3 Reasons to Start Therapy in the Summer
Summer is often a season of rest, freedom, and fun. Hopefully, you’ve been enjoying some time off work, a break from school, and more opportunities for the people and activities that bring you joy. In Canada, the summer months also offer a reprieve from the winter blues. Many people experience low energy, low mood, or seasonal affective disorder during the long dark days of winter. Since 2020, winter has also brought uncertainty and worry related to COVID-19.
On a warm, sunny day in August, therapy might be the last thing on your mind. Many people notice an improvement to their mood as the seasons change, and as life stressors seem to decrease. While it’s important to rest and lean into joy, it’s also smart and strategic to start therapy in the summer. Here are three reasons why:
It’s easier to start therapy when you’re feeling good.
This is the catch-22 of starting therapy. It takes time, energy, patience, and motivation to start therapy, especially for the first time. Many people avoid or delay reaching out for help until they are really struggling. When you’re not feeling well emotionally, it can be harder to look for a therapist, set up initial consultations, or even have the mental space to schedule an appointment.
Summer is a great time to be proactive by starting therapy, especially if you anticipate:Increased stress related to starting or returning to school
Increased stress related to work
Upcoming life transitions (like moving, changing jobs, having a baby, and more)
Low mood or depression during winter months
I always encourage my own friends and loved ones to be proactive. Do your future self a favour. Reach out to a therapist before you think you’ll need one.
You have more time to find the right fit with a therapist.
Research shows that the relationship between a therapist and a client is the strongest indicator of therapy outcomes. That’s why finding the right fit is so important! A therapist’s approach, personality, and lived experiences all impact your experience as a client.
It may take a few tries to find a therapist who is the right fit for you. If you start the process now, you have more time to find the right fit before life gets busy in the fall.
P.S. At Juniper, we make this part easy. Book a free, zero-pressure consultation and get matched to a therapist based on your needs and preferences.You have more time to build rapport with your new therapist.
It can take several sessions to build trust, feel comfortable, and share important parts of your story with your new therapist. It can be easier to work through the getting-to-know-you sessions when you have more time and energy. Summer is a great time to build a relationship with a new therapist, before any of the stressors of the fall or winter begin to mount.
Curious about starting therapy? Book a free, zero-pressure consultation to learn more and get matched to a therapist.
