3 Misconceptions About Therapy that Need to Be Debunked
Therapy is often misunderstood, with many misconceptions clouding its true value and purpose. This article, drawing on insights from experts in the field, aims to debunk common myths surrounding therapeutic practices. By addressing these misconceptions, readers will gain a clearer understanding of how therapy can be a powerful tool for personal growth and well-being.
- Seeking Therapy Shows Strength, Not Weakness
- Therapy Requires Active Participation
- Therapy Benefits All, Not Just Crisis Cases
Seeking Therapy Shows Strength, Not Weakness
The biggest misconception I'd like to debunk is that seeing a psychologist means there's something wrong with you. People think it's a sign of weakness. In my field, we see this stigma every day. The truth is, it's the exact opposite.
The reality is that seeing a psychologist is a sign of immense strength. It's a proactive step toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. A psychologist isn't there to "fix" you. They're there to give you a set of tools to help you navigate your own life. It's a safe space for you to be honest about your struggles and to find a new way to see the world.
It surprised me how much I learned about myself. I went in to work on a specific problem, and I came out with a deeper understanding of my own patterns and my purpose. It changed the way I show up for my team and my clients. It taught me that the most powerful thing you can do as a leader is to be a person of integrity, and that starts with a commitment to your own well-being.
My advice is simple: the most powerful thing you can do is to be vulnerable and to show people that it's okay to not have all the answers. The most resilient people are the ones who are willing to ask for help.
Therapy Requires Active Participation
One of the biggest misconceptions about therapy is that the therapist is the one who fixes you. Therapy isn't something that happens to you; it's something you actively participate in. What happens in the session isn't where most of the change happens. If you want to change, you need to be willing to show up, get uncomfortable, and do the work in between sessions. Your therapist can only help you as much as you are willing to work to help yourself.
Therapy Benefits All, Not Just Crisis Cases
Hello, my name is Dr. Carolina Esteves, Psy.D. I am a Psychologist at Soba of New Jersey. We would like to contribute to your article! Here are the links to our website, staff page and my LinkedIn.
https://www.sobanewjersey.com/
https://www.sobanewjersey.com/our-team/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolina-estevez-218062177
Here are our answers and responses to your query:
One of the biggest misconceptions about seeing a psychologist is that "therapy is only for people with severe mental illness." Many people think therapy is for those who have had a crisis or reached a crisis point, have a major diagnosis, or those who can't function in daily life. This belief often delays people from seeking help until they feel completely overwhelmed. In reality, therapy is useful for anyone navigating challenges, including new sources of stress, relationships, mental health-related struggles, or those who wish to better understand themselves. Psychologists provide an array of tools for coping, communication, and building healthier habits.
Many clients working with therapists appear to be "high functioning" on the outside, but deal with vicious internal cycles of exhaustion, self-criticism, or overwhelm. Therapy gives these clients a safe space to unpack their grievances and learn sustainable strategies to adjust. Therapy can be cathartic, preventative, and growth-oriented, not just reactive.
