It’s Time to Talk: Why Trying Counselling Could Be the Best Step You Take

Today is #TimeToTalk Day—a day dedicated to breaking the silence around mental health. If you’ve ever thought about trying counselling but weren’t sure if it’s for you, I want to have an honest chat about what it’s really like and why it might be worth a try.

"But Do I Really Need Counselling?"

A lot of people think counselling is only for those in crisis, but that’s not true. You don’t have to be at rock bottom to benefit from talking to someone. Maybe you feel overwhelmed, stuck, or just need clarity on something weighing on your mind. Counselling isn’t about fixing you (because you’re not broken!)—it’s about giving you the space to untangle your thoughts, find new perspectives, and build tools to cope better with life’s ups and downs.

The Unexpected Benefits of Talking It Out

If you’ve never tried counselling before, here are some things that might surprise you:

1. You’ll Feel Heard—Truly Heard- How often do we really get to talk without interruption or judgment? A counsellor listens in a way that friends and family sometimes can’t. They’re there just for you, without distractions or opinions about what you should do.

2. It Helps You Make Sense of Things- Life is messy. Counselling helps you connect the dots—why you react a certain way, why certain things trigger you, and how past experiences might be shaping your present. That self-awareness can be life-changing.

3. You’ll Learn Practical Tools- It’s not just about talking; it’s about learning how to handle stress, anxiety, relationships, and emotions in healthier ways. You might leave sessions with new coping strategies that actually work for you.

4. It’s a Judgment-Free Zone- Worried about saying the wrong thing? You don’t have to be. A good counsellor won’t judge you, shame you, or dismiss your feelings. It’s a safe space to say what’s really on your mind.

5. You Set the Pace- You don’t have to spill your deepest secrets on day one. Counselling moves at your comfort level. It’s about what you need, not what anyone else expects.

Taking That First Step

If you’ve been thinking about counselling but feel unsure, I encourage you to take that first step—whether that’s booking a session, researching therapists, or just talking to someone about it. You deserve support, and you don’t have to figure everything out alone.

Today, on #TimeToTalk Day, let’s normalise reaching out for help. Counselling isn’t a last resort—it’s an investment in you. And if you ever want to talk, I’m here to listen.