Once upon a time, therapy was whispered about or not mentioned at all. You went through tough times, brushed it off, and just kept going. That was the norm for generations. But somewhere along the way—maybe in the aftershocks of a global pandemic, or maybe in the quiet courage of someone posting their story online, things began to shift.
We’re in a new era now. One where people are more open about their mental health. But with this rise in awareness comes something equally important: the need for more help—and better help.
A Rising Need: What’s Changed?
Mental health awareness isn’t just a trending topic. It’s a cultural shift. Unlike past generations that often pushed mental health under the rug, today’s youth are unafraid to question norms. They want to understand their anxiety, unpack their trauma, and learn how to build healthier lives, not just survive them. The pandemic didn’t start this shift, but it definitely accelerated it. Isolation, loss, and collective anxiety pulled mental health into the spotlight. Now, seeking therapy isn’t seen as weak—it’s increasingly seen as a strength.
And this is good. But it also means we’re facing a new kind of challenge: we don’t just need more therapists—we need great ones.
Not All Therapy Is Created Equal
As more people reach out for help, it’s becoming clear that not just any solution will do. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Have you noticed how wellness communities are popping up everywhere lately?
Running clubs, broadcast channels on Threads, even therapy memes on TikTok, these are all signs that people are searching for connection, understanding, and healing in spaces that feel safe and relatable.
This is why we need therapists who are not just licensed but tuned in.
Therapists who:
- Understand the cultural and generational shifts happening.
- Speak the language of this generation, literally and emotionally.
- Are trained in approaches that go beyond textbook techniques and offer real-world empathy, innovation, and nuance.
Here’s what not everyone knows: therapy comes in many forms. There are different techniques, modalities, and approaches. And sometimes, it takes a little time (and trial and error) to find what works for you.
I’ve been in therapy since I was 15, and to be honest, I didn’t really know why I was there at first. I couldn’t name what I needed. I just knew something wasn’t right. Over time, I encountered different clinics, therapists, and therapeutic approaches. Some felt awkward. Some therapists I just didn’t connect with and that’s completely okay. You don’t have to get it right on the first try. Therapy is a journey. The important thing is to be open to the process and to stay curious until you find the right therapist with the right skills. When that happens, it changes everything.
So… “Where Do We Find These Therapists?”
This isn’t just a call to individuals. It’s a call to action for healthcare systems, organizations, and community leaders. Attracting skilled mental health professionals is not just about hiring; it’s about creating workplaces where they want to stay.
That means:
- Offering real support.
- Creating room for professional development and growth.
- Valuing diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Encouraging creative solutions
The therapists of today (and tomorrow) need to feel safe, valued, and supported so that they can offer the same to their clients.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Mental Health Awareness is just the start. This Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s worth celebrating how far we’ve come. But it’s also a time to look ahead. Awareness is powerful. But access, empathy, and expertise are what truly change lives. As the world becomes more open about mental health, the work is only beginning. We don’t just need more therapists. We need therapists who are ready for this moment and the moments still to come.
