Is Counselling Right for Me?
A Guide for People in Newfoundland Considering Therapy
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether counselling is really for you, you’re not alone. Many people think about reaching out for support long before they actually do anything about it. In Newfoundland and Labrador especially, people are often used to handling things on their own, pushing through, and not making a fuss.
You might tell yourself that others have it worse, that you should be able to deal with it, or that what you’re carrying isn’t “serious enough” to talk to a counsellor about. Those thoughts are common—and they’re often the very reasons people wait longer than they need to.
Counselling isn’t only for moments of crisis. For many people, it’s simply a place to slow down, make sense of what’s been weighing on them, and figure out a healthier way forward.
Common Reasons People in Newfoundland Consider Counselling
People seek counselling for all kinds of reasons, and often it’s not just one thing—it’s a buildup over time. Some of the most common concerns we hear from people in Newfoundland and Labrador include:
Ongoing stress, burnout, or feeling overwhelmed
Relationship struggles or feeling disconnected from a partner
Anxiety, low mood, irritability, or trouble sleeping
Grief and loss, including the loss of relationships, roles, or plans for the future
Life transitions such as becoming a parent, returning home after time away, or changing careers
Feeling stuck, numb, or not like yourself anymore
Many people describe it as “holding it together” on the outside while quietly struggling on the inside. Counselling can be a place where you don’t have to carry that alone.
“But Is This Enough to Go to Counselling?”
One of the biggest barriers to starting counselling is the belief that your struggles aren’t serious enough. You might compare yourself to others, minimize what you’re going through, or worry that you’re overreacting.
The truth is, counselling isn’t about measuring pain or deciding whose struggles matter most. You don’t need a diagnosis, a clear label, or a breaking point to reach out. If something is affecting your relationships, your work, your sleep, or how you feel about yourself, it matters.
In fact, many people find counselling most helpful when they start before things reach a crisis point. Talking things through early can prevent small problems from becoming heavier, more tangled ones later on.
Common Myths About Counselling (Especially in Newfoundland)
There are still a lot of misconceptions about counselling, particularly in smaller communities.
“Counselling is only for people in crisis.”
In reality, many people come to counselling to gain clarity, improve communication, or better understand themselves—not because everything is falling apart.
“I should be able to handle this on my own.”
Self-reliance is a strength, but it doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. Counselling isn’t about weakness; it’s about using the support that’s available.
“Talking won’t change anything.”
Counselling is more than just talking. It’s a collaborative process that helps you see patterns, learn practical tools, and make meaningful changes.
“I don’t want to be judged.”
A counsellor’s role isn’t to judge or tell you what to do. It’s to offer a safe, confidential space where you can speak openly and be met with respect.
“Everyone will know my business.”
Confidentiality is taken seriously in counselling. Even in small communities, your privacy is protected.
What Counselling Actually Looks Like
For many people, the first session is the hardest part simply because it’s unfamiliar. A typical counselling session is conversational and collaborative. You’ll have space to talk about what’s been bringing you in, ask questions, and get a sense of how the process works.
Counselling isn’t about being told what to do or digging into things before you’re ready. You set the pace. Some sessions focus on understanding emotions and experiences, while others are more practical—working on communication, coping strategies, or specific goals.
It’s also okay to attend a few sessions and decide whether it feels like the right fit. Counselling works best when you feel comfortable and supported.
In-Person vs Online Counselling in Newfoundland
Living in Newfoundland and Labrador comes with unique realities. Distance, weather, work schedules, and privacy concerns can all affect access to support.
In-person counselling can be helpful for people who prefer face-to-face connection and a dedicated space outside the home. Online counselling, on the other hand, offers flexibility, reduces travel time, and can feel more private—especially in smaller communities.
Many people are surprised by how effective online counselling can be. Strong, meaningful connections can still form, and sessions can fit more easily into busy or unpredictable schedules.
How to Know If a Counsellor Is the Right Fit
Finding the right counsellor matters. Beyond training and credentials, it’s important that you feel heard, respected, and understood.
You’re allowed to ask questions about a counsellor’s approach, experience, and what sessions might look like. It’s also okay if the first person you speak with doesn’t feel like the right match. Counselling is a personal process, and fit plays a big role in how helpful it can be.
Taking the Next Step
If you’ve been wondering whether counselling might help, you don’t have to have everything figured out before reaching out. Often, that curiosity alone is enough to take the next step.
At Landmark Counselling in Bay Roberts, we offer confidential, professional counselling for individuals and couples, both in person and online throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. Booking an appointment can simply be a chance to talk things through, ask questions, and see whether counselling feels right for you.
If you’re ready to begin, we invite you to contact us or book an appointment today.