How do I know I’m ready to start therapy?

Reaching the decision to start therapy isn’t always easy. You might have been thinking about counselling in Cardiff for weeks, months—or even years. Often, the question isn’t whether therapy can help, but when is the right time to begin?

The truth is, many people find that their issues come and go, or feel manageable—until they don’t. For some, it’s only at the point of crisis or burnout that they seek support. But therapy isn’t just for crisis—it’s also a space to grow, gain clarity, and build coping strategies before things reach breaking point.

If You’re Contemplating Therapy…

As a Cardiff counsellor, I’ve supported many individuals who spent a long time in the “thinking about it” stage before making contact. Here are some important things to consider if you’re on the fence about reaching out.

1. Start By Reaching Out

If you feel able, try opening up to someone you trust. Talking to a friend, family member, or colleague about how you’re feeling can be a powerful first step. If you don’t feel safe or comfortable doing that—or don’t have someone close—consider speaking to your GP or contacting a local Cardiff therapist directly.

Even reaching out to a counsellor in Cardiff for an initial conversation can be enough to help you feel less alone and more hopeful.

2. Do Some Research—but Keep It Simple

There are many types of therapy (CBT, psychodynamic, integrative, person-centred), and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The truth? The relationship between you and your therapist matters most—more than the type of therapy.

Browse local therapist websites. Does the counsellor’s approach feel accessible and welcoming? Do you feel you could talk to them? Many Cardiff counselling professionals offer a free phone consultation or initial session—use this to get a feel for who they are and how they work.

3. Should I Pay for Therapy or Wait for the NHS?

If you’re considering therapy in Cardiff, you might be weighing up whether to seek help privately or go through the NHS.

While NHS therapy is a wonderful resource, the waiting lists can be long—often 6+ months. Local charities or low-cost providers may also have delays. If your mental health is starting to impact your day-to-day life and you can afford to invest in private sessions, starting sooner can make a real difference.

Worried about cost? A good therapist will help you plan a workable approach—maybe fortnightly sessions, or agreeing a number of sessions in advance. Don’t let money worries stop you from exploring support.

4. Therapy Requires Commitment—But It’s Collaborative

Therapy isn’t passive. It involves reflection, effort, and emotional honesty. Your therapist may suggest exercises between sessions or simply encourage you to reflect on insights as they arise.

It’s also okay to be nervous, guarded, or unsure what to say—that’s part of the process. Therapy in Cardiff (or anywhere) is not about having all the answers. It’s about working with someone who will hold space for you, without judgement, while you find them.

I always suggest clients start by thinking about:

• What’s been difficult lately?

• What do you hope to gain from counselling?

• What would “feeling better” look like?

Even writing down your thoughts before your first session can be incredibly helpful.

5. There’s No Perfect Time—Only a Willingness to Begin

If you’ve read this far, you’re already contemplating a change—and that says a lot.

In my work as a Cardiff therapist, I often say: you don’t have to wait until things fall apart to seek support. Taking the first step now means giving yourself the best chance to understand your emotions, grow in self-awareness, and build healthier ways of coping.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, low mood, stress, or just feel stuck, therapy can offer a safe space to explore what’s going on beneath the surface. You don’t have to go through this alone.

If you’re considering counselling in Cardiff, I offer a free consultation and would be happy to answer any questions you have about starting therapy.

📩 Feel free to get in touch or share this post with someone who might find it helpful.