As a therapist, my first interaction with potential clients is usually spent clarifying their doubts and misconceptions. After they briefly express some difficulties they’re facing over an informal phone call, I’m asked a variety of questions: “Do I really need therapy or can I manage without it?”, “How long will I need to do therapy for?”, “What information do I need to share?” and numerous others like this.
I recognize that these questions stem from deep rooted stigma, common misconceptions and a lack of awareness and understanding of mental health, that prevails in society. I don’t blame my clients, but that’s what brings me to write this article.
Let’s bust the 8 most common myths about therapy.
“It’s really not that serious!”
The common notion is that you must be diagnosed with a psychological disorder or be deeply struggling in order to seek therapy. But the truth is that the average therapy client is trying to deal with many of the same concerns we all face: relationships, self-doubt, confidence, self-esteem, work-life stress, life transitions, body image, depression, and anxiety. These days, seeking therapy is viewed as a sign of greater self-awareness and resourcefulness.
Therapist: behind desk taking notes — You: lying on a couch
This is rarely the case. Trained therapists know that the distance between them and the client is critical for a safe and effective therapeutic alliance. A typical therapeutic arrangement is much like your living room where both parties sit in comfortable chairs without barriers between them. Good therapists often refrain from taking notes until after the session so they can be present and responsive towards their clients.
“Therapy is mostly just talk”
Though talking is an integral part of the therapeutic process, and the past can be a valuable resource for understanding present-day challenges, active participation is just as important. Together, your therapist and you will identify problems, set targets, and monitor progress, and will not merely indulge in a psychological dissection of personality and behaviour. If a new concern develops, adjusting the goals set out and navigating through the current challenge may be made priority. Discovering your strengths and learning how to use them to overcome challenges you are facing is an integral part of your therapeutic journey.
“My friends are supportive enough.”
Friends make fantastic sources of support for good mental health. They prevent us from feeling lonely, keep us laughing, and care about our wellbeing. Some of the wiser ones may even give us great advice! But even if you have great friends, you may still need therapy. A therapist provides an outsiders’ perspective to situations, which is unbiased and non-judgmental. They also help you work towards goals and can make valuable suggestions. Therapists are trained to recognize signs that your mental health is worsening, do not panic and know how to help. Also, you don’t need to worry about monopolizing the conversation or only talking about yourself, which otherwise, your friends may complain of!
“Just tell me what to do!”
A good therapist tailors sessions around your needs and does not have ready-made formulas to provide. Therapists listen to concerns, but also search for deeper themes and patterns to your thoughts and behaviour. By giving appropriate feedback and suggestions to these underlying patterns, they attempt to help you gain relevant insight and facilitate change.
“How long will this take?”
Television shows love to show their characters “fixed” in a session or two of therapy, but it doesn’t work that way in reality. The average session lasts 45 to 60 minutes, and continues for an average of 6 to 8 months. The first session is an intake session where building comfort and a good rapport with one another is prioritized. To address the root of the problem, many more sessions are required. On the flip side, therapy rarely lasts for many years at a stretch.
“I’m feeling restless after my last therapy session – it isn’t working!”
A therapist helps you discover, accept and overcome whatever is bothering you. This process may sometimes feel daunting and may leave you with some unanswered questions. Feelings are often stirred up during a therapy session. Of course, your therapist will address these concerns in future sessions, but some sessions may leave you feeling restless or overwhelmed. Sometimes things get worse before they get better, but skilled therapists know how to steer you, over time, into feeling more comfortable.
“I can’t afford therapy right now!”
Many therapists work on a sliding-fee scale, or can refer you to someone who does. The way we feel about ourselves and our lives and the quality of our relationships all contribute to our happiness. When these elements are out of balance, it can seriously compromise our physical, mental, and emotional states. Investing in your mental health over other superficial commodities may be a wiser choice in the long run. Think about how much money you could make if you reached your full potential and could set aside all the obstacles that are currently holding you back.
Busting these common myths also spreads awareness about mental health and therapy, which in turn can encourage people to seek help and lead a more satisfying life.
One of the most pervasive myths about therapy is that it’s exclusively for those with severe mental health issues or those on the brink of crisis. However, therapy can be a beneficial tool for anyone seeking personal growth, better stress management, or simply a space to explore their thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment. The truth is, that therapy is as diverse as the individuals it serves, offering a range of modalities tailored to various needs and goals. It’s a process of empowerment and self-discovery, and, most importantly, it’s for anyone at any point in their life. Shedding these common misconceptions can open the door to profound personal development and a more fulfilling life.