Therapy: Fact Versus Fiction
Breaking Down the Myths Holding Us Back from Healing
Although there is increasing acceptance and more open discussion in recent years regarding therapy, the idea of “talking to someone” has held a stigma for decades. And with that, there have been (and still are) a host of common misconceptions.
The following “fictions” are what keep people from taking the first step. They are what keep people from bettering themselves, their relationships, and their lives. They are what I’m here to talk through with you, because there should be no barriers to first starting your therapy journey!
Whether you’ve never booked a session or are a seasoned veteran, let’s go through some of the common fictions and accompanying facts when it comes to therapy.
Facts Versus Fiction Before Beginning Therapy
FICTION: You have to commit to therapy without knowing what your connection with your therapist will really be like.
FACT: Therapy is about connection, and it’s important to feel comfortable with the person you’re working with. That’s why I offer a free 30-minute video or phone call (almost a whole session!) to see if we’d be a good fit. It’s a chance for you to get a feel for how I show up, how our time together might look, and whether my style feels supportive for you.
FICTION: If I need therapy, it means I’m weak.
FACT: Seeking therapy is actually a sign of strength. It takes courage to ask for help and to look honestly at yourself and your experiences, and invite in a third-party to the equation. There is exceptional strength in vulnerability, and not one many people are willing to face. However, for those who do, therapy can continue building skills to make you even stronger.
FICTION: Therapy is a huge commitment (time-wise, financially, etc.).
FACT: Therapy is meant to help you by meeting you where you are. While I like to meet with clients weekly in the beginning stages of our relationship, I also take into consideration their time and budget. I understand that having an hour to talk to someone about your emotions can be a luxury that not everybody can afford. In such cases, our sessions may focus more on how to cope throughout longer gaps between sessions, so that clients can feel powerful and collaborative in their journey.
FICTION: My therapist will judge me.
FACT: Therapy is a judgment-free zone. In fact, therapy can be most rewarding when you bring your full self (including the messy, confused, and unpolished parts) to the session. I will hold space for ALL of who you are, and support you without criticism.
FICTION: Therapy isn’t for me.
FACT: Therapy never follows a one-size-fits-all approach. You don’t have to be in a mental health crisis, undergoing a huge lifestyle shift, have a diagnosis, or fit a certain “type” of person to benefit from therapy.
Facts Versus Fiction Once In Therapy
FICTION: Therapy involves immediately trying to find out what’s “wrong” with me.
FACT: Although questions during therapy may feel like digging, it’s actually more about listening—to what you’re saying, what you’re not, and what you need immediate coping strategies for. The “why” behind deeper experiences of grief, anxiety, stress, and more will be uncovered in time, while the initial stages of therapy are focused on setting the groundwork and gathering important foundational information.
FICTION: Therapy should “fix” me.
FACT: Therapy isn’t for fixing; it’s for understanding. I’m not here to fix you, and therapy isn’t only for those who feel they “need to be fixed.” I’m here to help you better understand yourself so you can take care of yourself the way you need or want to. I don’t have a superpower that you are missing; rather, I help unlock the superpowers within you to be your best self.
FICTION: Therapy will take too long to see meaningful results.
FACT: While therapy is indeed a process with ups and downs, progress and setbacks, and moments of clarity and confusion, it is very possible you’ll see shifts early on. The path will look different for each and every individual, but every step matters in your overall journey. I tend to work with clients long-term; while short-term, coping-focused therapy is important, I believe that longer-term, introspective, mindset-shifting relational therapy can be very healing.
FICTION: A therapist will tell me exactly what to do.
FACT: My role isn’t to give you a list of instructions or to live your life for you. Instead, I help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns so you can make choices that align with your values, learn better coping mechanisms, and figure out how to improve your overall wellness. You are the expert in your life; therapy simply offers support, guidance, and perspective along the way.
Next Steps
The scariest part of therapy can be the decision to take the first step. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of it all, don’t worry—you’re not alone and I’m here to help.
What are your biggest misconceptions about therapy? I’d love to talk through them with you and calm any fears you may be bringing to your first session.
Schedule a consultation today to explore how we can get you to where you want to be.
