By Claire Tune, Counsellor and Supervisor in Godalming, Surrey

If you’ve been thinking about counselling but aren’t sure whether it’s really for you, you’re not alone.

Many adults reach a point where life feels heavy… juggling work, relationships, family and expectations yet they hesitate to reach out for support. There’s often that inner voice that says, “Other people have it worse,” or “I should be able to cope on my own.”

But the truth is, giving yourself permission to be heard is one of the kindest steps you can take. Therapy can create a space to understand yourself, your feelings and your needs.

When Life Feels Too Much

In our busy world, it’s easy to push our emotions aside just to get through the day. Maybe you’ve been feeling anxious, flat, disconnected or simply exhausted. You might find yourself putting on a brave face, saying you’re fine when inside you’re anything but.

Sometimes it’s not one big event that brings people to therapy, but a slow build-up of stress, self-doubt or emotional strain. You might notice:

- Difficulty switching off or sleeping
- Feeling irritable, tearful or on edge
- A sense of emptiness or “going through the motions”
- Loss of confidence or motivation
- Feeling isolated even when surrounded by others

Why Reaching Out Can Be So Hard

There’s a common belief that therapy is only for people who are “really struggling.” But counselling can be just as valuable for anyone who feels stuck, uncertain or simply wants to understand themselves better.

It’s natural to feel unsure about opening up to someone new. You might wonder what to expect, whether your problems are “serious enough” or worry about being judged.

Yet the heart of therapy lies in acceptance. It’s a space where you don’t have to perform, explain or be anyone other than yourself. You’re met with empathy, not judgment and that in itself can bring profound change and relief.

How Therapy Helps You Create Space to Be You

Therapy offers a calm, confidential space to explore what’s been weighing on you. It’s not about quick fixes or giving advice, but about helping you understand what’s happening beneath the surface so you can move forward with greater clarity and self-compassion.

In my counselling practice in Godalming and online, I support adults who are navigating:

- Stress, burnout or anxiety
- Low mood or emotional fatigue
- Relationship pressures
- Life changes or uncertainty
- Loss, grief or loneliness

Through our sessions, we explore your experiences at a pace that feels right for you, helping you reconnect with your inner voice, develop healthier boundaries and rediscover what you need to feel grounded again.

The simple act of being heard can lift a weight you didn’t realise you were carrying.

Giving Yourself Permission

It can feel strange, even uncomfortable, to put your own needs first. Many people are used to caring for others, managing responsibilities or holding everything together. But creating space for yourself isn’t selfish… it’s essential.

Taking that first step towards therapy doesn’t mean you’re weak or broken. It means you’re ready to listen to yourself. And from that space, real change and healing can begin.

Ready to Reach Out?

If you’ve been considering counselling in Surrey or online and would like to see how therapy might support you, I offer a free introductory call to help you decide if it feels like the right fit.

You don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. You’re warmly invited to get in touch and begin creating space for yourself today.

FAQS

Do I need to have a specific problem to start counselling?
Not at all. Many people come to therapy simply wanting to understand themselves better or find space to breathe and reflect.

What happens in a counselling session?
Each session is a private, supportive conversation where you set the pace. Together, we explore your thoughts and feelings in a safe, non-judgmental space.

Can therapy help even if I don’t know what’s wrong?
Yes. Sometimes people feel stuck or low without knowing exactly why. Therapy can help uncover underlying emotions and patterns, offering clarity and relief.