Do I Need Therapy or Something Else?

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I need therapy?”—you’re not alone.

That question often comes at moments of overwhelm, transition, or just plain stuck-ness. But sometimes it’s followed by even more questions: Is this serious enough for therapy? Would something else be better? What kind of help do I even need?

Let’s break it down.

When therapy might be helpful:

• You’re experiencing anxiety, sadness, or mood swings that interfere with your daily life.

• You’re navigating a major transition—grief, fertility struggles, trauma, relationship changes.

• You feel like old patterns keep showing up (even when you try to change them).

• You’re curious about how your past might be affecting your present.

• You want a safe, nonjudgmental space to go deeper—not just fix things on the surface.

When something else might be a better fit:

• You’re looking for accountability and action steps to meet specific goals (a coach may help).

• You want medical or psychiatric support for symptoms that need diagnosis or medication (a psychiatrist or PCP is a good place to start).

• You’re in crisis and need immediate help (a crisis line or emergency service is best).

But here’s the thing: it’s okay not to know what you need right away.

A good therapist won’t try to “keep” you in therapy if it’s not a fit. In fact, part of our job is helping you figure out what kind of support will serve you best—even if it’s not us.

At Gateway Therapy, I offer a free consultation to explore your needs, answer your questions, and help you make a confident decision about what’s next.

Not sure if therapy is right for you? Let’s talk. I’ll help you sort through your options with clarity and care. Contact me for more information.