Tips to Overcome the Fear of Starting Counselling in Australia
Last Updated on March 28, 2025 by Prath
Reviewed by April Justice, LICSW
- Published on 28 March 2025
You’ve been thinking about starting counselling for a long time. But every time you get around to doing it, doubt creeps in, and you find yourself putting it off for one reason or the other.
If that sounds familiar, you may be wondering:
- What if my problems aren’t serious enough for counselling?
- What if I don’t find the right counsellor?
- What if I’m not able to open up properly?
- Is counselling really worth the investment?
- What if I’m unable to face the feelings that come up?
If you’re feeling anxious about starting counselling in Australia, know that you’re not alone.
Taking the first step can be daunting, but acknowledging your feelings, understanding the process and preparing beforehand can make it much easier.
In this blog, we take a look at common fears about counselling, explore why they may exist, and provide practical tips to help you overcome them.
This Article Contains:
7 Common Fears About Seeking Counselling
Did you know that 1 out of every 5 Australians aged between 16 and 85 struggle with a mental disorder?
Despite this, many hesitate to seek counselling in Australia due to reasons like societal stigma, fear of the unknown, past negative experiences and fear of facing one’s feelings.
While the exact source of fear may differ from person to person, below are some common concerns that people associate with starting counselling:
1) Fear of Judgement
When we say fear of judgment, it can mean two things:
- Fear of being judged by those around you: This fear exists in many due to social stigma around mental health. You may fear being viewed as ‘weak’ or ‘mentally ill’ if you begin counselling in Australia.
- Fear of being judged by your therapist: You may also feel worried about being judged by your counsellor when you share certain concerns or aspects of your life.
2) Fear of the Unknown
Venturing into counselling for the first time can feel like stepping into unfamiliar territory.
Feeling apprehensive is entirely normal, as the human brain is wired to resist change.
If you feel this particular fear popping up, remind yourself that counselling is a safe space. Your counsellor in Australia is a professional trained to make you feel comfortable and secure.
Researching and learning what to expect in a counselling session can also help ease this fear. (See Tip 2: Research & Understand the Process)
3) Fear of Opening Up to a Stranger
Talking about your personal challenges can be difficult, especially with someone you don’t know well. The idea of opening up to your counsellor – who starts as a stranger – may thus feel intimidating.
However, therapy is a gradual process. A good counsellor will create a comfortable and supportive environment where you can open up at your own pace.
It’s also important to remember that confidentiality is a key aspect of therapy. Anything you say during your sessions will stay between you and your counsellor in Australia.
If you’re facing this fear, scheduling an initial consultation may help ease your mind. (See Tip 3: Schedule an Initial Consultation)
4) Fear of Facing Emotions & Feelings
Counselling may often require confronting one’s feelings, which can be scary for many. You may worry that it’ll open a pandora’s box of emotions and past experiences.
While counselling does bring up emotions, remember that your counsellor is trained to guide you in processing these emotions in a healthy and structured manner.
5) Fear that Therapy Will Go On Forever
There’s a common misconception that counselling goes on indefinitely. This fear can make you hesitant to start counselling in Australia.
In reality, counselling is a goal-oriented process, and you’re free to decide a duration and frequency that works for you. Your counsellor will work with you to craft a personalised plan based on your goals and concerns.
6) Fear of Not Finding the Right Therapist
Being anxious about finding a counsellor you connect with is natural.
You may find yourself thinking:
- What if they don’t understand me?
- What if I don’t feel comfortable with them?
- What if I have to keep switching therapists?
Initial consultations are short pre-cursors that can help you understand if a counsellor is the right fit before committing to counselling sessions with them.
Remember that you can also change your therapist at any stage of your therapeutic journey.
7) Fear of Losing Control
Some people fear that counselling may push them towards directions they’re not ready to traverse yet.
However, counselling in Australia is a collaborative process where you’ll always be in control of your mental health journey.
Your counsellor will never force you into discussions or actions that you’re not ready for – they are here to guide you towards your goals at your own pace.
“Change is hard at first, messy in the middle, and gorgeous at the end.” – Robin Sharma.
Take the first step today!
Tips to Overcome the Fear of Starting Counselling
Feeling nervous about starting counselling in Australia is absolutely normal. Whether it’s the uncertainty involved in the process, fear of judgement or concerns about opening up, these worries can make taking the first step feel overwhelming.
The good news is that there are practical strategies to ease into the process at a pace that feels right to you.
Here are some tips to help you overcome your fears and approach counselling services with confidence.
Tip 1: Acknowledge & Validate Your Concerns
Whenever you feel a negative emotion, such as fear, your reflex may be to push it away or ignore it.
Instead of doing that, take a moment to acknowledge and validate your concerns about starting counselling in Australia.
Ask yourself: “What am I afraid of?”
Identifying what exactly you’re afraid of can make your fears more manageable.
Remind yourself that reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness. In fact, it’s a sign of strength – a bold step towards improving your mental well-being.
Tip 2: Research & Understand the Process
Uncertainty often fuels fear and anxiety, but knowledge is a powerful balm that can ease these uncomfortable emotions.
Understanding how counselling sessions work and researching your therapist beforehand may help you navigate this process better.
The more informed you are, the more prepared you’ll feel to reach out to a counsellor in Australia.
Some ways to do this include:
- Reading about different counselling services and approaches
- Learning what to expect in the first session
- Researching your counsellor’s profile
- Checking out testimonials or experiences shared by others
- Talking to people you know who are in therapy
Tip 3: Talk to a Loved One for Support
Opening up about your fears to someone you trust – a friend, family member or partner – can make a huge difference.
They may have personal experience with professional counselling or may offer reassurance.
Sometimes, just voicing your concerns can also help you feel better.
Having heartfelt conversations with loved ones can normalise the idea of seeking help and remind you that you have people to support you through this journey.
Tip 4: Schedule an Initial Consultation
You don’t have to commit to long-term counselling sessions right off the bat.
Many counsellors in Australia offer short initial consultations where you and the therapist can get to know each other.
This first conversation is a low-pressure interaction that may help you decide if a counsellor is the right fit for you.
Initial consultations are a great way to:
- Understand your therapist’s counselling approach
- Gauge how you feel interacting with them
- Discuss your goals for counselling
- Ask any questions or concerns you may have about counselling
Tip 5: Take Small & Manageable Steps
Starting counselling may feel like a giant leap, but it doesn’t have to be!
Breaking down the process into small and manageable steps can ensure that it’s not overwhelming.
Following are some steps that you can take:
- Write down your goals for counselling
- Explore different types and approaches of counselling in Australia
- Talk to a loved one about your fears and concerns
- Shortlist counsellors and schedule initial consultations
- Choose your counsellor and book one session
Tip 6: Prepare for Your First Session
Before your first session, take some time to reflect on your goals, set realistic expectations, get the logistics sorted and practise relaxation techniques.
Below are ways in which you can prepare:
- Jot down your key goals for counselling and any feelings, concerns or questions that may crop up.
- Keep in mind that a single session can’t solve all your problems at once. Hence, it’s crucial to step into counselling with realistic expectations.
- Ensure the logistics are clear beforehand – eg a stable internet connection for online counselling and transportation plans for in-person counselling.
If you’re experiencing any last-minute jitters before your first counselling session, try practising relaxation techniques (eg deep breathing, mindfulness meditations and quick body scans).
Entering your counselling session in a relaxed state of mind can help you open up and engage better with your counsellor in Australia.
Above all, remind yourself that you don’t need to have everything figured out before your first session. Your counsellor is there to guide you through every step of the therapeutic process!
Key Takeaways
Starting counselling is a big step, and it’s natural to feel apprehensive about it.
Here’s a quick recap of some actionable tips to overcome your fears:
- Recognise and validate your concerns: It’s okay to feel unsure or afraid. Identifying your fears and acknowledging them is the first step.
- Research and understand the process: Knowledge is your best friend! Take the time to explore different types of counselling and how they work.
- Lean on your loved ones: Sharing your concerns with a friend or family member can help you feel better.
- Book an initial consultation: Schedule a quick consultation with your counsellor to understand how counselling works and clarify your concerns.
- Take things one step at a time: Progress can be made through small, actionable steps. Travel through the process at your own pace.
- Get ready for your first session: A little bit of planning and reflection before your first session can go a long way.
The first step may feel scary – but you don’t have to face it alone!
Counsellors at TYHO (Talk Your Heart Out) are here to guide and support you through your mental health journey.
Start your journey by reaching out to a TYHO counsellor in Australia today!
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