What Is Therapy, Really? Breaking Down the Basics
Welcome to the Well Thinking blog—a space for real conversations about mental health, parenthood, burnout, anxiety, and healing. I’m Laura, a therapist and mom who believes in showing up authentically, practicing what I preach (most days), and helping people live happier, healthier lives—one small shift at a time.
When people hear the word therapy, they usually have a general idea of what it means—talking to someone about your problems, right? Sure, that's part of it. But truly understanding what therapy is, and more importantly, what it means for you, is a whole different thing.
As a therapist, I can tell you that providing therapy makes total sense to me. My goal is simple: to create a safe, secure space for people to be vulnerable, honest, and real about what they’re going through. In that space, I help guide them on their own unique journey toward healing, growth, and whatever version of themselves they want to become.
Sounds beautiful, right? And it is.
But sitting on the other side of the therapy room—that’s a whole different story.
Yes, therapists go to therapy too. (Surprise!) We don’t have it all figured out, and we definitely don’t float through life with endless wisdom and inner peace. Like everyone else, we hit roadblocks, wrestle with anxiety, grieve losses, feel stuck, and question ourselves. Therapy is something many of us need just as much as we recommend it to others.
And let me tell you—being a therapist in therapy? Way harder than you'd think. It’s always easier to look outward and help someone else than to look inward and face your own stuff. A great therapist will practice what they preach, but I’ll be honest—not all do. I try my best to live what I teach, and I’m always growing in that area too.
So, what should therapy feel like?
At its core, therapy is about connection. It’s about feeling safe enough to let your guard down, say the things you’ve been too afraid to say out loud, and know that you won’t be judged for them. A good therapist helps you reflect, grow, heal, challenge old patterns, and ultimately move closer to the life you want.
But here's something people don’t always talk about: not every therapist will be the right fit for you.
If you’re not feeling a connection by your third session, it’s probably not the right match. That therapeutic alliance—that feeling that you’re seen, heard, and supported—is essential. If you’re still uncomfortable or feeling misunderstood after three sessions, it’s time to try someone new.
And yes, I know. That sounds exhausting. Finding a therapist in the first place can be a nightmare. They don’t call you back, they have long waitlists, they don’t take your insurance, they’re 45 minutes away, or they just don’t get what you need.
But when you do find that person? The one who hears you, understands your weird humor, holds space for your hardest stuff, and helps you see your own light? That’s when the real magic begins.
Therapy, at its best, isn’t just about solving problems. It’s about discovering who you are underneath the noise, the pain, the pressure, and the expectations. It’s about learning how to be kind to yourself, to grow, to heal, and to thrive.
It’s not always easy—but it is absolutely worth it.
If you’re curious about starting therapy, struggling to find the right fit, or just need a place to land—reach out. I’d love to connect and help you begin your journey. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Let’s figure out what works for you.
👉 Ready to get started? Contact me or call 630-945-5793 to schedule a free consultation or go to our contact page and fill in the information you will get a response with in 24 hours of inquiry.