Why Therapy Works Despite Common Misconceptions

Therapy often sparks curiosity and doubt. Many people think that therapy doesn’t work because of personal experiences, societal stigma, or a lack of knowledge about what actually happens during sessions. Yet, therapy is a powerful tool that can lead to deep personal growth, healing, and transformation. This blog post will shed light on why some might believe therapy doesn’t work, present evidence supporting its effectiveness, and guide you on how to start your own therapeutic journey.

Common Misconceptions About Therapy

1. Therapy is Only for "Crazy" People

A common myth is that only those with severe mental health issues seek therapy. In reality, therapy is valuable for anyone facing challenges, whether they relate to stress, relationships, or personal development. For example, studies show that 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness in a given year, but many will benefit from therapy even if they don’t have a diagnosed condition.

Therapy can also be preventive, helping individuals maintain their mental well-being during tough times.

2. Therapy is a Quick Fix

Some believe therapy should offer immediate solutions. However, many therapeutic journeys take time and commitment. For instance, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) typically requires a commitment of 12 to 20 sessions for significant improvements. Understanding that therapy is a process of skill and insight development encourages patience and resilience.

The primary challenge with therapy is that clients often don't have enough awareness about their issue in order to know what can solve it. The first phase of therapy is building client awareness. This is essential for helping clients understand why specific interventions are suggested. Think of this as going to the doctor and saying "I have a runny nose." You also tell the doctor you think you have a cold and the doctor tells you it's allergies, or the flu, or a virus. Your assessment of the problem is partly correct, but since you're not trained in assessment you miss information that shows something different to an expert. The same concept applies to therapy.

3. Therapists Just Listen and Don’t Offer Real Help

As a teen I had my first experience with therapy. When it was done I concluded that it hadn't done anything. Nevermind that I went from being overwhelmed by emotion to feeling happier in about 7 months. I attributed that solely to anti-depressants. I was motivated to become a therapist because I thought, "I can do this better."

Some think that therapists only provide a listening ear. That's probably because listening is a significant part of effective therapy. Asking clients reflective questions and showing empathy are my primary tools.If clients don't feel like their therapist listens and understands they won't accept what the therapist is suggesting. Part of therapy is helping clients understand how that the therapist views their problem differently than they do. This can be done by suggesting an idea and letting a client think about it.

Effective therapy involves active engagement and personalized strategies. For instance, therapists might employ cognitive-behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other methods tailored to individual needs and goals.

4. Therapy is Too Expensive

While cost can be a barrier, many therapists offer sliding scale fees, and local community resources often provide affordable options. Our interns are able to offer the most flexibility in fee price. We recognize that not everyone has benefits or the means to pay for therapy and may need flexibility to get the support they need. Investing in therapy often leads to increased productivity and improved mental health, which can have far-reaching savings in other areas of life.

How Therapy Actually Helps

1. Evidence-Based Practices

Research consistently supports therapy's effectiveness in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Therapists are trained to use these evidence-based methods to help clients gain a better understanding of their behaviors and develop pathways to meaningful change.

2. A Safe Space for Exploration

Therapy provides a safe, confidential environment for clients to express their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This kind of openness fosters therapeutic growth. Think about the people you feel most comfortable talking to. What do they do to show they understand and care?

3. Skill Development

Therapy goes beyond conversation; it includes teaching practical skills. Therapists might help clients learn to manage stress through breathing techniques or enhance communication by practicing active listening in role-play scenarios. These skills are essential for handling day-to-day challenges, ultimately making individuals more resilient.

4. Enhanced Self-Awareness

Through therapy, clients often develop a deeper understanding of their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. This heightened self-understanding can lead to personal growth and better decision-making. When people have a better understanding of why they think or feel the way they do it's easier to think of ways to resolve unwanted thoughts and emotions.

The Journey to Therapy: How to Get Started

1. Recognize the Need for Help

The first step in your therapy journey is acknowledging that you might need support. Signs like feeling overwhelmed, persistent sadness, or struggling with relationships can indicate it is time to seek help. Any persistent unwanted feeling, thought, or issue can be a sign of a need for support.

2. Research Your Options

Once you decide to pursue therapy, research the various types and therapists available. Consider what you want to achieve—be it managing anxiety or improving relationships—and look for specialists in those areas. For example, finding a therapist who focuses on anxiety can significantly enhance your therapeutic experience. If you're not entirely sure what you need to can be helpful to have at least 3 consult calls to better understand how different therapists would approach supporting you.

3. Schedule a Consultation

Many therapists offer initial consultations. This meeting helps you determine if they are the right fit. During the consultation, feel free to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and understand their therapeutic approach. A consult isn't focused on sharing about you. It should focus on what the therapist does and how they can help.

A welcoming therapy room designed for comfort and openness

4. Commit to the Process

Therapy requires commitment. Approach it with openness and be ready to engage in the process. Remember that the progress can take time, which is completely normal. It can also help to discuss with the therapist your reason for ending therapy. Some clients feel they've improved enough to stop therapy half way through the skill building phase. The therapist may see more areas of support than what you think you need.

If you disagree with your therapist it can be helpful to discuss why you disagree and seek to understand their perspective.

5. Evaluate Your Progress

As you continue therapy, take time to reflect on your growth. Are you noticing changes in your thoughts, feelings, or behaviors? Regular evaluations can keep you motivated and engaged in your journey.

It's also helpful to discuss goals early in the therapy process in order to keep it focused on the benefit you are looking for.

Embracing the Therapy Journey

Therapy is an invaluable resource for anyone seeking personal growth and healing. By recognizing the truths about therapy and its benefits, you can overcome hesitations and take the first steps towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

If you’re ready to discover how therapy can help you, consider booking a consultation today. Start your transformative journey toward healing and self-discovery. Therapy works and could be the key to unlocking your potential. Don’t let misconceptions hold you back—take that first step now and find the right therapist for you!