Signs You’re Ready to Start Therapy (Even If You’re Nervous)

Deciding to start therapy is a big step—and it's completely normal to feel a mix of emotions about it. You might be excited, relieved, uncertain, or even a little scared. At Sprout Therapy PDX, we’re here to remind you: feeling nervous doesn’t mean you’re not ready. Sometimes the best time to begin therapy is before things feel "bad enough." Here are some signs that you might be ready to take that first step.

1. You Feel Stuck Maybe you keep running into the same patterns—in relationships, at work, or with yourself. You might feel like you’ve "tried everything," but change isn't happening. Therapy can help you break free from cycles that feel unshakable.

2. You're Tired of Managing Everything Alone If you find yourself thinking, "I should be able to handle this by myself," but deep down you're craving support, it's a sign you're ready. Therapy provides a space where you don't have to carry it all alone.

3. Your Emotions Feel Bigger Than Usual Whether it's anxiety, anger, sadness, or even numbness, intense emotional experiences are a nudge that your mind and body are asking for extra care.

4. Life Transitions Are Feeling Overwhelming Changes—even positive ones like a new job, a move, or a relationship—can bring up complicated emotions. Therapy helps you process transitions and build resilience.

5. You Want to Understand Yourself Better You don't have to be "in crisis" to benefit from therapy. Many people start therapy simply because they want to learn more about themselves, explore their identity, or live with more intention.

6. You Keep Wondering If Therapy Could Help If therapy has been on your mind, that curiosity itself is a sign you're ready. You don't have to wait until things get "bad enough" to invest in your mental health.

It's Normal to Feel Nervous Starting something new—especially something as vulnerable as therapy—can bring up fear and uncertainty. That’s okay. At Sprout Therapy PDX, our progressive, inclusive therapists are here to meet you with warmth, respect, and patience. We accept most OHP plans, Kaiser, PacificSource, and offer telehealth and in-person sessions throughout Oregon.

Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, curious, or simply wanting more for yourself? That’s all the readiness you need.

Thinking about starting therapy? Let’s talk. Contact Sprout Therapy PDX today to get matched with a therapist who’s a good fit for you.