Six Common Myths About Therapy

Therapy, the language of therapy and concepts have moved from whispered secrets to everyday conversation.

According to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), the number of people accessing therapy has steadily increased, with nearly one in five UK adults reporting they’ve worked with a counsellor or therapist.

So if you think you’re on your own – think again!

Despite our progress outdated ideas and myths prevent many people from seeking the support they deserve.

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Is counselling worth it?” this blog is for you.

Here are six common psychotherapy and counselling misconceptions — and the truth behind them.

1. “People in therapy have serious mental health issues.”

One of the most widespread therapy myths is that the only people seeking therapy are in crisis, or have a diagnosed mental health condition. With one in five being in therapy – that simply can’t be the truth.

Given that most of your decisions and behaviour are driven by how you feel and your emotions rather than your physicality or thinking – therapy makes sense. In reality, therapy is for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, navigate life transitions, improve relationships, or grow emotionally.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed at work, surviving medical treatments, going through a life or work change, going through a breakup, supporting others, or simply seeking greater self-awareness, therapy offers a space to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgement.

2. “You’re weak if you go to therapy.”

This is a particularly harmful stereotype, and it couldn’t be further from the truth. The truth is that it takes inner strength to acknowledge when you need help. Taking proactive steps toward therapy takes courage.

Therapy is a powerful act of self-respect.

Crucially, research shows that the single most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic relationship — the connection between therapist and client. This alliance creates a safe, trusting space where real progress can be made. So if you have had therapy in the past and it hasn’t worked consider looking for a therapist who trained in a different modality. Most therapists offer a free initial consultation – call three different therapists and note down how you felt in the call – do you feel you can share your deep thoughts with this person – eventually? If not – move on until you find someone do click with.

3. “You only go to therapy if you don’t have friends, a partner and/or family”

Some people say, “Why go to therapy if I can just talk to friends or family?”. While there is no doubt that these relationships are important for good mental health and loved ones are important, therapists are trained professionals.

Therapists provide objective, confidential support and proven strategies. Unlike these important groups of people they have no axe to grind with what you say, and they don’t have a vested interest in a particular outcome that you need to take.

While it is true that these groups of people are important – they can also form part of the challenges you are facing and they can sometimes be the challenge itself.

Therapy helps you work through what is yours, what is theirs and how you can shift the relationship dynamics to a different and hopefully better place.

4. “Therapy is just talking — it doesn’t actually solve anything.”

For those who believe therapy is just venting with no real outcome the truth is that effective therapy is based on evidence-backed techniques. Therapists help you identify patterns, develop new skills, and work through emotional blocks.

Therapy involves talking – alongside presence and silence – and that can lead to profound insight and lasting change. The therapist is deeply listening to you and with you connecting conversations, events and experiences over time. This leads to insightful interventions and realisations you would likely not make on your own.

Don’t underestimate the power of saying your words out loud, expressing yourself, to a trained professional who can witness them. The mere process of this is powerful in itself.

5. “I should be able to handle things on my own.”

This is something I often hear clients express at the beginning of therapy.

A belief that is deeply rooted in a western culture of independence.

However, just as we seek experts for physical health, finances, or education, it makes perfect sense to get professional help for your emotional and mental wellbeing.

You don’t have to wait until you’re at a breaking point. Therapy can be a proactive, preventative step that supports long-term resilience and growth.

If more people in relationships or couples came earlier more relationships would either end more amicably or people would grow together instead of apart.

6. “Therapy is too expensive and takes forever.”

Let’s not beat about the bush –  therapy is an investment – yet it doesn’t have to be a lifelong commitment. Many clients benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific goals.

Over time I have also found clients take a break and return later. Its part of the natural ebb and flow of our learning.

Therapists also tend to have sliding scale fees, concessions, or offer group therapy making therapy more accessible than ever. If you can’t afford these options most locations have access to low-cost therapy services where you can be seen by part qualified or trainee therapists who work for free.

Consider the cost of not addressing underlying issues — missed opportunities, strained relationships and burnout. How does the investment weigh up against these?

Therapy can be a valuable investment in your present and future wellbeing.

Counselling and therapy are worth it. Let go of the myths. Give yourself permission to seek support. You deserve it.

All therapists working at This Curious Life have real stories of demonstrated change to their clients life. What is yours going to be?

Interested in learning more or finding the right therapist for you? Visit our resources at thiscuriouslife.co.uk and take your first step.