Reasons People Go To Therapy

People go to therapy for a wide range of reasons—some are seeking support through specific life challenges, while others want to improve their mental health or relationships. Here’s a breakdown of common reasons:

1. Mental Health Conditions

• Anxiety or panic attacks

• Depression or mood disorders

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Bipolar disorder

• Eating disorders

2. Life Transitions and Stressors

• Grief and loss (death, divorce, miscarriage)

• Major life changes (moving, new job, retirement)

• Academic or career stress

• Identity exploration or gender/sexuality issues

• Immigration/cultural adjustment

3. Trauma and Abuse

• Childhood trauma or neglect

• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse

• Domestic violence

• Accidents or natural disasters

4. Relationship Issues

• Couples or marriage counseling

• Family conflict

• Difficulties with communication or trust

• Codependency or boundary issues

• Breakups or infidelity

5. Personal Growth and Self-Understanding

• Increasing self-esteem or self-compassion

• Clarifying life goals or values

• Managing perfectionism or people-pleasing

• Developing emotional intelligence

• Exploring spirituality or purpose

6. Behavioral and Coping Challenges

• Anger management

• Substance use or addiction

• Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

• Sleep problems

• Chronic procrastination or motivation issues

7. Support for Specific Populations

• LGBTQ+ support

• Support for caregivers

• Veterans or first responders

• Teens navigating peer pressure or academic stress

• Parents managing parenting stress

8. Preventative Care

• Building coping skills before a crisis hits

• Learning mindfulness or relaxation techniques

• Maintaining mental wellness during stable periods

• Processing everyday stress in a safe, nonjudgmental space