Until recently, therapy was taboo. People would feel ashamed to say they would see a therapist. Fortunately, society has evolved, and the new generations understand health as a combination of physical and mental health. It is essential to know what therapy is about. Of course, psychotherapy is not for everyone, but before you say no, find out exactly what we are talking about.

Even though there is more awareness, these myths are common and difficult to break.

Frequent myths

Myth 1: Therapy is only for people with severe mental illness.

People seek psychotherapy to tackle a vast variety of issues, ranging from life transitions to depression. People seek therapy to help them cope with chronic illness or even as a preventative measure for themselves or others.

Myth 2: Weak people need to see a therapist.

Well, seeking help is a brave behavior. This assistance will help you find your resources to get out of that spot. It helps you to break this issue down into components. It is your own brain that is doing the work. You have a highly active role to play in that process. It implies courage to face your fears and deal with your conflicts.

Myth 3: I can have good talks with my friends or family.

It is great to have a significant support group, and of course, that helps. The only difference is that psychologists are highly trained specialists in human behavior, analyzing your thinking process. Psychologists study your process and are not part of it. They have the needed distance to help uniquely. A friend or a family member can allow you to vent. A Psychologist is there to listen actively, without judging, and help you understand what you are going through. A psychologist will ask questions about your background. They will inquire about the circumstances that have led to your situation. They will explore your journey of living. You will need to collaborate with your psychologist on your healing process.

4# Therapy is too expensive.

Yes and no. No, because insurances cover psychotherapy. Sometimes you must pay a small fee, which helps to lower the price. There are different resources in place to help you get therapy. Search in your community. Yes, psychotherapy can be expensive. There are psychologists, mainly the more experienced ones, who charge higher rates like any other professional. If you see psychotherapy as an investment, it makes sense to pay for it. It can help you work on areas of your life that are interrupting you. It can tackle what is hurting you. It also helps by not allowing you to give your full potential. It is an investment.

5# Experienced the same

I am lucky to say this is wrong. If I had suffered all the things my clients have been struggling with altogether, I would not be alive. Each one of us has their own backpack. Understanding someone does not mean I have to share the same diagnosis, nor have I suffered the same situation. An experienced and honest psychologist will not hesitate to refer you to someone else. This happens if they feel incapable of addressing your concerns.

6# The last myth: Therapy has no deadline for therapy.

Well, that is a hard one. I work on solution-oriented therapy, set goals, and once reached, game over. New goals show up, and then we focus on that. My goal is to help people develop their own skills. I aim to build their strengths and trust in their resilience. They will use my services and then go on by themselves. The idea as a therapist is to equip our clients with tools. These tools help them walk through changes and emotions on their own. Sessions are meant to make you independent.

Remember, there are lies and myths about psychotherapy. Do your research. Search carefully for the therapist and the therapy that will fit your style. They are not all the same, nor use the same techniques.

At Estrada Vigil & Medical Group, we have professionals who would be happy to work with you in person. They can also work with you virtually. Check our website http//www.inesestradavigil.com, get connected with a counselor. Send us an email,imevigil@igmail.com. Book a free 15-minute consultation call to talk about your needs with a licensed psychologist. We will be happy to help.