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Therapy (or Counselling) | 5 Reasons Why We Need It | Find The Best Therapy in 2021

By: William Drake

Updated September 08, 2021

Medically Reviewed By: Stephanie Chupein

The Importance Of Therapy

No matter who we are, life gives us challenges. We are the most equipped to face these challenges when we have the right tools and support. Sometimes, support comes in the form of therapy. This article will cover five common reasons people need therapy.
 

Why Do People Need Therapy?

1. We Aren't Getting the Help We Need
According to the American Psychological Association, up to one (in four), primary care patients struggle with depression; however, primary care doctors identify less than 31 percent of these patients. That means that there is a real need for mental health care, yet the current tools we have in the medical field aren't fulfilling that need. The statistics speak for themselves, and something needs to change for people to maintain emotional wellness. Part of that shift has to do with showing people the value of therapy. For people to see the value of therapy, they need to take the leap and meet with a therapist. Once they do that, they'll notice a dramatic shift in their lives and recognize that their emotional well-being improves.
 
2. When Someone is in Crisis, a Therapist Can Help
When someone is expressing a crisis, such as trauma or grief, they can see a therapist for help. If the person in question expresses their troubling thoughts to a friend or loved one, the person on the other end can confidently refer them to a therapist. Therapy is a safe place to express any emotions a person is having difficulty expressing. A therapist is dedicated to helping people get to a place of emotional wellness and stability.
 
3. Money Troubles
The majority of Americans are in a significant amount of debt. Their financial difficulties could be due to lack of consistent income, poverty, compulsive spending, gambling addiction, substance use, or other mental health issues. Managing money or matters surrounding money is extremely real and impacts our lives daily. Money can cause people anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and other mental health issues.
 
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One of the most significant roadblocks people face when trying to find a therapist and enter counseling is the cost. Many people don't have health insurance or their limited coverage for mental health services (such as counseling) prevents them from getting counseling or other care. There are low-cost clinics where people can get counseling services. However, many times the waitlists for these places are long, and it's difficult to get a therapist promptly. Many people understand the value of counseling, but still think they are not able to afford it. Online therapy or counseling could be a more affordable option.
 
We should clarify that although sometimes "counseling" is spelled differently, the different variations are still the same thing - a form of therapy. Spelling it with one "L" is the American spelling, while the same word with two "L"s is the British spelling. 
 
4. Counseling Treats Mental Illness
If you live with depression, anxiety, or something more severe such as bipolar disorder, you likely experience times of distress in addition to common life challenges. Many people who have a mental illness recognize the value of counseling and see a therapist, whether that person is online or in their area. However, as stated above, there are plenty of individuals who do not receive the counseling that they desperately need for mental health issues. In fact, there are barriers to counseling and mental health services in the United States that are somewhat out of the client's control. Despite the barriers, which we will discuss in a moment, counseling is an excellent way to treat chronic mental illness.
 
5. Treatment is Accessible in Online Therapy
We live in a technology-centric generation and mental health services have evolved quite a bit over time. The final reason to seek counseling is that there are so many ways to do so electronically! Online therapy or counseling is a viable option for treatment. It's vastly more affordable than providers that either don't take insurance or only accept out-of-network coverage. There are even options to get free counseling or therapy for a period before you commit to a long-term relationship with your provider. BetterHelp has an extensive network of professional online therapists who are ready to support you in your journey to wellness.

Reviews

"I have come a long way. With the help of Alexis, I have accomplished things I thought I'd never do. I am glad I did this, it has benefited me so much. With the guidance and encouragement of Alexis, I am more confident in myself and I see a clear path to success and happiness. I have learned to control myself and not doubt myself. It is hard to let go but I know I will be fine and if I need she will still be here for me. Thank you Alexis you have truly helped me change my life. I am so grateful. I wish you the best!"
 
"In the short span of 9 months, Shonnie has become like one of my best friends. At first, I was skeptical of doing therapy since I'm very "psychologically healthy". A few challenges in my personal life lead me to try therapy for a month. Now I consider it an important part of my growth as a businessman and leader within my community. Thank you Shonnie for being so helpful during the recent difficulties; I am very lucky to have found you!"

Conclusion On Counseling

This list is in no way complete, and there are hundreds of good reasons to try therapy. The main reason is that nobody needs to bear any burden alone. You can find hope and overcome any difficulty - take the first step.

Mental Health: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between therapy and counseling?

A therapist and counselor can look very much alike. Both are licensed by their state to provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and group therapy. Licensed therapists have taken coursework approved by the state to provide therapy for families, individuals, and couples who are in crisis or in need of advice.
 
Is therapy confidential?
Yes! When you sign up for online therapy sessions with leading therapy providers like BetterHelp, you can be assured that your relationship therapy, marriage therapy, and individual therapy sessions are completely confidential. When you have sessions with a licensed therapist they are bound by confidentiality.
 
What is therapy?
In professional psychology, therapy happens when a person meets with a therapist to work out ways to meet their goals or overcome their problems. It can also be called counseling with a trained mental health provider.
 

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