Only the “weak,” “sick”, or “crazy” are in therapy. False!
The misconceptions about therapy are endless, often propagated by those who are afraid or unwilling to give therapy a chance. Below are six common misconceptions that I’ve been asked about lately, presenting as barriers to therapy.
Therapy is Easy
False! It is hard work, exhausting, and requires perseverance. This is why therapy is so rewarding! Some sessions are easier than others, and when they are hard, it doesn’t mean you are bad. If therapy was easy, wouldn’t everyone be doing it?!
Therapy is a "Quick-Fix"
False! Progress is gradual. Think of it as a marathon, not a sprint. Manage your expectations and allow yourself the space and grace for ah-ha moments as they come. Beginning therapy with a timeline is not setting yourself up for success. The therapy rollercoaster is an attraction we seek for the long-haul; when you’re nearing the end, you’ll know.
Therapy Isn't a Priority
False! The mind is part of the body; why is health and rehabilitation a priority when it is for the body, and not the mind. The mental health stigma is an obstacle. This stigma is perpetuated by an inaccessible mental health system that is inadequately regulated by insurance companies who do not understand mental health care and the patient-therapist relationship. This is one reason why many therapists do not take insurance, because attending an arbitrary amount of therapy sessions prescribed by an insurance company to “get fixed” is an undeliverable promise.
You'll Leave Every Session Feeling Better
False! This happens sometimes, and when it does, insert all positive emotions. When this doesn’t happen, there is often a lot to think about or pieces to put together or Pandora’s Box to unpack. If you do not leave every session feeling better, therapy is still working. In fact, therapy works the hardest between sessions.
Therapy is Just a Paid Friend
False! I mean, this makes sense why many people are hesitant to begin therapy, but this does not make sense as to why people continue to come to therapy. “Therapy is just a pricey venting session.” “Why should I pay for what I can get for free from my family and friends?” If you still feel this way after you begin therapy, perhaps it’s time to reevaluate your relationship with your therapist. A friendship is two-way; therapist-patient relationships are mostly one-way.
Therapy Always Blames My Mother/Father
False! We uncover and process early, primary relationships because they often set the blueprint upon which we build future relationships. Understanding why we do what we do, see things the way we do, and think and behave the way we do is step one in self-awareness. Step one might come from our parents, but you’ve come to therapy to work through the blame, resentment, and stuck points. Therapy is the method in which we can accept ourselves (and others) as we (they) are, and live more desirable and satisfying lives.
The Big Question
Why sign-up for something that is hard, slow, and can sometimes leave you feeling awful? Because it’s worth it. Trust the process. Learning about yourself, challenging your firm beliefs, and building a support network that is affirming requires a non-judgmental, trained expert in psychology (psychologist) alongside a trained expert in yourself (patient).
For individual, couple/relationship, and group therapy inquiries, please reach out.
