This week Maryellen goes back to the basics, with therapy 101! There is so much misinformation out there that getting started can be overwhelming. We hope this episode is a useful resource that can give you some confidence in reaching out for help.   

Having a mental health diagnosis doesn’t mean there is something wrong with you   

There doesn’t have to be something “wrong with you” to go to therapy   

We can't diagnose ourselves   

Online therapy resources & platforms: proceed with caution  

Life coaches, empowerment coaches, and mental health coaches aren’t therapists 

What to talk about at your first session 

Therapists are not mind readers   

It's okay if you're not a match with your first therapist, don’t let that deter you   

Starting therapy or medication is not a life sentence  

Going to a therapist is not the best thing for emergencies 

Psychiatric emergency line: 988   Lifeline if you’re feeling suicidal: 211   For help finding a therapist, visit psychologytoday.com, your primary care doctor, and contact your insurance company.   If you haven’t already, please follow, rate, and review the podcast, and follow us on Instagram @okayishpodcast. To submit questions or stories (anonymously if you’d like) visit okayishpodcast.com!