Let’s talk about Misconceptions Associated with Going to Therapy

Welcome!  Taking the steps to seek counseling can be difficult.  Counseling can be exciting and create hope and can be a little overwhelming. Let’s briefly get a snap shot at four misconceptions associated with Therapy.

4 Misconceptions Associated with Therapy

1. People who go to counseling must be crazy. “I am not Crazy”

You are correct in saying “You are not Crazy”. You are also not alone. It can be so hard to go to counseling.  Often people seek counseling for depression, anxiety, grief, loss, relationship difficulties, nightmares, sleep issues, work difficulties, family issues, parenting concerns, death of a loved one, academic issues, ADHD, PTSD, addiction or other life stage difficulties.  People often come to therapy to partner with the therapist to find alternatives and healthy ways to cope with life demands. This does not make you crazy.  Having a hard time does not make you crazy.

2.  My problem is not big enough for counseling.

People enter counseling at different times in their life for a variety of issues.  Some people want to learn more about themselves and personality while others have a crisis that brings them to therapy. Whatever the reason finding a therapist that fits your needs and treatment goals is possible.

3.   Once I go to therapy I will have to go forever.

Good therapy is not meant to last forever.  Therapy has an end date!  Good therapy has goals and while you may enter therapy not knowing your goals or desired result besides relief, a therapist can help you get clarity on your goals.

4.  I can’t take off work for a weekly appointment.

Therapy is an investment of your time.  Your time as a client is valuable!  There are therapists who work on Saturdays and after office hours.  Many times your insurance plan will cover the cost of therapy and many therapists hours can be flexible.  Check with your therapist and communicate your appointment time needs. Often if that therapist does not have availability they can refer you to someone who does.  Sometimes counseling is not every week and depending on your treatment needs you can talk with your counselor about your scheduling frequency.  Remember you as the client are part of your care and counseling is an important investment for you!