So, you’ve decided to try therapy. Maybe you’re here because life feels like a never-ending episode of The Real Housewives of Existential Crises. Maybe you’re tired of Googling “Am I normal?” at 2 a.m. Or maybe your best friend finally said, “Girl, you need therapy,” and you realized they were right. Whatever brought you here, welcome!

But let’s be real: starting therapy can feel awkward. Like, first-date-meets-job-interview-meets-confession-booth awkward. Spoiler: It’s normal to cry, laugh, or accidentally overshare about your childhood pet. (RIP, Mr. Whiskers.)

As a 29-year-old therapist, mom of one, and wife to a police officer, I’ve seen it all—from the nervous giggles to the full-on ugly cries. So, let’s break it down and talk about what to expect when you’re expecting… to feel awkward.

1. The First Session: It’s Like a Blind Date, But with More Paperwork

The first session is basically a get-to-know-you. I’ll ask you questions about your life, your goals, and why you’re here. You’ll probably fill out some forms (because, bureaucracy) and maybe feel a little like you’re back in school.

Why it’s awkward: You’re sharing your deepest fears with a stranger who’s taking notes. It’s like a job interview where the job is being vulnerable.

Pro tip: Remember, I’m not here to judge you. I’m here to help. And if it makes you feel better, I’ve probably heard weirder stories than yours. (Yes, even the one about Mr. Whiskers.)

2. The Overshare: When Your Mouth Moves Faster Than Your Brain

At some point, you’ll probably overshare. Maybe it’s about your ex, your mom, or that time you cried in the Target parking lot. (Hey, we’ve all been there.)

Why it’s awkward: Your brain will immediately go into panic mode. “Why did I say that? Do they think I’m crazy? Should I move to another country?”

Pro tip: Oversharing is normal. In fact, it’s kind of the point. Therapy is a safe space to let it all out, even if it feels messy. And trust me, I’ve heard it all—from childhood traumas to weird dreams about your high school math teacher.

3. The Tears: When the Floodgates Open

At some point, you’ll probably cry. Maybe it’s during the first session, maybe it’s during the tenth. Either way, it’s totally normal.

Why it’s awkward: Crying in front of someone can feel vulnerable. You might worry about “looking weak” or “being too much.”

Pro tip: Crying is actually a sign of strength. It means you’re facing your feelings instead of running from them. And don’t worry—I’ve got tissues. Lots of tissues.

4. The Laughter: When You Realize How Absurd Life Is

Therapy isn’t all tears and trauma. Sometimes, it’s downright hilarious. Maybe you’ll laugh at how ridiculous your overthinking is. Maybe you’ll crack a joke about your ex’s questionable fashion choices.

Why it’s awkward: Laughing in therapy can feel weird. “Am I allowed to do this? Is this inappropriate?”

Pro tip: Laughter is healing. It’s a reminder that even in the messiness of life, there’s joy. So, go ahead and laugh. I’ll probably laugh with you.

5. The Breakthrough: When It All Starts to Make Sense

At some point, you’ll have a breakthrough. Maybe it’s realizing why you keep dating the same type of person. Maybe it’s understanding why you’re so hard on yourself.

Why it’s awkward: Breakthroughs can feel intense. You might feel exposed, vulnerable, or even a little scared.

Pro tip: Breakthroughs are worth it. They’re the moments when everything starts to click, and you realize you’re not broken—you’re just human.

The Bottom Line:

Therapy is messy, awkward, and sometimes downright weird. But it’s also one of the most powerful tools we have for healing and growth. So, if you’re feeling nervous, that’s okay. It’s normal to cry, laugh, or accidentally overshare about your childhood pet.

And hey, if all else fails, remember: I’m here to help, not judge. So, grab your tissues, your sense of humor, and let’s do this.

P.S. If you’re nodding along like, “Yep, that’s me,” share this with your group chat. They’ll probably relate too. And if they don’t, they’re lying. 😊✨

P.P.S. Want more tips on surviving therapy? Drop a comment or DM me your biggest therapy awkwardness. Let’s tackle it together! 🐧🍩✨



References:

• American Psychological Association. (2018). Therapy: What to Expect.
• Neff, K. D., & Germer, C. K. (2020). Self-compassion and psychological well-being. Journal of Clinical Psychology.
• Shin, L. M., & Liberzon, I. (2020). The amygdala in stress and anxiety. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences.
• Kazantzis, N., et al. (2021). Cognitive-behavioral therapy for imposter syndrome. Cognitive Therapy and Research.
• Levin, M. E., et al. (2019). Cognitive defusion for anxiety and emotional regulation. Behavior Therapy.