Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Start Therapy — Even If You're Feeling Okay
As a therapist, I often see an influx of clients seeking help when they're in crisis — when anxiety is through the roof, depression feels unbearable, or relationships are falling apart. It’s completely understandable as pain often pushes us to seek support. But what if I told you that the best time to engage in therapy might actually be during the quiet seasons — like summer, or when your mental health symptoms aren't at their peak?
Here’s why leaning into therapy when you’re “doing okay” can be one of the healthiest, most transformative choices you can make.
1. You Have More Emotional Capacity to Reflect and Grow
When you're not in crisis mode, your brain isn't constantly trying to survive. That means there's more mental and emotional space to engage in deeper reflection and self-exploration. You’re able to consider new perspectives, build insight, and practice tools without feeling overwhelmed.
In summer, many people experience a natural mood boost from increased sunlight, time outdoors, and a break from the hectic pace of the school year or work deadlines. This can create an ideal emotional environment to begin (or revisit) therapy.
2. Therapy Isn’t Just for Crisis — It’s for Growth
We often think of therapy as a last resort, but it’s also an incredible tool for self-development. When things are relatively stable, therapy can help you:
Deepen your self-awareness
Improve communication and boundary-setting
Explore identity and purpose
Heal lingering emotional wounds
Create sustainable routines and healthy habits
In other words, therapy isn’t just about putting out fires — it’s about fireproofing your life.
3. It Can Help You Prepare for Future Challenges
Let’s be honest — life is full of ups and downs. Engaging in therapy when you’re feeling steady gives you time to build a strong foundation before the next wave hits. You can learn and practice coping strategies before you need them, rather than scrambling for help when you're already struggling.
Think of it like going to physical therapy before a marathon. You’re not injured — you're preparing your body to handle stress and strain with resilience. The same concept applies to your mental health.
4. A More Flexible Schedule Makes it Easier to Commit
For many people, summer comes with a lighter or more flexible schedule — school is out, workloads may ease up, and vacation days are more frequent. This flexibility can make it easier to start therapy and commit to a consistent routine. You’re less likely to cancel or reschedule, which means better continuity and progress in your work.
5. Preventative Care is Powerful
Just as we go to the dentist for regular cleanings or get annual physicals, therapy can serve as preventive care for your emotional and mental well-being. Addressing small concerns before they snowball into bigger issues can save you significant pain and effort down the road.
Therapy isn’t just for the hardest times — it’s for all times. Beginning therapy in the summer (or during a period of emotional stability) allows you to use your strengths, explore your inner world, and build resilience that lasts.
So if you’ve been thinking about starting therapy but feel like you’re “not struggling enough,” consider this your gentle nudge: you don’t have to be in crisis to benefit. In fact, this might be the perfect time to begin.
Your future self will thank you.
If you are located in the states of South Dakota or Colorado and are ready to explore therapy this summer, contact me here.
If you are located outside of South Dakota or Colorado, please reach out to a licensed professional in your state. I recommend searching for an in-network provider on psychology today for your local state/area.
If you're curious, reach out — even just to ask questions. The door doesn’t have to open with urgency. Sometimes, it opens with curiosity.