Before I started therapy, I realized I couldn’t keep pretending to be okay. I was deeply depressed, overwhelmed, and carrying years and years of pain I didn't have the tools to face by myself no matter how much I tried. When I finally started therapy for the first time, I expected compassion—but instead, my first therapist made me feel judged for struggling and worse than I came in. I left that session feeling even more alone and almost gave up on therapy altogether. But something in me said to try again. Over time, I learned how to recognize when a therapist isn’t the right fit, how to set boundaries, and how to speak up for what I need. I also learned how important it is to find someone who understands my cultural background and identity and have specialties that meet my needs and values. Therapy became more than just a space to talk—it became a space to heal, to find my voice again, and to learn that I deserve support that truly sees and values all of who I am. You deserve that too!