6 Misconceptions about Counseling
Misconceptions about counseling create barriers
While more and more people are getting comfortable working with a therapist and/or counselor, there are still many misconceptions about the nature of counseling. These misconceptions can create barriers to people seeking help and create unrealistic expectations when they do.
The most common misconceptions about counseling have been created by what you see on TV and in movies. If you are hesitant to find a therapist near you, read through these myths about counseling to learn the truth.
6 Misconceptions & myths about Counseling
Myth 1: Counseling is only for the mentally ill. People who come to counseling may be experiencing many different symptoms, including emotional, behavioral, and/or physical. But it doesn't mean you have a serious mental illness. In fact, many people are coming to counseling to work on personal healing and/or growth.
Myth 2: Counseling requires taking medication. Taking medication for psychological reasons is a personal decision. Many people come to counseling because they want to explore alternative ways to manage emotions without taking medication. While others, utilize both medication and counseling.
Myth 3: Counseling will make things worse. Counseling should match your pace and shouldn’t push you to reveal or focus on things you and your internal system aren’t ready to heal. At the same time, sometimes growth involves tolerating some discomfort since you are stretching into new growth areas. If you ever feel like counseling is making things worse for you, definitely talk to your therapist to see if the approach or process needs to be adjusted.
Myth 4: Counseling is a place to get advice. While a counselor may offer his or her perspective, therapists usually don’t tell you what to do or not do. Instead, a counselor helps you get clarity, so you can make decisions and find solutions that are best for you.
Myth 5: Counseling takes a long time. Many people don't want to commit to counseling because they think it will take too long or be too expensive. You come to counseling as long as it is useful to you. Most therapists will periodically, check in about your progress toward your personal and therapy goals. So you will know when you no longer need counseling to support you.
Myth 6: Counseling is like talking to a friend. While you want to feel comfortable being open with your counselor, counseling is more than a place to vent about your problems. You can learn new tools and ways of connecting with yourself that helps you heal long-held beliefs and patterns.
I hope this helped you get clear on whether you want to give counseling a try. Since there are many different kinds of therapists and therapeutic approaches, ask the counselor you are considering working with if they offer a free initial phone call. That way you can get a feel for if you are a good fit before you begin your work together.
May you find the support that is the best for you.