No, Therapy Isn’t Just Lying on a Couch and Crying

…But also, sometimes it is. And that’s okay too.

When people hear the word therapy, the images that come up are usually dramatic:
Tears. Tissues. Maybe a mysterious therapist scribbling on a notepad with a serious face.

But here’s the truth:
Therapy can be messy, quiet, awkward, freeing, hilarious, and utterly ordinary—sometimes all in the same session.

Some days, it’s:

• “I don’t even know why I’m crying, I just am.”

• “I didn’t come to talk about my mother but… here we are.”

• “Can I lie on the floor today while I talk?” (Yes, you can.)

• “I’m okay, I swear—oh wait, I’m not.”

Other days, it’s:

• Realising you’re not the only one who overthinks text messages.

• Laughing at something your inner child would say.

• Rewriting a story you’ve told yourself for years.

• Feeling a little lighter when you walk out the door.

Therapy doesn’t have to be scary or intense to be powerful.
It’s often just a space where you don’t have to pretend.
Where your inner world gets to take off its shoes, exhale, and be heard.

You don’t need to “have a big problem” to go to therapy.
You can come in with a tangled-up ball of thoughts and leave with just one clear string.
Or not. That’s okay too.

So if you’ve been wondering what therapy’s really like—it’s a lot more human than you think.
It’s not always deep and serious. Sometimes it’s you, a metaphor about mangoes, and a therapist who’s genuinely rooting for you.

You don’t have to wait for a breakdown.
You can start with curiosity, a sense of humour, and an open heart.

And who knows?
Maybe your couch will become your favourite place after all.