Going to therapy doesn't have the stigma it used to have in the past, but people are still hesitant to take this step. After all, it's a big one that requires patience and commitment.

Some people may ask, "Why do I need a therapist? I can talk to my friends if I want to get something off my chest." Having someone to talk to and blow some steam off is important, but therapists offer more than that. They have the necessary knowledge and experience to help you make a better life for yourself. Their goal isn't to act as your crutch, but to give you the tools you need to be able to stand on your own.

1) Therapy provides a safe space

No matter what's going on with your life, when you're in your therapist's office, you can express yourself however you like and talk about everything you want without having to worry about being judged. Your therapist will help you explore your thoughts and express your feelings. Their job isn't to judge and tell you if something you did was right or wrong. They’re there to listen to what you have to say, to help you see things from a different point of view and understand what makes you act and feel the way you do.

2) You can explore your past in a constructive way

Your therapist will help you explore how you grew up, your relationship with your parents, experiences that affected you, such as childhood trauma, how all those things molded you into the person you are and how all this affects your relationships with other people. These insights can help you move on from past difficulties in a healthy way.

3) You learn what makes you tick

How many times have you said to yourself, "Why did I do that?" or "Why do I always choose people that aren't good for me?"? The self-knowledge you gain from therapy is a valuable tool that can help you understand the reasons that lead you to think, feel, and behave the way you do. Having that self-awareness can help you make healthier decisions in the future.

4) You discover new aspects of yourself

It's quite common to get bogged down by all the negative experiences you've lived through. This can keep you from trying new things and end up stuck inside your shell. Therapy not only can help you get in touch with aspects of yourself that have been buried, but it can also help you learn new life skills.

5) You get a better understanding of your emotions

Surely at some point in your life, you have felt intense anxiety, anger, or sadness. With therapy, you will learn to recognize these emotions and understand their source. Bottling them up is a surefire way to put unnecessary strain on yourself. With the help of your therapist, you will discover why you feel the way you feel and how to express your feelings in a healthy way.

6) You can find acceptance and peace

True inner peace comes when we can truly accept ourselves and those around us for what they are. Acceptance can also mean that you have made peace with the fact that there are things you can't accept, and there's nothing wrong with that. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide if you want to start this journey, but always keep in mind that mental health is as important as physical health.