How to Start Therapy

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical health. Therapy is a helpful tool that can provide guidance, coping skills, and a safe place to talk about what you’re going through. 

Mental health providers may include psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, and professional counselors. While their training backgrounds differ, all are trained to support emotional wellness and provide therapeutic care. 

At Denova, we remind people that asking for help is normal. Whether you’re dealing with everyday stress or potentially navigating a more serious mental illness, therapy can help you learn healthier ways to manage life and feel more in control. 

How to Know If You Need Therapy 

You don’t need an official diagnosis to benefit from therapy. Many people start therapy simply because they want to develop tools to manage everyday life better or gain a little extra support. Even if you’re not sure what’s wrong, speaking with a professional can help you better understand your feelings and find healthy ways to cope. 

You may benefit from therapy if you, 

• Feel overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious more than half of the week 
• Experience lingering sadness or emotional distress 
• Have had recent major life changes happen, like moving, a career change, loss of a loved one, or relationship challenges 
• Have trouble sleeping or experience constant fatigue 
• Notice difficulty in concentrating at work or school 
• Experience physical pain when anxious or stressed, like headaches or stomach aches 

Explore Your Options with Different Types of Therapy 

Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. There are a variety of available paths depending on your needs, preferences, and comfort level. 

Individual Therapy 

Individual therapy is a one-on-one therapy session with a licensed therapist. This format allows you to talk openly about your thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a private setting. Your therapist can help you identify patterns, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals. 

Group Therapy 

Group therapy involves meeting with a therapist and several other people who share similar experiences. Many people find comfort in knowing they are not alone. Group therapy can help build communication skills and provide encouragement from others facing similar challenges. 

Telehealth 

Virtual therapy sessions make mental healthcare even more accessible. You can meet with therapists through video calls on your phone or computer from home, or anywhere you feel most comfortable. This is a perfect option for people with busy schedules or who lack geographic access to physical healthcare facilities. 

Peer Support Groups 

Peer support groups bring together individuals who are struggling with similar troubling or unique life experiences, such as addiction recovery, veteran status, grief, and more. These groups often focus on shared understanding, encouragement, and community connection.  

How to Find the Right Therapist for You 

Finding the right therapist is an important part of the process in making sure you feel safe and understood. A good match can make therapy more effective, comfortable, and enjoyable. It’s okay to meet with a few therapists before deciding on who to see regularly. 

Here are a few things to consider when deciding on which professional to see: 

• Look for therapists with experience in the issues you want to address 
• Consider whether you prefer in-person or online therapy 
• Think about which personal character traits you would prefer to interact with when sharing your thoughts and feelings regularly 

What to Expect When Starting Therapy 

Starting therapy usually begins with an intake process. This may include paperwork, consent forms, and questionnaires about your personal history, bothersome symptoms, and goals. 

During your first therapy session, your therapist will likely ask questions to get to know you and better understand your situation. You may talk about your current challenges, past experiences, and what you hope to get out of therapy. 

Tips for a Positive Therapy Experience 

Therapy works best when it becomes a collaborative process between you and your therapist. To see the best results in your experience with therapy, consider: 

• Being honest and open with your therapist 
• Staying consistent with appointment attendance 
• Speaking up if something doesn’t feel right 
• Not being afraid to switch therapists if it isn’t a good fit 
• Tracking your progress and setting goals with your provider 

How to Sign Up for Therapy 

Signing up for therapy is often easier than people expect. At Denova Collaborative Health, we are here to make the process as smooth as possible. You can call us directly at (602) 230-7373 to set up your first session or schedule your appointment on our website: Online Patient Scheduler  

Wondering about Insurance? 

To make mental healthcare as accessible as possible, Denova accepts most insurance plans, including AHCCCS. When calling to make your appointment, you can ask us to confirm your insurance is accepted at Denova, or take a look at a list of our accepted insurance plans at denova.com/Insurance 

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Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but it’s one of the most positive steps you can take for your mental health and overall well-being. If you’re ready to begin your journey toward improved mental health, Denova is here to navigate life’s challenges with you. Your path to healing and growth can start today. You are not alone.