Uncovering the biggest myths about therapy and counseling
Therapy has long been surrounded by misconceptions and stigma that have deterred people from seeking the help they need. We have come along way in the last few years in decreasing stigma but there are still a lot of myths out there. The midwest and Ohio areas are slowly coming around to knowing that going to therapy is strength and not a weakness. This handout from NAMI highlights why we need to have a strong mental health network in Ohio including in the greater cleveland area.
Below I will break down some of the biggest myths about therapy and uncover the truths behind them
1. Therapy is Only for “Crazy” People
One of the most biggest myths is that therapy is only for people with severe mental disorders. In reality, therapy is for anyone facing challenges or wanting to improve their mental well-being. I admit I’m biased but I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy as long as they are open to working on themselves and accepting help or suggestions from a therapist. Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk to, therapy can be beneficial.
2. Talking to Friends is Just as Good
Don't get me wrong, having a great support group can make a big difference in your mental and emotional well being but talking to friends and family doesn’t replace professional therapy. Therapists are trained to assess and diagnose mental health problems and provide unbiased, evidence-based interventions tailored to your specific needs (and specific concern). Therapists use specialized techniques that friends or family members might not be equipped with.
3. Therapy is Too Expensive
It can be. This can be a legitimate barrier for some. However, there are many affordable options available. Some therapists offer sliding-scale fees based on income, and some community organizations provide free or low-cost services. Additionally, insurance often covers some or all of the cost of mental health services.
4. Therapy Takes Forever
While some people benefit from and prefer long-term therapy, others may need only a few sessions to address specific issues. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or solution focused therapies, for example, can be short-term and goal-oriented. It all depends on your goals and your provider's treatment approach. While it’s hard for therapists to know exactly how long you will be seeing them for you can ask them to give you an general estimate or ask if they utilize short term therapy.
5. You Have to Lie on a Couch
The stereotypical image of a patient lying on a couch while the therapist takes notes is outdated. Possibly as outdated as Freud smoking a cigar while his patients free associated. Freud and cigars are long gone. And while free association is still practiced by some psychoanalytic therapists it is not the norm anymore. And hey we love a couch but more often these days therapy sessions are face-to-face conversations in a comfortable setting, couch optional. The goal is a collaborative partnership between you and your therapist.
6. Therapists Just Listen and Don’t Say Anything
A therapist not listening would be the definition of bad therapy. So while listening is an important part effective therapy involves active engagement. Therapists provide feedback, ask questions, and suggest techniques or exercises to help you work through your issues.
7. Therapy is Only for the Weak
Seeking therapy is a sign of strength not weakness. It shows you recognize areas that you want to work on, are proactive, and are willing to take steps to improve your life.
8. Therapists Will Judge Me
Therapists are trained to create a non-judgmental and empathic environment. Their goal is to understand, help, and not to judge. Confidentiality (privacy) is also a crucial component of the therapeutic relationship, ensuring that what you share stays private.
9. Therapy is a Quick Fix
Therapy is not a magic cure. Even short term therapy requires effort, time, and commitment. Progress might be slow and takes dedication, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the investment.
10. Once You Start Therapy, You’re in It for Life
This goes back to myth #4. Therapy is not a lifelong commitment unless you want it to be. Many people use therapy at different points in their lives, based on need. You can always stop therapy if you’ve met your goals and return if different issues arise later.
By challenging these myths, I hope to encourage more people to embrace therapy as a valuable tool for personal growth and mental well being. Don’t let misconceptions or stigma hold you back from seeking the help you deserve.