There can be a lot of confusion and mystery around the concept of therapy, and I understand why this might be the case. Since it's so private and confidential, you really only know what it’s like once you’ve been yourself. Otherwise, your view of therapy might come from tv shows or movies, which often fall short of capturing its true essence.
So, let's explore and clarify some of the most common misconceptions about therapy.
1. All therapy is the same.
Therapy is not a one size fits all! There are various therapy modalities available, each with its own unique approach. Some styles focus on working with your thoughts, while others work with your body, emotions, or spirituality. Some techniques will dive into your past, while others are focused on creating solutions for your future. Many therapists integrate different styles to cater to individual needs. If your previous therapy experience was unsatisfactory, there might be a more suitable option for you. It’s about finding what and who works for you!
2. Therapy is no different than talking to a friend.
While talking to friends is great, your therapist is specifically trained to provide specialized forms of support. Some of these skills that you may not experience outside of therapy include:
active listening
a confidential, safe, and nonjudgmental space
support with emotional processing
unbiased insights and perspectives
useful coping strategies
evidence-based interventions
3. Online therapy is not as good as in person therapy.
In both cases, therapists are trained and certified in their area of expertise, making them equally qualified to support you. Additionally, studies have continued to show that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy.
The advantages of each therapy format depend on the client's preferences. Virtual sessions offer convenience and flexibility in scheduling, allowing therapy during lunch breaks or after work without the need for commuting. They also can be more cost-effective, and can help overcome geographical barriers to accessing therapy. In-person therapy, on the other hand, provides more opportunities to connect through non-verbal cues, and for those who may live with roommates or in close quarters with others, it offers the privacy of a physical space outside of your house.
4. My therapist will "fix" me, or offer me a "quick fix" for my problems.
Therapy is not about “fixing”, because you are not “broken”! You are someone who deserves support in moving through the hardships and challenges that you are facing. Additionally, therapy is not a "quick fix". Rather, it is a journey that requires time, patience, and curiosity to connect with the wholeness of who you truly are.
A therapist will guide you in the ongoing process of:
identifying your goals for therapy
discovering patterns in your life that might not serve you
understanding where these patterns come from
compassionately moving through this work by offering coping strategies and implementing evidence-based practices
5. Therapy is never ending.
The experience of therapy varies from person to person. There is no set timeline for each client. Rather, clients can set goals and assess when they are ready to terminate their therapeutic journey. This can even be an ongoing conversation between the therapist and client! Some individuals may attend a few sessions to meet one specific goal, while others may attend ongoing therapy over their lifetime to have continued access to support and maintenance of their mental health. It is always the client's choice!
I hope this has been helpful in providing some clarity around the common misconceptions of therapy. If this leads to any questions, insights, or a desire to get started on your therapeutic journey, please feel free to contact me, and I would be happy to offer you support!
With warmth,
Alessia Manzoli
Registered Psychotherapist
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