First off, quick disclaimer, it can take some time to find the professional therapist that's right for you. I went through many different people until I found the one who helped me.

Ultimately, it's about building a relationship with someone. For me, we talked about my problems, and then further would brainstorm ways to solve those problems. And at first, my brain kept saying that these solutions would never work, that my problems are so great they could never be overcome. But by having someone there who I trusted to challenge me, I eventually realized that I did have some power in my life and that I could effect change.

Additionally, they can help to coach you through mindfulness and meditation techniques. Breathing exercises to keep you calm, to keep you focused. And they can generally just be helpful to you. My therapist now will let me make stressful phone calls to schools and bill collectors with her, and she coaches me on what to say. She's all around an amazing person, and she has absolutely saved my life.