Honest Conversations Can Strengthen Connection
Deciding to start therapy is a personal and powerful step—but sharing that decision with loved ones can feel complicated. Whether you’re looking for support, navigating stigma, or just want to explain your choice, talking about therapy can be both vulnerable and empowering.
At WILA, we believe therapy is something to be honored—not hidden. Here’s how to approach this conversation with clarity, confidence, and compassion—no matter who you’re speaking with.
Start with Why You’re Sharing
You don’t owe anyone an explanation, but if you’re choosing to open up, it can help to be intentional. Are you hoping for support? Understanding? Simply practicing openness? Clarifying your goal will help guide the tone and content of your conversation.
You might say:
– “I wanted to share something important because I value our relationship.”
– “I’m starting therapy, and I thought it might be helpful for us to talk about it.”
– “I’m not looking for advice—I just wanted to be honest about what I’m working on.”
Use Language That Feels True to You
Therapy can mean different things to different people. Use language that aligns with your values and comfort level. You might describe it as a space for growth, reflection, support, or healing. Learn more at www.wila.org/
Some examples:
– “It’s helping me better understand myself and my patterns.”
– “I’m learning how to manage stress and anxiety in healthier ways.”
– “It’s just a space for me to slow down and process things with someone neutral.”
Anticipate Mixed Reactions—and Stay Grounded
Not everyone will respond with immediate support. Some may be surprised, curious, or unsure how to react. That’s okay. Their reaction is not a reflection of your choice—it may reflect their own experiences or misunderstandings about therapy.
If someone responds with confusion or discomfort, you can calmly say:
– “I know therapy isn’t something everyone talks about openly, but it’s been really helpful for me.”
– “You don’t have to fully understand it—I just wanted to share something that’s important to me.”
Keep Boundaries Around What You Share
You don’t have to share everything. Choose what feels right to reveal, and what you’d prefer to keep private. It’s okay to set limits, especially if a loved one begins asking questions that feel too personal or premature.
Boundaries you can use:
– “I’m still figuring things out—I’ll share more when I’m ready.”
– “Right now, I just need support, not solutions.”
– “Thanks for asking, but I’d rather not go into that part just yet.”
When Talking to Parents or Partners
These conversations can carry extra weight, especially if you’re worried about being judged or misunderstood. Try to focus on how therapy is helping you show up more fully—in your relationship, your communication, or your own well-being.
You might say:
– “I’m doing this to take better care of myself—and that helps me show up better in our relationship too.”
– “I’m learning more about how I handle emotions, and it’s giving me tools that help beyond therapy.”
You Get to Own Your Narrative
Starting therapy is a courageous act of self-care—and talking about it can reduce stigma, foster deeper connection, and help others feel less alone. But it’s always your choice when, how, and with whom to share.
At WILA, we support every step of your journey—including the moments where you choose to let others in. Whether you’re talking to friends, family, or your partner, know that honesty, compassion, and boundaries can coexist in powerful ways.