I am fairly confident that you may of clicked this article because of its title.
In our times, it seems that therapy is this mysterious program that people who are "messed up" or "weak" need to go to. If you don't go to therapy, it is seen as this badge of honor, that YOU can handle YOUR problems without the help of some person. No one really talks about it, and like rape culture, the only time we seem comfortable with the word therapy is when it is used in a joke.
So you want to know why I stopped going to therapy? I went to college. Yep. The reason I stopped going to therapy was because I was physically too far to go to the same therapist that I was going to before. If I was still in the same state, I would definitely still be in therapy.
Yes, I originally start therapy because I was in a deep rut - a rough spot in my life. During 8th grade, I was bullied to a point that I lost my personality, and most of the characteristics that I am known for. Happy. Bubbly. My parents decided that since I wasn't opening up to them, that maybe a therapist could get the words out of me. She did. She changed my life. She created an environment where there was no judgement, just empathy and compassion. She nurtured my self esteem, and lead me to the beginning of the path that I am on now. I am continuously thankful for her. I brought people who mattered to me with me to sessions, including both my dogs.
I acknowledge that not all therapists are as fantastic as mine was. I have heard the horror stories. But now most of those people who have had those horror stories have found a therapist that has improved their lives. Even if you have a bad experience once, it doesn't mean that every therapist is going to be bad.
This is more for the people who are on the edge of decision. If you're reading this article right now, and you have the SLIGHTEST thought that therapy may help improve your life, do it. Most colleges provide a few free sessions of therapy. Some therapist offer a free session for you to get a feeling of them, and therapy in general.
If you find the right person for you, you'll find a confidant, a comfortable space, a supporter, a kind ear that wants to hear what is going on in your life. You don't have to worry about bothering someone. You don't have to worry that they're secretly judging you. You don't have to worry about your secrets being spilled around your school, your family, your workplace. You won't have to hear someone preach to you how the way they think is right, and you'll always be wrong. You don't have to worry.
The beautiful thing about therapy is there are so many different types of therapy! There's art therapy, group therapy, spiritual therapy, breathing therapy, etc. Maybe traditional therapy isn't for you, that's okay! There is a space for you within the world of therapy.
Therapy is for anyone and everyone. If you just have a few days a year, go to therapy. If you just have a few bad days a month, go to therapy. If you have a bad day every day, go to therapy. Therapy will be catered to you, and how you want to work.
If you can find a free therapy session near you, try it. What do you have to lose?