How do I know if therapy is what I need? Obviously I probably do if I’ve ever considered it.

First, I want to start by saying I think it's so brave of you to consider coming to therapy. Taking the first step is the hardest and I just want to encourage you by saying you are already taking that first step. I think everyone can benefit from therapy. I cannot speak for every therapist, but my approach is not confrontational! There may be moments where we try to stretch you, but it should never feel confrontational. My goal is to validate you and walk beside you to find the skills that work for you. It's a safe place to lay all of your worries down without any judgment. Don't be afraid of not knowing what to say! We can guide you during therapy and even help you with some communication skills. Once you feel more comfortable, the conversations start to become easier and feel more relaxed. It's so normal to feel nervous initially. Therapy is a safe place to practice new communication skills as well as even role play different conversations you may need to have with your partner. Having a safe place to process the difficulties in your life is healthy and will be beneficial for everyone in your family. 

As far as spending money on therapy and not benefitting from it, I think this is dependent on the motivation you have to make the changes discussed in therapy. Therapy is a place to learn skills and practice them, but then you have to take it one step further and practice the skills outside of the sessions. That's when you will see the real growth. When you actively practice the skills in between sessions, they not only become easier, but they also become more effective. Any type of change is hard and it takes work on both ends. As therapists, we will work hard for that change in your life, but we cannot be working harder than you. 

I hope this answers your question and you feel more comfortable trying therapy out. I think you'll be surprised at how much you can gain from a few sessions.

Remember, therapy is a judgment free zone and we are proud of you for just showing up.