What Happens in Therapy When You Don’t Know What’s Wrong?

A common reason people delay therapy is the belief that they need to know what’s wrong before they start.

Many people worry they’ll sit down and not know what to say or that their concerns won’t be “serious enough.”

Here’s the truth: not knowing is one of the most common starting points in therapy.

You don’t need a clear problem

Therapy isn’t reserved for crisis or diagnosis.

People often come because they feel:

Stuck

Unsure

Emotionally flat or overwhelmed

Disconnected from themselves

Curious

Like something isn’t quite right.

“I don’t know” is a valid place to begin.

Early sessions are about getting to know you. A therapist may help by:

Asking gentle questions

Reflecting what they notice

Helping you put words to feelings

Creating a sense of safety and trust

There’s no expectation to perform or explain yourself perfectly.

It’s okay if your goals are unclear or evolving. You don’t need to arrive knowing where you’re headed. Therapy can help you understand what matters to you and how you want to live - at your own pace.

If you’ve been hesitant to start because you don’t know what to say, you’re not alone.

You’re allowed to begin exactly where you are.

If you’re reading this and recognising yourself, you’re not alone. Support can exist even when things feel unclear. Therapy offers a space to slow down, reflect, and make sense of what you’re experiencing, without pressure to have all the answers.

Telehealth sessions are available Australia-wide should you wish to explore this further.

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*This content is for entertainment, educational or advertisement purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional therapy, crisis support, or professional training.