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10 Great Myths About Therapy

January 30, 2012 :: Couples, News, Relationships, The Brain

The history of psychotherapy really isn’t that old.  And when you look at it that way, it’s a little more understandable that there have been some mistakes along the way.  Becoming good at something takes time.  Unfortunately, these mistakes have created a perception and some silly myth’s about therapy.

Here’s a little clarity:

Myth #1 Going To Therapy Means I’m Broken

So many people judge themselves when they have problems.  Without judgment or a label, they are just problems - and it merely makes you human.  How you handle your problems is really what determines true character. 

Myth# 2 I Have To Be Touchy-Feely For Therapy To Work

This is definitely not true.  This will really depend on the type of therapist you choose and your willingness to be in therapy.  If you have a difficult time talking about emotions, start by picking a same sex therapist and visit a few web sites to find someone that matches your personality.

Myth #3   I Already Know What My Problems Are

I find that a lot of my clients are pretty aware of what their issues are.  That’s great, and yet, it’s what you are doing about them that makes the difference.  Therapy is to help you explore patterns that can either keep you stuck or moving forward.  New skills, approach or perception can make all the difference.

Myth #4 Therapists Are More Crazy Than Their Clients

Yeah, Yeah, Yeah…Funny. Truth is, we all have issues.  What I have found among the greatest therapists is that they own their issues and work on them.  I’m a bit more weary of therapists who pretend they’re impervious.

Myth #5 You Have To Change Who You Are For Therapy To Work

It’s true you’ll need to alter behaviors and patterns to create change in the dynamics, though no good therapist would ask you to change your person.  A good therapist would work with you to find creative solutions to help you work new skills into your world.

Myth #6 Therapy & Science Have Nothing To Do With Each Other

Not true!  The field of Psychology and Science are merging.  With empirical evidence showing us the true nature of brain maladies, therapy is becoming more and more legit.

Myth #7 If You Could Just Fix My Spouse I Would Be Fine

Fabulous denial.  No one, should “fix” another person or offer to.  Nor, should it be part of a relationship.  This is an unhealthy approach to some serious underlying issues.

Myth #8 I’m Going To Be So Embarrassed To Talk About Things

Everyone is - at first.  The good news is that your therapist has probably heard it all and even better - you’re not going to be judged for it.  The information (with the right therapist) will be used to strengthen who you are.

Myth #9 I Don’t Need to talk About My Parents To Fix My Problems

Well, not like Freud did it… I see many clients shy away from talking about their childhood.  Today, looking at your childhood is used more to just understand your family dynamics.  Where, did you learn how to be you?  No blame, just curiosity.

Myth #10 Therapists Just Find Problems

This is a phenomenon that often happens when clients wait too long to come to therapy.  Chalk full of issues, therapy begins to sort things out - and presto, the real issues bubble up.  It must seem like therapists are digging like archaeologists, and that just isn’t the case.  Good therapists are looking for helpful information.

There are so many fantastic therapists out there, I hope within the next few years we can start to shift public perception.