People seek counseling for diverse reasons. Some enter therapy to navigate major life changes like divorce, while others address mental health conditions such as depression. Contrary to the misconception that therapy is only for those labeled as "crazy," most clients are ordinary individuals dealing with everyday challenges.

Counseling often targets specific goals, prompted by personal recognition or encouragement from family, friends, or professionals. Some attend therapy due to legal requirements or parental decisions for minors. Courage is needed to begin therapy, and commitment is essential to its success. Collaboratively, clients and therapists establish goals, deciding on the therapy's duration. Beyond the initial problem, therapy can foster self-actualization, facilitate personal growth, enhance relationships, and alleviate emotional distress.

Commonly treated issues in therapy include: