Inspired by insights from Dr. Casey Means’ book, Good Energy, which emphasizes the power of mental health care as an essential part of wellness.
“We have doctors for physical health, mechanics for our cars, trainers for our workouts, accountants for our taxes, and yet we still find it niche or stigmatizing to seek professional help for our mental health. Therapy, counseling, or coaching can be one of the highest-leverage investments you could make to maximize your life.” - Good Energy, Dr. Casey Means
This statement may sound bold, but it highlights a deeply rooted stigma in how we approach mental health. While we readily seek help for our physical bodies, finances, or material possessions, the idea of tending to our minds still feels foreign—or even unnecessary—to many of us. In reality, the mind is foundational to everything else in life. So, if you wouldn't mind entertaining me for a minute while we explore why investing in your mental health is a crucial step toward a happier, healthier, and more resilient life.
Mental Health Support as “Brain Optimization”
We often think of therapy, coaching, or counseling only when we’re in crisis, but consider reframing this: what if mental health support was part of optimizing your life? Just as we go to trainers to reach physical goals or hire financial advisors to guide our investments, mental health professionals can act as “brain coaches” or “optimizers” who help you understand your patterns, unpack your feelings, and move toward greater psychological freedom.
When you work with a therapist, counselor, or coach, you’re not only tackling current challenges but also building tools for the future. Therapy can help prevent repetitive, maladaptive thought patterns that might be holding you back. This type of support isn’t about fixing something “wrong” with you—it’s about developing insight and self-awareness, much like how a workout routine develops strength and stamina. It’s an investment in becoming the best version of yourself.
De-stigmatizing Mental Health Support
Stigma around mental health can be a significant barrier, rooted in messages from society, family, or cultural beliefs. For too long, seeking mental health support has been viewed as a sign of weakness or failure. However, it’s time to question this notion. Seeking help doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’re proactive about understanding yourself, your relationships, and your purpose.
If you’ve ever thought of therapy or coaching as something only for people in crisis, consider it from a new angle: it’s a proactive way to nurture yourself. Therapy is a space where you can grow, heal, and optimize your mental well-being without judgment. Shifting this mindset can help you view therapy, counseling, or coaching as a powerful tool, not as a last resort.
What Therapy Can Do for You
Imagine going through life weighed down by repetitive, unproductive thought patterns. These patterns can trap us in ruts, making it feel like we’re just reacting to life rather than creating it. Therapy provides a structured, guided way to explore these patterns. With a skilled therapist, you can break free from unhelpful habits, gain new perspectives, and learn strategies that support mental clarity, emotional resilience, and inner peace.
One hour a week with a therapist could mean the difference between feeling mentally imprisoned and feeling free. Therapy encourages growth and healing by helping you understand your past, acknowledge your present, and create a more fulfilling future. With regular introspection, therapy can help you make better decisions, manage stress, and handle emotions in a healthier way, all while empowering you to approach life with a deeper understanding of yourself. And as your journey unfolds, the frequency of sessions can adapt to your evolving needs. Some clients find that, after establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, they benefit from monthly “mental health check-ins.” These sessions offer an ongoing space for reflection, guidance, and continued growth, helping them stay aligned with their goals and maintain a balanced mindset. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all; it’s a personalized tool that grows with you.
Finding the Right Therapist or Coach: It’s Worth the Time
Finding the right mental health professional can feel intimidating, especially if you don’t “click” with the first person you meet. But don’t get discouraged—finding the right fit is worth the effort!!!!! Think of it like finding the right doctor or personal trainer. Not every therapist will be the perfect match, but when you find someone who resonates with you, the benefits are substantial.
Here are some tips for finding the right fit:
Do your research: Start by browsing therapist directories, like Psychology Today, or asking trusted friends for recommendations.
Consider specialties: Many therapists have specific expertise, such as trauma, relationships, neurodiversity or anxiety. Finding someone who aligns with your needs can make a difference.
Trust the process: Therapy is a journey, and you don’t have to have everything figured out immediately. Be open to the experience and take your time finding someone who makes you feel comfortable and understood.
Additional Resources
If you’re interested in learning more or taking the next step, here are a few resources to consider:
Therapist directories: Websites like Psychology Today or TherapyDen can help you browse therapists by specialty, insurance, and location.
Local community centers: Many offer mental health services on a sliding scale, making therapy more affordable and accessible. Open Path Collective is another resource that offers a sliding scale.
Books on mental health: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk or Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb offer insights into the therapeutic process and the value of seeking help.
Action Steps for Readers
Reflect: Take a few moments to consider your beliefs about mental health support. Are there any cultural or societal messages that make you hesitate to seek help? Identify and acknowledge them.
Research: Even if you’re not ready to book a session, look up therapists or coaches in your area. Browse their profiles to get a feel for different approaches and specialties.
Connect: Many therapists offer a brief consultation. Use this opportunity to ask questions and gauge if the person feels like a good fit.
Commit: If you’re ready, consider booking a few sessions with an open mind. Remember, therapy is a process, and it’s okay if it takes time to find the right person.
Invest in Yourself
Investing in mental health is one of the highest-leverage decisions you can make for a fulfilling life. Therapy, counseling, and coaching are tools to optimize your mental wellness, unlock your potential, and achieve psychological freedom. Don’t shy away from the concept—embrace it. Just like physical exercise, therapy can help you build resilience, navigate life’s challenges, and live with greater clarity and purpose.
Inspired by the powerful insights of Dr. Casey Means in her book, Good Energy, this perspective on mental health as a form of “brain optimization” urges us to view therapy as one of the best investments we can make in ourselves.
You just made a valuable investment in your understanding, neurodiverse strengths, and mind-body growth—steps toward a fulfilling and empowered life. Thank you for being here.
Investing in our mental health is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Just as we prioritize physical health, financial wellness, and personal goals, nurturing our minds is equally essential. Therapy isn’t about fixing something “wrong”; it’s a path to understanding ourselves better, breaking free from limiting patterns, and creating a life of intention and growth. Whether it’s weekly sessions or monthly mental health check-ins, the journey with a therapist is a personal investment that adapts to our needs, guiding us toward clarity, resilience, and lasting well-being.