How Do I Know If I Need Therapy?

You don’t have to be in crisis to see a therapist. In fact, many of the people we support at Plum Psychology are high-functioning professionals who appear to be holding it all together but feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or disconnected underneath.

Therapy isn’t just for moments when life has completely fallen apart. It’s for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, improve resilience, and stop stress from turning into burnout or anxiety.

If you’re wondering whether therapy could help, here are some signs it might be time.

Signs It Might Be Time for Therapy

1. You Feel Stuck in Unhealthy Patterns

Many of our clients come to therapy when they're fed up with patterns that don't feel good or when those patterns have led to negative consequences. For example, pushing others away, taking on too much work, or failing to care for yourself can lead to loneliness, burnout, poor health, sadness, and anxiety. This can create a vicious loop where we end up doing more of the things we know aren't helping because they provide temporary relief from those negative emotions. Therapy can help you break free from those patterns.

2. Life Doesn’t Feel Good Anymore

If your quality of life isn't good despite appearances, it might be time to seek help. Perhaps you struggle to fill up from your hobbies, social connections, and downtime. Maybe you don't know how to switch off, are always worrying or planning, or replaying difficult conversations. Therapy can help you step back, understand what’s driving this imbalance—be it perfectionism, fear of failure, workplace culture, or past experiences—and rebuild a life that’s successful and sustainable.

3. You’re Noticing More Physical and Emotional Signs

Sometimes the first clue that something isn’t right is a shift in how you feel day to day. You might find yourself more irritable or tearful, less motivated, or struggling to concentrate. Physically, you might notice constant fatigue, headaches, stomach issues, disrupted sleep, or a racing heart even when you’re trying to rest.

If these symptoms continue past a few days or after a stressful period has ended, they could indicate burnout, or emerging anxiety or depression. Therapy can help you understand what these signs are pointing to and address them before they escalate.

4. Relationships Feel Harder Than They Should

You may find yourself irritable, withdrawn, or people-pleasing to keep the peace. Sometimes past experiences, including trauma or toxic workplaces, shape how safe you feel when setting boundaries or asking for what you need. Therapy can help you understand these patterns and build healthier ways to relate.

5. Big Life Changes Feel Destabilizing

Career moves, parenthood, bereavement, health issues, or relationship shifts can all overload us. We also work with people through seemingly positive changes because even these can bring up a sense of loss, decision fatigue, or be overwhelming. Therapy offers a safe, structured space to process what’s happening and re-find your footing.

6. You’ve Been Through Something Intense or Traumatic

Difficult events can stay with us even if you're trying to distract yourself. If you experience flashbacks, panic, intrusive memories, or a constant sense of threat, therapy—especially trauma-focused approaches such as EMDR—can help your brain and body process those experiences so you can feel calmer and safer.

It’s OK to Seek Help Before Things Get Worse

One of the most common regrets clients share is: “I wish I hadn’t waited so long.” Therapy isn’t a last resort or a sign that you're broken; it’s a proactive step to keep you functioning well and feeling like yourself again.

A Quick Note on More Serious Symptoms

Most people who seek therapy aren’t in crisis, but if you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s important to get help promptly:

• Feeling unable to keep yourself safe or thoughts of harming yourself or others

• Intense hopelessness or feeling you can’t go on

• Hearing voices, seeing things others don’t, or feeling out of touch with reality

• Severe mood swings that affect daily functioning

• Sudden inability to care for yourself or others who depend on you

  
  

If any of these apply, seek urgent support. In the UK, you can call NHS 111, Samaritans (116 123), or go to A&E if you feel unsafe.

Working with Plum Psychology

At Plum Psychology, we specialize in helping busy professionals and anxious achievers recover from burnout, anxiety, and trauma. Our team offers:

• Evidence-based therapy (CBT, ACT, CFT, EMDR) tailored to you, which are recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE).

• EMDR Intensives—a fast-track option for people who want focused, accelerated progress.

• Compassionate, high-impact support online or in Somerset.

  
  

Whether you’re unsure if your situation “counts” or you already know you want help, our therapists will guide you to the right pathway.

👉 Book an initial consultation

FAQs

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You don’t need a formal diagnosis—therapy is for anyone who wants to feel and function better.

Is it normal to feel nervous about starting therapy?

Absolutely. Many people feel unsure or fear it means they’re “failing.” Seeking help is actually a sign of strength.

What if I’m not sure I’m “bad enough”?

If you’re asking the question, it’s worth exploring. Therapy can help before things reach breaking point.

How long does therapy take?

It varies. Some people benefit from short-term focused sessions; others want deeper, long-term work. We’ll discuss options and pacing at your first meeting.

Bottom line:

If you’re questioning whether therapy could help, that’s often the clearest signal it’s time to talk to someone. You don’t have to wait until you’re at crisis point.

Author: Dr. Claire Plumbly is a clinical psychologist, EMDR Consultant, and founder of Plum Psychology. She has over 20 years of experience working in mental health.