Why Therapy Feels Scary After Abuse

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Starting therapy can be a significant step towards healing, especially after experiencing abuse. It’s normal to feel apprehensive, but understanding these feelings can help you navigate this process.

Recognizing Your Feelings

It’s important to acknowledge the emotions that arise when considering therapy. Fear, anxiety, and uncertainty are common. Here are some strategies to help you cope:

Journal your feelings before your first session.
Practice deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety.
Speak to trusted friends or family about your feelings.

Finding the Right Therapist

Choosing a therapist who understands trauma is crucial. Consider these steps:

Look for therapists with trauma-informed training.
Seek recommendations from local support groups in West Vancouver.
Schedule initial consultations to find a good fit.

Setting Goals for Therapy

Establishing clear goals can help you feel more in control. Try these tips:

Identify specific areas you want to work on.
Write down your goals and share them with your therapist.
Be open to adjusting goals as therapy progresses.

What to Bring / Document

Prepare for your therapy sessions by gathering relevant information to facilitate discussion:

A list of your feelings and experiences related to the abuse.
Any past therapy notes or medical records.
Questions or topics you want to discuss during your first session.

What Happens Next

After your first session, you may feel a mix of relief and apprehension. Here’s what to expect:

Your therapist will help you process your feelings and experiences at your own pace.
Therapy can involve discussing past trauma and developing coping strategies.
Regular sessions will allow you to build a trusting relationship with your therapist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if therapy is right for me?: If you feel overwhelmed by your emotions or past experiences, therapy can be a supportive space for healing.
2. What if I feel uncomfortable during therapy?: It’s okay to feel uncomfortable. Talk to your therapist about your feelings—they are there to support you.
3. How long does therapy usually take?: Therapy duration varies. It’s important to go at your own pace and focus on your healing journey.
4. Can I change therapists if I'm not comfortable?: Yes, finding the right fit is essential. Don’t hesitate to seek someone who feels right for you.
5. What should I do if I feel triggered during a session?: Communicate with your therapist. They can help you navigate those feelings safely.

If you want local help, you can privately browse lawyers, therapists, shelters, and hotlines near you at DV.Support.

Written by

Soraya Patel, JD

Cross-Border Family Lawyer

Reviewed by

Amelia Reyes, MSW

Trauma Counsellor

Last updated

March 1, 2026

Reviewed on

March 1, 2026

Review frequency

Every 6 months

Sources

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Recognizing Your Feelings

It’s important to acknowledge the emotions that arise when considering therapy. Fear, anxiety, and uncertainty are common. Here are some strategies to help you cope:

Journal your feelings before your first session.

Practice deep breathing exercises to manage anxiety.

Speak to trusted friends or family about your feelings.

What Happens Next

After your first session, you may feel a mix of relief and apprehension. Here’s what to expect:

Your therapist will help you process your feelings and experiences at your own pace.

Therapy can involve discussing past trauma and developing coping strategies.

Regular sessions will allow you to build a trusting relationship with your therapist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know if therapy is right for me?

If you feel overwhelmed by your emotions or past experiences, therapy can be a supportive space for healing.

2. What if I feel uncomfortable during therapy?

It’s okay to feel uncomfortable. Talk to your therapist about your feelings—they are there to support you.

3. How long does therapy usually take?

Therapy duration varies. It’s important to go at your own pace and focus on your healing journey.

4. Can I change therapists if I'm not comfortable?

Yes, finding the right fit is essential. Don’t hesitate to seek someone who feels right for you.

5. What should I do if I feel triggered during a session?

Communicate with your therapist. They can help you navigate those feelings safely.

If you want local help, you can privately browse lawyers, therapists, shelters, and hotlines near you at DV.Support.

Why Therapy Feels Scary After Abuse

Recognizing Your Feelings

Finding the Right Therapist

Setting Goals for Therapy

What to Bring / Document

What Happens Next

Frequently Asked Questions

More Help in West Vancouver

Trusted Legal Experts Near West Vancouver

Perceptive Law

Chris Drinovz

Recognizing Your Feelings

Finding the Right Therapist

Setting Goals for Therapy

What to Bring / Document

What Happens Next

Frequently Asked Questions

Trusted Legal Experts Near West Vancouver

Perceptive Law

Chris Drinovz