Seeking Therapy Today: Why It’s Important and How It’s Changed

Therapy can benefit everyone and anyone, and mental illnesses affect people of all ages. However, Cara Maksimov, LCSW says she sees generational differences in the openness to therapy. Older generations may be more secretive or ashamed about seeing a therapist, or the stigma may prevent them from seeking help.

On the other hand, younger generations are less likely to hide it, and may even openly discuss therapy with their friends or on social media. This has helped reduce the stigma of mental illnesses. The good news: U.S. adults seem to be more open to getting help than ever before. In 2021, 47.2 percent of adults received some type of mental health service, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. If you’re nervous about seeing a therapist, find out what to expect at your first therapy appointment.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Brian Clista, MD

Dr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts