Therapists answer…

For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?

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Lisa LeMaster
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
The fact that you're even considering therapy means you're already showing incredible self-awareness and courage. You're thinking about opening up to a stranger about some of the most personal parts of your life - of course that feels scary. Most people worry they'll be judged, or that they'll have to defend who they are, or that the therapist won't understand their world. I get it. I've been on both sides of this - as someone who was hesitant to try therapy myself, and now as someone who sees how that fear keeps so many people stuck. You don't have to have it all figured out before your first session. You don't have to be "broken enough" to deserve help, and you don't have to be ready to change everything about your life. Therapy isn't about fixing what's wrong with you - it's about creating space to explore what you need and helping you trust your own instincts again. The hardest part is often that first phone call or email. But once you're sitting across from the right person (or on a video call), you'll know pretty quickly if it feels safe. That's why I offer that free 15-minute consultation - so you can get a sense of whether we feel like a good fit before you commit to anything. Your hesitation is valid, and so is your desire for something to feel different. You deserve support, and reaching out for it is actually one of the strongest things you can do.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals and men's trauma. I believe everyone deserves a space where they can show up exactly as they are without judgment.My approach is grounded in the belief that you're the expert on your own life - my role is to bring my training and skills alongside your wisdom about yourself, creating a safe place where you can explore your truth at your own pace. I use trauma-informed approaches including CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and Narrative Therapy to help clients process difficult experiences and reclaim their power. Whether you're navigating identity exploration, relationship challenges, life transitions, or healing from trauma, I'm here to create that safe space where real growth can happen. Because you deserve to be seen, heard, and supported exactly as you are.
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Jessica Chichester
Jessica Chichester, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy is a safe space to explore your feelings, challenges, and goals without judgment. It’s a collaborative process where we work together to create a plan that supports your well-being. Starting therapy can feel daunting, but it’s a courageous step toward positive change and growth.
I'm a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to holistic care, treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and more for overall wellness. Hello! I’m Jessica Chichester, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping individuals navigate their unique mental health journeys. With a comprehensive background in mental health and family practice, I specialize in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, insomnia, and life transitions. I take pride in offering holistic, personalized care that goes beyond symptom management. My approach combines evidence-based medication management with brief supportive therapy to address emotional well-being. I also incorporate lifestyle counseling on nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress management, recognizing that mental health is deeply interconnected with physical health and daily habits. At the core of my practice is a commitment to collaboration and empowerment. I believe in partnering with my clients to create a treatment plan that aligns with their personal goals, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and actively involved in their care. My goal is to foster a welcoming and supportive environment where clients feel confident in taking steps toward improved mental health and overall well-being. Whether you're navigating life transitions or managing chronic conditions, I look forward to supporting you in achieving a healthier and more balanced life. Treatment philosophy: My treatment philosophy centers on providing compassionate, individualized care that respects each client’s unique needs and experiences. I combine evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy and lifestyle counseling to promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Collaboration is key—I empower clients to take an active role in their care, fostering a sense of ownership and confidence. Together, we’ll create a personalized path to wellness, ensuring accessible and comprehensive mental health support.
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Dr. Jon Michael Saenz
Jon-Michael Saenz, MD, BS
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
For those hesitant to try therapy, I want you to know that therapy is a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and emotions with support. It’s not about being “broken” but about gaining tools to better understand yourself and improve your well-being. You don’t have to go through challenges alone—therapy is a partnership that can help you heal and grow at your own pace.
I am Dr. Jon-Michael A. Saenz, a committed psychiatrist with extensive training and experience in managing severe mental illnesses and mood disorders. I obtained my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at Tufts Medical Center. Following this, I pursued a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry, where I specialized in treating substance use disorders, personality disorders, as well as severe mania and psychosis. A major part of this training is the ability to clearly communicate complex issues to both patients and others outside the mental health field. My professional experience includes working at Bridgewater State Hospital, Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital, and the Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller Mental Health Center, where I refined my skills in addressing a diverse array of mental health conditions. My practice is grounded in a patient-centered approach, always striving to provide individualized and compassionate care. I hold medical licenses in both North Carolina and Massachusetts and possess certifications that enable me to prescribe specialized treatments, including controlled substances and Suboxone. My dedication to excellence in psychiatry has been recognized through multiple Outstanding Resident Teacher Awards during my residency. My mission is to make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of my patients, and I am here to support you on your journey to improved mental health.
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