Going to therapy is NOT like talking to a friend. Myths and facts of therapy
- pboydbagby
- Jul 21
- 3 min read
Therapy: Examining Attitudes and Refuting Common Misconceptions
Once a taboo topic, therapy is now entering the mainstream. However, even in our increasingly open society, there are still a lot of myths and conflicting ideas surrounding mental health. Knowing what they are can help demystify the process and perhaps persuade more to get the help they need.
How Therapy is Often Perceived
The understanding of therapy can be very different depending on culture, history, and what people see depicted in the media. For some, it’s a willing rejection of the stereotypical British “keep calm and carry on” mentality, and a declaration that mental health is just as important as physical health. They see it as a place to grow as an individual, learn more about themselves, and find better coping skills. This positive change is often driven by greater advocacy, the endorsement of celebrities, and social pressure from more widely enlightened societies.
But for others, especially among people in places of the world that have long stigmatized mental well-being, therapy is still viewed as something to be skeptical of. It could be seen as something worthy only of those with “serious” issues or a sign of vulnerability. This estrangement is sometimes a powerful impediment to help-seeking at the same time that one needs help.
Common Misconceptions About Therapy
On the other side of general attitudes are numerous myths that continue to scare people away from therapy. Here are some of the most common myths and facts surrounding therapy today.
Myth: Only “crazy” or “weak” people need therapy.
Fact: This is the most insidious myth there is. Therapy is for anyone encountering life’s challenges or difficulties — stress, anxiety, loss of a loved one, and relationship difficulties, or for those desiring personal growth and self-understanding. Asking for help is not weak; asking for help is strong.
Myth: Going to therapy is like talking to a friend.
Reality: A good friend is supportive, but a therapist is a trained professional with clinical skills. They offer a neutral, private, non-biased space. Therapists apply these evidence-based approaches to work with you to identify patterns, challenge unhelpful thoughts, develop coping skills, and work toward specific goals. It is a process designed to bring about real change.
Myth: Going to therapy is an indicator that something is “wrong” with you.
Reality: Therapy is about making sense of your experience, not putting the label “broken” on you. It only makes sense that if you would see a doctor for a physical ailment, you would also see a therapist for mental and emotional health. That’s something that can help us take charge of our well-being and live a more fulfilling life.
Myth: Therapy is a quick fix.
Reality: Though it can be empowering, therapy is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, dedication, and patience. It is very subjective and can take any duration based on personalized requirements and objectives, but the insights gained are life-long tools
Myth: Therapists just give you advice.
Reality: A good therapist doesn’t advise or tell someone how to live their life. Rather, they help to instruct you on how to find your own answers, power, and solutions. They support you in making decisions that reflect your values and aims.
Myth: Therapy is too costly or you can’t get to it.
Reality: Although cost is often a barrier, there are frequently more affordable options than individuals realize, such as sliding scale fees, community mental health centers, university training clinics, and therapists who are in-network with an individual’s insurance company. Telehealth has also vastly extended availability, making it possible for people to meet with therapists from their own living rooms.
Conclusion
The mental health landscape is changing, and so is the discussion around therapy. By taking down these misconceptions and creating realistic awareness of what therapy actually is, our society can continue to destigmatize treatment, resulting in more people feeling encouraged to seek out the support they deserve. Therapy is an amazing resource for self-discovery, strength, and finding a life that is meaningful to you.
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