Dispelling 4 Persistent Myths About Therapy
Dispelling 4 Persistent Myths About Therapy
Written by Lily Thrope
Many misconceptions and misunderstandings persist when it comes to seeking help from psychotherapy, including its purpose, its processes, and its candidates. These misconceptions tend to create obstacles for individuals who might potentially benefit from treatment, thereby preventing them from seeking help and support. It can require a lot of courage to pursue and seek out treatment, so it is helpful and informative to challenge these typical myths. See below for four common misconceptions about therapy and why they are misconceptions.
Myth #1: Therapy is only for people with severe mental health issues.
Many believe that therapy is only for those who have serious mental health crises or specifically diagnosed mental health conditions. Actually, therapy can benefit people with a wide range of issues, ranging from everyday stress to complex emotional struggles and trauma. People seek therapy to become stronger communicators, work on setting healthy boundaries, and developing a clearer understanding of themselves. Also remember, a mental health diagnosis does not define you as ‘defective’ or ‘less than’ anyone else.
Myth #2: Therapy is unnecessary if you have a friend or family member to whom you can talk with.
Being able to ‘vent’ to your loved ones is important and can be a great source of support. However, the role of a therapist is considerably more complex than listening to a friend talk about their issues. Therapists are trained individuals who are equipped with evidence-based strategies that help improve your life and hopefully help you grow and gain self-knowledge. Psychotherapists will engage in specific questions to better understand your background and history. Talking with friends or family often requires an expectation of reciprocity, whereas in therapy you focus on just yourself and hopefully without judgment.
Myth #3: Once I start therapy, I will have to do it for life.
Some worry that to see results, they must be in therapy forever. This is a deceptive misconception that prevents people from seeking treatment in the first place. The truth is, you do not have to stay in therapy forever, or not necessarily for a very long time. Many people see positive changes within their first couple of sessions. The amount of time you choose to devote to therapy is completely up to you and based on your own therapeutic goals. Many people stay for a few months, others for years. You have the freedom to discontinue therapy whenever you choose.
Myth #4: All therapists are the same.
Every psychotherapist brings his or her own set of tools, strategies and expertise into the therapeutic relationship and often applies a versatile range of modalities and techniques, based on years of training and required continuing education. The term 'therapist' includes people of all types of credentials. Therapists can come from many different backgrounds, whether they are social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, NPs, or licensed mental health counselors.
The first way to dispel the stigma around mental health is to have open and honest conversations about therapy, and challenge typical misconceptions. Eventually, your therapy will feel more comfortable.
If you have been thinking about therapy but are reluctant, for whatever reason, feel free to send us an email at hello@thropetherapy.com.
If you are interested in making an appointment to speak to a professional, schedule your 15-minute consultation. Thrope Therapy is offering in-person and virtual sessions today. We look forward to hearing from you!
