Growing up with a mother who was a clinical psychologist normalised the idea of going to therapy. In our home, seeing a psychologist felt as routine as visiting a GP. As a teenager though, I was often hesitant to share this with friends — many viewed therapy as something only for people with serious problems, or for those who were not coping.
Despite that perception, I valued my time in therapy. It gave me a space to process and reflect on different aspects of my life — whether navigating complex social situations or managing academic pressure. I often left sessions feeling clearer, more grounded, and more in tune with myself and my values. I also came to appreciate something that has stayed with me ever since: while friends and family can be wonderfully supportive, their perspectives are naturally shaped by their own experiences and their feelings about us. Therapy offered something different. An objective and genuinely non-judgmental space.
“Therapy is not only for times of crisis. It can be a valuable tool for self-understanding, personal growth, and improving overall wellbeing.”
The conversation has shifted — but not completely
In recent years there has been greater recognition of mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Organisations like Beyond Blue, headspace, and the Black Dog Institute have helped promote the message that it is okay to seek support. At the same time, personal growth has become a genuine focus in many parts of life, with workplaces offering programs in mindfulness, stress management, and physical wellbeing.
These are positive developments. But they are often broad, and they may not address an individual’s specific psychological needs. Group programs and general wellness initiatives have their place — but they are not the same as sitting with someone who is entirely focused on you, your history, and what is actually going on for you right now.
What working with a psychologist actually offers
Working with a psychologist provides a personalised approach that general wellness programs simply cannot replicate. Therapy helps people identify unhelpful patterns in their thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours. With increased self-awareness comes the ability to pause, reflect, and respond to challenges in more flexible and constructive ways — rather than reacting from old patterns that are no longer serving you.
Some of what that looks like in practice: a safe and objective space to explore what is genuinely going on, greater awareness of the thoughts and beliefs that are driving your responses, more adaptive coping strategies that you can actually use, a clearer sense of your own strengths and values, and improved relationships and quality of life over time. These are not small things.
The therapeutic relationship matters
The relationship between a client and their psychologist is one of the most consistently strong predictors of good outcomes in therapy — research has shown this again and again. It matters more than the specific approach or modality used. Which means that finding the right psychologist for you is genuinely important, not just a preference.
It is entirely appropriate to have an initial conversation with a few practitioners before deciding who to work with. A good psychologist will not take this personally. I offer a free 15-minute phone call before any booking for exactly this reason — because the fit has to feel right before any real work can begin.
Therapy is a process, not a fix
It is also worth saying plainly: therapy takes time. In a fast-paced world, many people hope for quick solutions. And sometimes early sessions do bring quick relief — the experience of finally feeling heard and understood can shift things faster than people expect. But meaningful, lasting change usually requires space for reflection and growth that cannot be rushed.
In Australia, individuals with a Mental Health Care Plan from their GP are eligible for Medicare rebates on up to ten individual psychology sessions per calendar year. If cost has been a barrier, it is worth having that conversation with your GP — it removes more of the financial hurdle than many people realise.
If you have been sitting on the fence about whether to try therapy, I hope some of this has helped. The first step is usually the hardest one.
This article is for general information and education only. It does not constitute psychological advice or replace professional support. If you are experiencing significant distress, please reach out to a registered psychologist or your GP. In an emergency, call 000.