Common Misconceptions About Seeking Therapy

March 9th, 2023

There was a lot of stigma surrounding topics like mental illness and addiction. Fortunately, nowadays, people are much more open about seeking the help they need. 

Here in Ogden and Salt Lake City, therapy can be used to treat many mental conditions, including anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. But, of course, you don’t have to have any of these specific conditions to seek therapy—anyone can meet with a therapist.

However, therapy can sometimes still get a bad rap. Some people might be too dependent on what they see on television or in fictional books, which causes a distorted view of what therapy is.

Even though a lot of information is available, it can be easy to fall for the misconceptions surrounding therapy.

Only “Crazy” People And Those With Big Problems Go To Therapy

First, “crazy” has many different connotations—sometimes, good ones. Secondly, it’s untrue.

If you are in a crisis, therapy can make a huge difference in your life. But you don’t need to suffer from a severe mental illness to get to therapy. Therapy clients often struggle with the same issues we all deal with daily: relationships, self-doubt and confidence, self-esteem, and work-life stress.

Therapy Is Like Talking To A Friend

It’s easy to see therapy as a conversation with a friend. Because with friends, you can share your feelings. And a good friend can be there for you during stress or emotional distress. 

However, therapy is very different from your relationships with family and friends. Your therapist is a trained professional who has learned the most effective evidence-based techniques to assist you in taking control of your mental health.

Also, your therapist will help you manage your emotions and challenge your negative thoughts, behaviors, and patterns. They will teach you how to build good relationships and avoid toxic ones. During your sessions, you’ll learn techniques to calm your emotions and stay grounded.

You Only Need One Session

Sometimes, movies make it seem like one session solves all the problems, but it doesn’t work in real life.

Here at Psychological Preventative Health, most of our sessions are scheduled for 55 minutes. And you can’t learn everything about someone in 55 minutes. Getting to the root of the problem will take many sessions.

Therapy Doesn’t Work

You might think therapy is a joke.

If you’re in a bad or dark place in your life, it can be difficult to imagine not feeling like this. However, therapy works and has made a huge difference in many lives.

Of course, it’s important to remember that therapy is a journey that’s unique to each individual. No two experiences will be the same. Therapy makes the most impact when you meet the right therapist who caters the best treatment for you.

Seek The Help You Need Today

If you want to take control of your life, schedule a session today!

With two convenient Utah locations—Salt Lake City and Ogden—Psychological Preventative Health is here for you. With our team of licensed SelectHeath professionals, you’re in good hands.