Myths About Therapy

Myths About Therapy

Statements Commonly Made About Therapy:

1 . "I don't need a therapist. I'm smart enough to solve my own problems."
We all have our blind spots. Intelligence has nothing to do with it. A good therapist doesn't tell you what to do or how to live your life. He or she will give you an experienced outside perspective and help you gain insight into yourself so you can make better choices.

2. "Therapy is for crazy people."
Therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand -- and want to learn ways to overcome obstacles and become more emotionally balanced.

3. "All therapists want to talk about is my parents."
Exploring family relationships can help understand the root of certain behaviors or patterns in your life, but this is not the sole focus of therapy. The goal of therapy is to make healthy changes in your life -- starting with self examination; talking about one's past, present and future, and focusing on new ways of coping and relating. It is important to understand that good therapy addresses both problems / symptoms AND the underlying issues in an effort to bring about lasting change.

4. "Therapy is self-indulgent. It's for whiners and complainers."
Therapy is hard work, and I believe that only the courageous are willing to deal directly with issues and problems in their lives with a skilled therapist. Improvement in therapy comes from taking a hard look at yourself and your life, and taking responsibility for your own actions. Your therapist will help you, but ultimately you're the one who must do the work.

From "Myths About Therapy" @ HelpGuide.org/Harvard U

 

Katonah, NY Psychotherapist
Laura A. O'Keefe, LCSW
Katonah, New York 10536
[email protected]

Laura Baldwin O'Keefe, LCSW