Find Support for People Pleasing

People pleasing refers to a pattern of prioritizing others' needs, desires, and approval over your own. While being considerate of others is healthy, people pleasing often involves saying yes when you want to say no, suppressing your own opinions to avoid conflict, or feeling responsible for others' emotions. Many people who identify as people pleasers find themselves feeling drained, anxious about disappointing others, or unsure of their own preferences and boundaries.

Therapy may help you explore the origins of people pleasing patterns, which often develop in childhood as a way to feel safe or loved. A therapist can support you in identifying your own needs and values, practicing boundary-setting skills, and building self-compassion. Many people find that therapy helps them develop more balanced relationships where they can be caring toward others without losing themselves in the process.

In therapy, you might explore past experiences that shaped your people pleasing patterns, examine current relationships and situations where these patterns show up, and practice new ways of communicating and setting boundaries. Your therapist will work at your pace and create a supportive space where you can begin prioritizing your own needs—perhaps for the first time. Sessions typically involve conversation, reflection, and gradually trying new approaches in your daily life.

Finding the right therapist starts with understanding what you're looking for in a therapeutic relationship. On First Session, you can browse therapist profiles, read about their approaches, and watch intro videos to get a sense of their personality and style. Look for therapists who mention experience with boundaries, self-esteem, relationship patterns, or codependency. When you find someone who feels like a good fit, you can book directly through their profile.

Therapy may be helpful if you frequently feel exhausted from meeting others' expectations, struggle to say no, feel anxious about disappointing people, or have lost touch with your own needs and preferences. If people pleasing is affecting your relationships, work, or sense of self, speaking with a therapist can provide valuable insight and support. Even if you're unsure, an initial conversation with a therapist can help you determine whether it's the right step for you.

Getting started is simple. Browse therapist profiles on First Session to find practitioners who specialize in areas related to people pleasing, such as boundaries, self-esteem, or relationship patterns. Watch their intro videos to find someone whose style resonates with you. When you're ready, book an appointment directly through their profile. Many therapists offer both online and in-person sessions, giving you flexibility in how you begin your therapeutic journey.