Want to Help Someone Start Therapy? Here’s How to Make It Easier

We All Know Someone Who Needs Therapy But Is Hesitant to Go

We’ve all been there. You have a friend who’s struggling, whether they’re constantly in toxic relationships, drowning in work stress, or keeping things bottled up because they feel like they have to handle everything on their own. Maybe that friend is someone you care deeply about. Maybe that person is you.

We know therapy can make a world of difference. It’s a safe space to process feelings, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and work through life’s challenges. But despite this, there’s always a hesitation to take the first step. As soon as we bring it up—whether we say, “You should try therapy” or “I think therapy could really help”—the walls go up. And that hesitation is often followed by the most common response: “I don’t need it” or “It’s not that bad.”

So, what can we do to help someone get past that hesitation without pushing them too hard?

Therapy is for Everyone

It’s important to remember that therapy isn’t just for people in crisis. It’s for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, improve relationships, or simply have a space to work through life’s challenges. Mental health struggles don’t have to hit a breaking point before seeking support. Therapy is for personal growth, for anyone wanting to feel better or process difficult emotions. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or emotionally drained, therapy is for you. And the same goes for your loved ones.

We have to normalize therapy. It’s just another form of self-care—like visiting a doctor when you’re feeling physically unwell or hitting the gym to stay in shape. When we normalize it, we help break down the stigma surrounding it. If therapy is viewed as a natural, proactive way to take care of our mental health, it becomes less intimidating.

“I Don’t Need Therapy”

It’s common for people to think they need to be in a crisis before therapy is necessary. We tend to think therapy is for “serious” issues, when in reality, therapy can help anyone—from those struggling with everyday stress and anxiety to those who simply want to understand themselves better.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the same emotional pattern or needed support in navigating difficult situations, therapy could be the missing piece. It’s not about being “broken” or “too far gone”—it’s about getting the support you deserve. Therapy is for everyone, and it’s okay to reach out when things feel heavy, even if they don’t feel “bad enough.”

Encourage Without Pushing

If you know someone who is hesitant to try therapy, how can you help them take the first step without making them feel pressured?

1. Normalize it – Mention therapy casually. Talk about it like any other form of self-care. Share your own experiences or mention how therapy has helped people you know. The more we speak about it openly, the less intimidating it becomes.

2. Validate their feelings – Instead of offering solutions, simply listen and validate their emotions. Acknowledge their struggles and show empathy. A phrase like, “That sounds really tough. I can understand why you feel that way,” can help them feel heard and understood.

3. Offer resources gently – Share a resource, whether it’s a helpful article, a podcast, or a post about therapy. Offer it casually, without pressure. This lets them know that the option is there when they’re ready, without forcing the conversation.

4. Reframe the question – Rather than saying, “Have you considered therapy?” ask, “Would you like to talk to someone who specializes in this?” This subtle change in wording can make therapy feel more like an invitation than a suggestion.

At the end of the day, the decision to seek therapy has to come from the individual. But offering support, validation, and resources without pushing can create an environment where they feel safe enough to explore therapy when they’re ready.

Take the First Step with Hibiscus Counselling

At Hibiscus Counselling, we understand how daunting that first step can feel. But you don’t have to face it alone. Our team is here to support you in a non-judgmental, compassionate environment. Whether it’s your first time seeking therapy or you’ve been before, we’re here to help you find the path to healing and personal growth.

If you’re ready to take the first step—or if you know someone who is—we’re here to support you. Visit https://www.hibiscuscounselling.com/therapyto schedule a session or learn more about how we can help.

You don’t have to struggle alone. Therapy is a safe space to find understanding, clarity, and the support you deserve.