to start therapy. In fact, therapy-as-prevention is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Think of it like coaching for your emotional life. You get to proactively build skills, awareness, and resilience before crisis hits.

When life gives you trauma, make punchlines (and progress) in therapy.

You Can Laugh in Therapy

Yes, you read that right. Laughter is not only allowed — it’s encouraged. Humor can be a sign of healing. A funny moment mid-session doesn’t negate your pain; it honors your humanity.

Some of the most powerful sessions include both tears and belly laughs. Therapy can be real, raw, and ridiculously funny — sometimes all at once.

Walk-In Sessions: Who They’re Right For

Our clinic offers walk-in therapy sessions for those who need timely support without the waitlist.

These are ideal for:

• Individuals facing immediate emotional overwhelm

• Clients seeking a one-off or short series of sessions for clarity

• New clients exploring whether therapy is for them

They’re not a long-term substitute, but they are a great entry point.

herapy works best when you do. Reflect, show up, take notes—your mental health deserves your full attention

How to Make the Most of Therapy

• Be honest. We’re not mind readers.

• Show up. Physically and emotionally.

• Do the work. Insight is just the start.

Therapy isn’t passive. The more you engage, the more transformative it becomes.

Therapy Is Not Magic — But It Is Worth It

No, therapy won’t "fix" you. But it can help you understand yourself, build emotional tools, and live a more connected life.

It’s an investment — of time, money, and energy. But for many, it’s the most valuable one they’ll ever make.

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Ready to take the next step? Explore our services, meet our team, or pop in for a walk-in session. We’re here for the hard, the healing, and yes — even the hilarious parts of your journey.

I know you can do it. You deserve to get help to feel better!

Much love,

Dr. Kris

p.s. Stay tuned: Each section above will be expanded into its own blog post as part of our upcoming series!