|
Many people would like to seek the help of a counselor, but are unsure of where to start. Listed below are some common myths that you may have heard:
1. It's too expensive!
Actually, studies have shown that people who invest in therapy for themselves or their children/families notice an increase in their income. Why? Because by going to therapy they are able to work through some of the blocks in their lives, thus increasing their productivity and/or ability to manage their finances better. Any good mental health therapist should be more than willing to work with you on your specific situation.
2. I don't have any time!
Is it worth it to you to be happy? Is it worth it to you to be free of the daily stress and anxiety that you may be experiencing? If you could carve 90 minutes out of your week to have some time just for you, to work on yourself or your relationship, thus experiencing hope and insight for your life, would you do it? It is a matter of priority. If your happiness and overall wellbeing is important to you, then finding 90 minutes every week to obtain that should be achievable.
3. I'll be in therapy forever!
Your time is valuable to you. We therapists know that. Think of it this way: if a therapist is doing a good job, then they know that they will soon be unemployed by you. Most therapists are able to provide effective, short-term therapy so that you do not have to spend years and years in therapy. That is simply a myth! You may feel better after a few sessions, or you may feel better after a few months. The duration of your therapy is not up to your therapist, it is up to you. And if your sessions are not going in the direction you want them to, speak up to your therapist! They will tailor their work with you to best fit your needs.
4. Therapy is only for crazy people!
Again, this is another myth that is slowly being debunked in our society. If it were up to me, EVERYONE would be in therapy. Talk therapy has been proven to be very successful in helping people with their depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and a whole host of other things. People seek out the help of a therapist if they need some gentle guidance during a transition in their life, for relationship support, and to seek clarity and piece of mind.
5. But, I can talk to my friends and family just as well!
This may be true, and our friends and family are a wonderful support to us. BUT, a friendship is a two-way street; it is shared 50-50. Your time with your therapist is 100% yours, and only yours. It is so comforting to be able to have a place that you can come to and talk about what is bothering you. The time is for YOU, and not for anyone else. You will not be interrupted by kids, employers, friends, etc. And, your therapist is an unbiased third party, so they will be able to provide feedback to you that your friends and family may not feel comfortable providing. Also, your therapist is bound by strict confidentiality laws, so no one else will know that you are in therapy, and why you are there.
|