Encouraging Therapy for Someone you care deeply for
Sometimes the people we care about the most are the ones who carry the heaviest burdens—and they often do it so quietly, we almost miss it.
If you’re reading this, chances are, there is someone in your life, whom you are worried about. They just don’t seem like themselves. Maybe they’re withdrawn, anxious, or overwhelmed. They don’t enjoy living the way they used to, have experienced a life changing event, or their behaviors and decision seem like they could make matters worse. Maybe they’ve confided in you, or their silence is speaking louder than words ever could.
You want to help—but you’re not sure how.
Here’s something we want to say out loud: suggesting therapy to someone you love isn’t a sign that they’re broken. It’s a sign that you believe they’re worthy of support, healing, and peace. Therapy isn’t about weakness—it’s about strength. It takes real courage to sit with your own story and ask for help sorting through it.
If you’ve been thinking about encouraging someone you love to seek therapy, here are a few thoughts to help you approach the conversation with care and understanding:
1. Lead with your heart
Start with compassion. Let them know you’re coming from a place of love, not correction. You’re not trying to fix them—you’re standing beside them, ready to walk with them toward healing. You are not trying to fix them and don’t have all the answers.
“I care about you so much, and I’ve noticed you’ve been carrying a lot lately. I wonder if talking to someone might help lighten the load.”
2. Normalize therapy
Therapy is a tool, not a last resort. It’s a place to process, reflect, and grow. Everyone deserves a space like that. Sometimes just hearing that therapy is normal and okay is all someone needs to hear, to know that they are not alone.
“So many people I know have benefitted from therapy—myself included. It can be really helpful to talk things out with someone who’s trained to support you.”
Talking really can help!
3. Offer support, not pressure
They may not be ready. That’s okay. The goal isn’t to push—it’s to plant a seed, so be patient. Offer to help them explore options or even just sit with them as they think about it.
“If you ever want help finding someone to talk to, I’d be happy to help look with you. No pressure—just know I’m here.”
4. Remind them they’re not alone
Sometimes the hardest part of struggling with mental health is feeling isolated. Remind them that they don’t have to go through it alone.
“You’re not alone in this, and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.”
Encouraging a loved one to seek therapy is one of the most compassionate things you can do. It says: I see you. I care about you. And I believe you deserve peace.
Don’t forget, take care of your heart, too. Supporting someone else starts with offering grace to yourself along the way.
If you’re reading this and you’re the one who’s been struggling—know this: there’s no shame in asking for help. There’s only strength in knowing you deserve it.
