5 Common Myths About Therapy
What if what you thought about therapy isn’t true? Read on to find out…
1. “Only crazy people go to therapy.” FALSE. There doesn’t need to be a severe diagnosis for someone to seek therapy. Therapy serves as a safe space for many and allows you to hear a different perspective. Most clients who seek therapy are dealing with the same things we all struggle with. Your therapist will ask the questions you wouldn’t think about and will help you think outside the box.
Therapy can help you process past traumas and help you cope with your daily stresses. Therapists can treat many different things like anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, stress, and more. Despite the negative stigma around mental health, a lot of clients seeking therapy are the ones you interact with on a daily basis.
2. “I don’t need therapy; I have my friend/partner.” It is so important to have a great support system! There’s nothing better than being able to call your best friend to vent after a hard day. The difference between your best friend and your therapist is the difference between the connection you’ll have. Since your support system is emotionally connected to you, their advice is geared towards what you may want to hear.
Your therapist will provide a different view of what you are going through and although the answer may be a difficult one, it may be the one you need to hear.
3. “Therapy is a quick fix.” Therapy varies for each person and there is no specific time frame. Sometimes therapy requires time to help uncover what may be causing issues. Other times, therapy can help resolve your issue in just a few sessions.
Remembering that sessions are typically 50-60 minutes (sometimes longer) and the first and second session your therapist is getting to know you and will take time learning about you. This part is so important and takes time. There are also specific therapy modalities that will help you process certain issues but be patient as therapy has its own speed.
4. “All therapists want to talk about is your history.” To an extent. Learning about your history helps your therapist ‘paint the picture.’ Things you have experienced in your past affect who you are today. Learning about your history helps your therapist understand who you really are and understand your thought process which results in being able to develop solutions that will help you best.
Together with your therapist you’ll be able to identify the main issues, establish your goals, and begin the healing journey through homework and readings to measure your progress.
5. “You have to stick with the first therapist you find.” Nope! Take advantage of free consultations when they’re offered and ask questions! Free consultations are an opportunity for you to make sure there is a connection, and you feel comfortable with whoever you choose. It is best to speak to about 2-3 therapists until you find someone who meets your needs.
Consider making a list of things you want to discuss to make sure your therapist will be able to help you as not every therapist is not right fit. If you find that you are not connecting with your therapist, it is okay to let them know and find a different therapist.
Ready to see what therapy is all about? Book your free 15-minute consultation!
