Even when we know therapy could help, it is completely normal to feel unsure, overwhelmed or hesitant. Most of us carry beliefs, fears or past experiences that make it hard to invest in our emotional, psychological and spiritual wellbeing.

Here are some of the most common mindsets that hold people back from starting therapy, along with a more compassionate way of understanding them.

If I need therapy, something must be wrong with me

This belief is incredibly common and deeply outdated. People from all walks of life come to therapy. Some want support for anxiety, trauma or relationships. Others come because they want to grow, understand themselves, find meaning, build confidence or connect more deeply with who they truly are.

Therapy is not a sign that you are broken. It is a sign that you are human. It is a creative and relational process that helps you build a healthier and more loving relationship with yourself and others.

Why should I be the one doing all the work again?

When you have been hurt, neglected or abused, it can feel unfair and exhausting to imagine doing emotional work. Therapy is not about letting anyone else off the hook. It is about freeing you.

Staying stuck in old pain can feel protective, but it can also become another way of abandoning yourself. Therapy supports you to release what no longer serves you and to move forward with your life, regardless of your past.

I tried counselling before and it did not work

This happens more often than people realise. Sometimes the timing was not right. Sometimes the approach or therapist was not the right fit. Therapy is a relationship, and the quality of that relationship matters.

It is absolutely okay to try again with someone who feels safer, more grounded or more aligned with your needs. Many people interview a few therapists before choosing one. It is also okay to tell your therapist if something feels off so you can work through it together.

There is no point. I am beyond help

This belief often comes from deep shame, early experiences of not being seen or valued, or internal voices and parts like the inner critic or the inner saboteur. It is not the truth of who you are.

You are worth care, support and healing. Therapy helps you reconnect with that worth and build a more compassionate relationship with yourself.

Therapy takes too long

Most people feel some relief after the first session and start noticing changes within a few weeks, however, meaningful, lasting healing does take time

If you are unsure, ask yourself:

• How long have I been struggling?

• How well is my current way of coping working for me?

• If nothing changes, how will I feel one year from now?

• What kind of life do I want a year from now?

There is no quick fix, but with time, commitment to yourself, and the right support, real change is possible.

Therapists charge too much

Therapists are highly trained professionals. Many complete years of specialised psychotherapy training, attend their own therapy, engage in regular clinical supervision and commit to ongoing professional development. They also cover insurance, room hire, administration, training fees, professional registrations and more.

Most therapists charge in line with their training and the responsibility of the work. Some also offer sliding scale options. 

I cannot get a Medicare rebate so I cannot afford therapy

The Medicare rebate in Australia reduces the fee for psychology sessions, but the out of pocket cost is often similar to seeing a counsellor or psychotherapist privately. The main limitation is the number of sessions. Many people find that the capped Medicare model leads to therapist hopping or short-term fixes.

Private therapy allows for consistency, depth and long-term change.

I genuinely cannot afford therapy

Money is a real barrier for many people. At the same time, it is worth noticing how much we spend on coping, numbing or trying to escape our feelings. Alcohol, food, gambling, online shopping, expensive items, takeaways, cigarettes, gym memberships we never use and holidays that leave us more exhausted can add up quickly.

This is not about guilt or judgement. It is about curiosity. How much are you already spending trying to feel better?

If therapy still feels out of reach, there are options:

• Ask your therapist if they offer a sliding scale

• Ask your workplace if an Employee Assistance Program is available

• Contact reputable training organisations that offer reduced-fee therapy with student practitioners

• Use free helplines such as Lifeline, 1800Respect or financial counselling services

• Consider group therapy, which is more affordable

• Join peer support or 12 step groups

• Attend low-cost personal development programs through community colleges

• Use books, podcasts, YouTube talks or TED talks to support your growth

• Build wellbeing through sleep, movement, nutrition and connection

• Explore ways of increasing your income, asking for a raise or seeking work that reflects your worth

Support is available in many forms.

The cost of ignoring the call of the Self

Life has a way of getting our attention. Sometimes it is through symptoms, burnout, a relationship crisis, health issues, anxiety or a spiritual awakening. When we ignore these signs, the knocking often gets louder.

Investing in your emotional, psychological and spiritual wellbeing is not a luxury. It is a way of honouring your deepest self and preventing crisis before it arrives.

If you are a therapist: paying it forward

Many therapists want to contribute to their communities. Here are some ways to offer support while maintaining sustainability.

• Offer a small number of sliding scale places for those in genuine financial need

• Provide free talks or workshops for your local community

• Volunteer your time with a local organisation or charity

• Facilitate or co-facilitate low-cost group therapy

• Engage with community-led initiatives that promote mental health literacy

Small actions can make a meaningful difference.