Therapists answer…

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

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Anahita Shahbazi
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
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 to emphasize that seeking help is a courageous and empowering step towards healing. Therapy is a collaborative process where you are not alone; it’s a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. Healing often begins with acknowledging and embracing our pain, just as the rose emerges from the thorn. Through therapy, you can gain insights, develop healthier coping strategies, and find the support you need to navigate life’s challenges. Your well-being is worth the investment in yourself.
"The purpose of life is to discover our own inherent nobility and to help others discover theirs." – Abdu'l-Bahá. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experience of managing mental health from a young age. This personal journey highlighted the profound power of therapy and inspired me to help others achieve similar transformations. Therapy, to me, is more than a profession—it’s my calling. Every step I take alongside my clients reaffirms the transformative power of hope, healing, and the therapeutic relationships. I have extensive experience and training in treating depression, anxiety disorders, other mood disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trauma/PTSD, relationship issues, grief, and life transitions. Healing isn’t about avoiding pain; it’s about feeling safe enough to face it, embrace it, and grow from it. Much like a rose blooms despite the thorns, I believe in your ability to rise through challenges and thrive. Together, we’ll create a supportive space where you can explore, build resilience, and move confidently toward the life you envision.
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Lisa Papiez
Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Therapy
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Admitting you need and asking for help can be very difficult, but it does not have to be scary. As a therapist, I perceive myself as your cheerleader while gently challenging you to make emotionally healthy changes. Why not try to live a more happy life?
What could the best version of yourself look like? By creating a safe, nurturing environment built on empathy, compassion and trust, together we will identify coping skills, establish healthy boundaries and reframe negative self talk. Together we will work on identifying more confident and healthy life choices. I would be honored to support you through your journey of self awareness and self empowerment. I graduated from Oakland University with a Masters degree in Counseling and a Post Masters Specialization in School Counseling. I earned my Bachelors degree in Sociology. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor. I have 15 years experience working with adolescents and adults . I enjoy working with a variety of clients and I approach each individual with compassion, empathy and unconditional positive regard. I find it important to create a nurturing environment that assists my clients with reaching their full potential.  I work on empowering my clients, while gently challenging them to promote emotional and mental healing. I take a Client Centered, Solution Focused approach while utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Making the decision to start therapy is often not easy but you do not need to struggle alone.
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Helena Marshall LICSW, LCDP
Therapist
Online & In-Person
For people that are hesitant to try therapy, what do you wish you could tell them?
Therapy isn’t just for people at rock bottom. It’s for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, cope with stress, or improve relationships. Even small concerns are valid reasons to seek support. Opening up can feel scary, but therapists are trained to create a space where you can be vulnerable without fear. You set the pace. You decide what to share and when. Feeling anxious, sad, or stuck doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. Therapy helps you explore those feelings and find new ways to cope. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness. Therapy is a collaborative process. You’re not being “fixed”—you’re being supported in discovering your own insights and strengths. Progress takes time. Some sessions may feel light, others heavy. But every step you take is part of building a healthier, more resilient you. If you’re considering therapy but unsure where to start, I can help you explore options, prepare questions for a first session, or even write a message to a potential therapist. Want to take that first step together?
Welcome. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming space where we can work together to understand your challenges, explore your strengths, and create meaningful, positive changes in your life. In our work together, we’ll talk about what you’re experiencing, identify what you’d like to shift, and empower you to take steps toward healing. Recovery is possible. I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches to best fit each individual's needs; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Reality Therapy and motivational interviewing; with focus on problem solving, coping skills, relapse prevention and continued recovery. Treatment is available and there is no shame in seeking support. Take the first step—reach out today. You don’t have to do this alone.
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