Until some years ago, therapy was really taboo. Luckily the new generations understand health as a combination of physical and mental health. Of course, psychotherapy is not for everyone but, before you say no, find out what therapy is about. Myths about therapy are quite common and difficult to break.

Here are the most frequent myths I see

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

No. Those are usually referred to and do not come because they do not want to come. Yes, mentally ill people gain from therapy as a complement to treatment with medication. According to my experience, people seek psychotherapy to handle a wide variety of issues, starting from life transitions to depression.

Myth #2. Weak people need to see a therapist.

Seeking therapy is an intelligent and brave behavior. When you are facing some difficulty, it is healthy to hire someone. If you feel stuck, getting help is beneficial. Reaching out for resources to get out of that spot is also beneficial. To face your fears and deal with your conflicts requires courage.

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. A family member or friend can allow you to vent. The difference is that psychologists are highly trained. They specialize in human behavior. They analyze the way you are thinking. They understand why you are reacting in certain ways. Psychologists study your process. They are not part of the problem, so they have the “needed distance.” This allows them to help uniquely. A Psychologist is there to listen actively. They listen without judging. They help you understand what you are going through. And gives and or helps you, find tools to get out of that loop.

Myth # 4. Therapy is too expensive.

Yes and no. No, because insurances cover psychotherapy. There are resources to help you get therapy. Search in your community. Yes, psychotherapy can be expensive. There are psychologists, the more experienced ones that, like in any other profession, will charge higher rates. If you consider psychotherapy as an investment, it makes sense to pay for it. It helps you work on areas of your life that are interrupting you. These areas might be hurting you and not allowing you to give your full potential. It is an investment.

Myth # 5 Experienced the same.

As a psychologist, I am lucky to say this is completely 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 refer you to someone else. They will do this if they consider they are unable to address your concerns.

Myth # 6 Therapy has no deadline.

Well, that is a hard one. I work on solution-oriented therapy and establish goals, and once reached, game over. New goals show up, so, we focus on them. My goal is to help people develop their own skills. I aim to build their strengths and help them trust their resilience. They will use my services and then go on by themselves. By equipping our clients with tools, the therapist’s idea is to help them manage changes. Clients need to handle emotions independently. Sessions are meant to make you independent.

Remember There are lies and myths about psychotherapy. Ask for referrals. Search carefully for the therapist and the therapy that you consider will fit your style. They are not all the same nor use the same techniques.

At Estrada Vigil & Medical Group, we have professionals available. They would be happy to collaborate with you in person. Virtual collaboration is also a choice. Check our website http://www.inesestradavigil.com To get connected with a counselor. Book a free 15-minute consultation call. You can talk about your needs. Alternatively, discuss any further questions with one of our groups. Get back on track.