Ironically, although counseling has changed over the years, common myths persist. These false impressions are not only inaccurate; they can also dissuade folks from seeking helpful treatment. Sadly, this delay prolongs unnecessary suffering and pain.
Given that so many people report feeling increased levels of stress and anxiety, I want to call out these false impressions and correct them. So today, let’s review the top five most common misunderstandings that many have about psychotherapy/counseling and set the record straight.
1) Myth: You have to be crazy to see a counselor.
Probably the most harmful myth that keeps people from seeking therapy is the false idea that you have to be in a serious crisis to talk to a counselor. That kind of thinking makes as much sense as believing that you would only go to a doctor if you were having a heart attack.
Of course people seek psychological help when they are in crisis but people talk to therapists for all kinds of other reasons. Sometimes there are underlying issues that could benefit from ongoing therapy, but sometimes folks just need to vent about frustrations and be heard.
As with most problems, the earlier one gets help, the easier the solution. Myth of Needing Counseling | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY
2) Myth: Seeking counseling means you are weak.
Unlike in other cultures around the world, Americans are fiercely individualistic. They like to think that they can take care of themselves and don’t need help from others. Self-reliance can be good, but sometimes it is simply foolish.
In fact, rather than being weak, admitting to a problem and seeking help takes courage. It is much easier to deny and avoid a problem than it is to face one’s fears and address it. Anyone who has worried about and put off seeing a doctor for a persistent pain will tell you how hard it was to get the courage to actually make an appointment and get things checked out.
The same is true with emotional and relational problems. The fear of what might be wrong is usually much greater than the real issue. Indeed, most folks feel great relief after unloading their fears and talking to a counselor. Hearing that they are not alone and that their problem is common and normal can calm and reassure them. Why Seeing a Therapist Isn’t Weak—It’s the Strongest Step Forward
3) Myth: Counselors just tell you what to do
People seek counseling for different reasons, and there are different kinds of counseling. Most counseling uses a combination of non-directive and directive approaches. Few, if any, counselors simply tell their clients what to do.
Most counselors try to understand what their clients are going through and help them discover hidden truths about themselves and their situation. At other times, counselors fill in gaps with important, relevant information.
Being heard and learning crucial information help clients gain a rational perspective. Indeed, one way to understand the function of counseling is to see it as a process through which a client moves beyond the irrational distortions caused by prior trauma, sees themselves and their situation accurately, and approaches problems reasonably.
This insight comes through personal discovery, not through a counselor’s direction or admonition. A counselor can help you to get information and identify and define the problem. They also can help you sort out your options going forward, from which you can decide which one is best. To Be Directive or Non-Directive: That Is the Question | Psychology Today
4) Myth: Talking to a friend is the same as counseling.
Of course, talking with a trusted friend can be therapeutic, but it is not the same as counseling. Unlike a friend, therapy has a set structure, process, and professional boundaries.
Therapeutic conversations also come from a neutral point of view. S/he is not personally involved or part of your family or social group and can see things more objectively. Beyond objectivity, therapists have specialized training in psychology and counseling techniques.
As a result, counseling has a special time and place of safety and confidentiality. This setting allows one to relax and be vulnerable. Safety allows one to set aside emotional defenses and access emotions and pain that are normally blocked. Myth of Needing Counseling | Pastoral Counseling Syracuse NY
5) Myth: Counseling takes years and years.
While some clients choose to continue counseling for years, statistics consistently reveal that most counseling concludes successfully within 15 to 20 sessions. The reasons for extending therapy vary from person to person, but in most cases the initial problem has been resolved.
Sometimes, during treatment, new problems or levels of concern surface. When they do, a person may choose to keep exploring and learning. For others, the structure of regular sessions becomes part of an ongoing, open-ended support system. How Long Will It Take for Treatment to Work
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Hopefully this brief review clears up some misunderstandings and helps you think about counseling realistically. If you have a question, it’s no big deal to call a counselor and schedule an appointment.
Oh, one more thing. AI’s presence across platforms adds a new resource for people with questions about counseling. It can be of great help. I will explore its potential and limitations next time.
Rev. Michael Heath, LMHC, Fellow AAPC
