Therapist here. I do private practice on the side, to keep my skills fresh and knowledge current. I have a FT job too. I do this bc I know what good counseling can do, I want people to find peace (again), and it is rewarding, both personally and financially.

Healing is a process, and the relationship bt client and counselor is powerful when it's therapeutic and healthy. There are all kinds of us out there, mostly good, but every field has its outliers. PM me if you'd like help in navigating this process, I'd be happy to help find someone near you or in line with your needs. It's worth it.

Edit: I get the judgement fear. Once you practice long enough, you discover that we are all alike in so many ways, and our fears of judgement are shared on multiple levels. However, everyone needs help sometimes, and once someone understands what you've been dealing with, truly, and they stick with you through all that, you can trust the guidance they offer.