While it can be very helpful to talk about your problems to close friends and family members, sometimes you need help that the people around you aren’t able to provide. Talking to a therapist or counselor can help when you need extra support, an outside perspective, or some expert guidance. 

While the support of friends and family is still very important, therapy is important in different ways. Therapists are professionally-trained listeners who can help you get to the root of your problems, overcome emotional challenges, and help you make positive changes in your life.

You don’t have to be diagnosed with a mental health problem to benefit from therapy. Many people in therapy seek help for everyday concerns: relationship problems, job stress, or self-doubt. Others turn to therapy during difficult times, such as a divorce. But in order to reap its benefits, it’s important to choose the right therapist—someone you trust who makes you feel cared for and that has the experience to help you make changes to better your quality of life.  A good therapist can help you become stronger and more self-aware.