Myths and misconceptions about therapy

Therapy is a valuable resource that can help individuals navigate challenging emotions, improve their mental well-being, and enhance their overall quality of life. Unfortunately, there are several common myths and misconceptions surrounding therapy that can deter individuals from seeking the help they need. If you’re considering therapy but are unsure about what really happens in a therapy session, continue reading to learn what to expect — and what not to expect — during therapy.

Is therapy only for “crazy” people?

This myth perpetuates a harmful stigma about mental health. Therapy is indeed a valuable tool for people in crisis. However, anyone — regardless of their mental health status — can benefit from building resilience, self-awareness, and positive relationships. Challenging this common misconception helps remove the stigma around mental health and encourages more people to prioritize their well-being through therapy.

Is therapy a quick fix for mental health?

Therapy is an effective solution to many mental health problems. However, progress in therapy requires time, effort, and teamwork. Building a strong bond with your therapist can take a few sessions, in some cases more, and learning healthy ways to cope and deal with deep-rooted problems can’t be rushed.

Therapists work with clients to create personalized treatments, monitor progress, and make lasting changes by developing skills and insights that go beyond the therapy sessions. By understanding that therapy is a journey, you can set realistic expectations and commit to the process of personal growth and change.

Will my therapist just tell me what to do?

Therapists typically don’t give advice or instructions. Instead, therapists work together with clients to set objectives, address challenges, and find resolutions. You, the client, retain control over decisions that align with your values and aspirations while therapists provide guidance and encouragement.

Clinicians use evidence-based methods to steer this interactive process and help keep you accountable. In this way, you can work toward solutions that fit your life and your goals.

Is therapy unaffordable?

If you have health insurance, therapy with an in-network provider can cost as little as $0 to $30 per session. Your insurance company may also reimburse part of your out-of-pocket cost if you see an out-of-network therapist. Both Medicare and Medicaid cover therapy, and you can use an FSA or HSA to help offset the cost of therapy.

Without insurance, one therapy session in the US costs an average of $100-$200, but can be as high as $300. For individuals without health insurance, exploring therapists who offer sliding-scale fees and provide lower-cost therapy based on income is worthwhile. Learn more about paying for therapy.

Is talking to friends or family the same as therapy?

While the support of family and friends is important, professional therapy provides unique advantages that surpass personal relationships. Most people find that they can discuss things in therapy that would be too difficult to bring up with a friend or family member.

A therapist is a neutral third party with whom you can speak freely without worrying about judgment or what you say being shared with others. A good therapist offers a confidential, and non-judgemental space supported by specialized training and evidence-based techniques that even our most insightful loved ones don’t have.

Do therapists just blame your parents or upbringing?

Therapists do not attribute everything to your parents or upbringing. While understanding past experiences can be important, therapy focuses on empowering you to make positive changes in your present life. Good therapists work with you to explore various factors contributing to your current challenges and help you develop effective problem-solving strategies for moving forward.

The goal is to support your growth and well-being, rather than assigning blame to specific individuals or circumstances.

Is therapy just a lot of talking?

Therapy does involve a lot of talking, but it’s much more than one person monologuing and the other taking notes. Therapy is a collaborative process that uses a variety of evidence-based techniques.

While some people may benefit from sharing and exploring in the safe space their therapist provides, therapy can also include extensive back-and-forth, skills building, learning about coping mechanisms, and things to practice outside the therapy room. Often, people discover a new perspective in therapy that leads to a shift in how they feel. A good therapist will adapt their approach and style to what works best for you.

Do I have to go to therapy forever?

A therapist’s job is to help you resolve or work through whatever brought you to therapy in the first place — not to keep you in therapy sessions forever. How long you stay in therapy depends on your individual needs and goals.

For some, short-term therapy is enough to address issues or develop coping skills, while others may benefit from longer-term support. The decision to continue therapy is based on your progress and ongoing needs, and therapists work together with clients to analyze this. Therapy is ultimately a personal choice, and you have the autonomy to decide when it’s the right time to conclude your sessions.

Shouldn’t people be able to handle things on their own?

The myth that people should be able to fix things on their own overlooks the complexity of mental health struggles. We look to doctors to help with our physical health, so turning to a professional for our mental health should be no different.

The idea that mental health should be handled privately perpetuates a number of stigmas and cultural ideas that can prevent people from seeking the help they need: for example, the idea that it’s weak to talk about one’s feelings or seek help for mental health.

In reality, many people benefit from the opportunity to gain insight, tools, and support from a trained mental health professional. Seeking therapy, for many, is a brave step toward improving their mental health that can benefit not just the individual, but a person’s family and larger community as well.

Is social media a substitute for therapy?

The idea that social media is just as helpful as therapy is not true. Many well-intentioned people on social media produce content — some are licensed therapists, some are coaches, and many have lived experience but no official credentials.

Social media personalities may produce helpful content, the reality is that they’re speaking to a broad audience and are often focused on increasing their engagement and reach. There is also always a chance that someone is creating content that’s uninformed, incorrect, or even harmful.

Therapy is different because it provides a safe and private space with a licensed and trained professional that’s tailored to the individual, where you can explore your emotions and make positive changes.

Do therapists just want your money?

Therapists are trained professionals who genuinely want to help people improve their mental health and well-being. While it’s true that they are paid for their jobs just like anyone else, they invest time and effort in understanding your concerns, offering support, and providing effective strategies to help you overcome difficulties.

Therapists prioritize your progress and work collaboratively with you to ensure that you receive the help you need, demonstrating their dedication to your overall mental wellness rather than solely focusing on financial gain.