12 Common Myths About Therapy: Reality and Clarity

Have you been contemplating about getting therapized but not able to make the move? Are concerns about getting judged, cost, time, or the uncertainty of the therapy process keeping you from taking that crucial step? You're not alone in this experience. Many people want to pursue therapy and counseling for their life’s issues, have doubts about the process and are unable to get clarity from anywhere.

So, in today’s blog, I have tried addressing the misconceptions that I commonly hear about the process of therapy and counseling. I have also dispelled what is true and what is just an unrealistic belief.

In the following sections, I have mentioned the misconceptions and the reality about therapy you deserve to know. My aim with this is to provide you, the seeker, with the insights and understanding you need to make an empowered choice. So, let's embark on this enlightening journey and unravel the truths that will guide you toward the support and well-being you're seeking.

Below-given are 12 myths or misconceptions that I commonly hear about the process of therapy and my take on them –

1. Myth: Therapy is only for severe mental health issues; everyday struggles aren’t valid reasons to seek help.

Reality: Therapy isn't solely for crises. It's a tool for anyone grappling with life's challenges, big or small. Coping with everyday stress, work dilemmas, or relationship concerns are all valid reasons to seek professional guidance.

2. Myth: Seeking help for everyday struggles is a sign of a lack of wisdom/strength or keeping one’s own life together.

Reality: Imagine as an adult, if you accidentally trip on the road or fall down stairs, do you question your maturity because of it? Or do you try to get up or seek someone's support? Just as you appreciate help to stand up physically, therapy offers support to you to stand up emotionally.

3. Myth: Therapy is a costly affair.

Reality: While therapy involves a cost, it's an investment in your well-being. Many therapists provide flexible payment options, making them accessible across various budgets. Discuss this with your therapist; feasible solutions might be offered.

4. Myth: Therapy is only successful the way it’s shown in the movies i.e.face-to-face.

Reality: Technology has expanded therapy options. Online or phone sessions are effective alternatives to face-to-face meetings. The key is finding the approach that resonates with you. Moreover, not all concerns require in-person presence in the therapist's office. Touch as a form of healing is limited to certain practitioners and not necessary in professional therapeutic techniques.

5. Myth: Therapists offer solutions. Hence one or two sessions are sufficient.

Reality: Therapy isn't about quick fixes. It's a process of exploration and growth. Therapists guide you to discover your own solutions, which often takes several sessions. From understanding your past to root-cause analysis, setting goals, resolving underlying issues, providing coping strategies, and facilitating your sustainability – it is a comprehensive journey. Duration varies from a few sessions to several months, depending on your area of concern.

6. Myth: “What if someone gets to know that I am seeking therapy? What will they think about me?”

Reality: Your choice to seek therapy is personal. Sharing it is up to you. Ethical practices prevent therapists from disclosing personal information or identity, even to family members or acquaintances of the therapy seeker.

7. Myth: “Only I know what’s right or wrong for me. Nobody else can help me.”

Reality: While you're the expert on your life, therapists bring a fresh perspective. These insights might not occur to you amidst emotional turmoil. Therapists offer guidance and tools to help you make informed decisions. They uncover your misconceptions, distorted beliefs, and unproductive thoughts.

8. Myth: A therapist can only motivate you to do things that you aren’t doing. All such information is already available on the Internet.

Reality: Therapy goes beyond motivation. It delves into underlying issues, resolves them, provides coping strategies, and tailors advice to your unique situation. Internet resources are raw materials, comparable to ingredients for a dish. A therapist helps you understand the raw material your unique circumstances require, when and how to utilize them, and how best to sustain yourself with the chosen 'diet' you've crafted.

9. Myth: “If it is just talks then it should end in a handful of sessions and should work for the entire life.”

Reality: Emotional growth takes time. Just like physical fitness, consistent effort is essential. Therapy equips you with tools; using them over time is key. If you stop taking care of your emotional state, no one can help you sustain well-being for life.

10. Myth: My personal details could be misused/misunderstood by a therapist.

Reality: Ethical therapists prioritize confidentiality. Your personal information is always protected. A typical therapist hears a wide range of personal issues - from fetishes and unhealthy habits to troubled relationships and financial concerns. So, nothing is new or unique to a therapist. However, you should still discuss any concerns you have with your therapist.

11. Myth: “I’ll be judged for my choices.”

Reality: Therapists offer a safe haven. Their role is to support, not judge. Your choices are met with understanding and empathy. Like, when you visit a doctor, they don't judge you for falling ill in the rain or indulging in sweets despite health advice. They provide medication and coping strategies to help you recover.

12. Myth: “What new can a therapist say that I already don’t know or can’t find by myself?”

Reality: Therapists provide a fresh perspective. They help you uncover insights and offer tailored strategies that align with your growth journey. They offer an objective third-person perspective which is hard to achieve on your own. Being both the doctor and the patient is challenging. Hence a therapist’s fresh, unbiased, and non-judgemental perspective helps to a great extent.

In a world where myths can obscure the path to well-being, it's crucial to remember that seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to your strength and commitment to personal growth.

If you're among those contemplating therapy, I encourage you to take a step toward reclaiming your mental health. The door to healing is open, waiting for you to walk through. Don't let doubts hold you back any longer. Whether it's a lingering question or a desire to explore further, reaching out to a therapist can provide the answers and reassurance you seek, sitting back and just contemplating won’t. Booking a session, sending a message, or making a call could be the first step in the direction of lasting positive change. My coordinates are given right below for you to take the necessary step.

Remember, the power to transform your life lies within your grasp. Embrace reality, seek clarity, and take the leap toward a brighter, healthier future. Your journey toward well-being starts today.

My coordinates are –

Komel Chadha

Psychotherapist

Whatsapp @ 9811941192

Book a first free call @ https://www.komelchadha.com/book-online

Speak to me @ 9811941192 (Available on all weekends and weekdays. If call not picked up, you will be called back)