Choosing to Prioritise Yourself: My First Experience of Therapy
- clarepaynecounsell
- Sep 17, 2025
- 2 min read
In a recent post, I wrote about how the relationship you build with your counsellor can be one of the most healing and transformative parts of the work. I’d like to share a little of my own story of coming to therapy, as I know many people wonder what it might feel like to take that first step.
My first experience of counselling came through the gentle encouragement of a friend, who suggested that I might be happier with the right support. With her help, I found a counsellor and went along for an initial in-person session. It felt tough, but I sensed it was worth committing to. So I returned the next week, and the week after that, eventually attending weekly sessions for a full year.
At the time, it was not an easy financial decision. I was 30, living in a house share in Brixton, working in what felt like an entry-level role, and still juggling debt from my post-university move to London. Money felt tight and bills were constant. Choosing to invest in weekly counselling felt like a leap.
Looking back now, I can honestly say it was the best money I have ever spent. That year of therapy helped me build resilience, understand myself more deeply, and lay the foundations for how I continue to look after my wellbeing today.
What mattered most wasn’t just “finding the right counsellor” straight away—it was making the decision to prioritise myself. To see my mental and emotional health as something worth investing in.
For anyone considering counselling but worried about the time, the commitment, or the cost: I understand those hesitations deeply. And I also know that the choice to prioritise yourself can be really powerful.
If you have any questions around counselling and to find a therapist you can browse the follow directories:
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