When you think about it, not coming to therapy is often scarier and more painful. For many people, therapy is a relief — a place where they can express themselves fully without fear of judgment, criticism, or punishment. At the same time, it can be intimidating to face oneself as a complex person with unflattering traits and qualities as well as flattering ones. The therapeutic process can feel like wandering into the unknown, which is daunting for most people, even if it may ultimately lead somewhere more desirable.