10 Common Misconceptions About Therapy (and Why They’re Holding You Back)
If you’ve been feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, you might have thought about getting professional help—but something is stopping you. Maybe you’re unsure about what therapy involves or worried about what others might think. You’re not alone in these hesitations.
The truth is, therapy can be a powerful tool for managing stress and anxiety, but many people let misconceptions keep them from taking that first step. Let’s clear up 10 common myths about therapy so you can feel more confident about prioritising your mental health.
1. “Therapy is only for people with serious mental health issues.”
What people think: Therapy is only for people with conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, or PTSD.
The truth: Therapy is for anyone facing challenges they want help navigating, whether that’s stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, or simply wanting to grow as a person.
2. “It’s a sign of weakness to need therapy.”
What people think: Asking for help means you can’t handle things on your own.
The truth: Seeking therapy shows strength and self-awareness. It takes courage to address your struggles and take steps toward healing.
3. “I should just be able to fix this myself.”
What people think: With enough willpower, you can push through stress or anxiety on your own.
The truth: While self-help is valuable, therapy offers tools and insights you might not find on your own. It’s okay to seek guidance—it doesn’t mean you’ve failed.
4. “Therapists will judge me or think I’m broken.”
What people think: A therapist will criticize you or focus on what’s wrong with you.
The truth: Therapists provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your challenges and strengths. Their goal is to support and empower you, not tear you down.
5. “Therapy is just paying someone to listen to me talk.”
What people think: Therapy is no different from venting to a friend.
The truth: While therapists do listen, they also offer professional tools, strategies, and techniques tailored to your specific needs. Therapy is about long-term solutions, not just venting.
6. “Therapy takes forever to work.”
What people think: You’ll need to commit to years of therapy before seeing any results.
The truth: Many people notice improvements in just a few sessions. The length of therapy depends on your goals, but even short-term therapy can make a big difference.
7. “Therapy is too expensive.”
What people think: Therapy is a luxury only a few can afford.
The truth: Therapy is an investment in your well-being. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees, and online therapy options are often more affordable. Plus, the cost of untreated stress and anxiety can be much higher in the long run.
8. “Therapy is uncomfortable and awkward.”
What people think: You’ll be forced to share everything about yourself right away or talk about topics you’re not ready to address.
The truth: A good therapist moves at your pace. You’re in control of what you share and when, and the process is designed to feel supportive, not overwhelming.
9. “Therapy didn’t work for me in the past, so it never will.”
What people think: A bad experience with a therapist means therapy isn’t helpful.
The truth: Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Finding the right therapist and approach is key. If one method didn’t work, it doesn’t mean another won’t.
10. “Therapy means I have to relive painful experiences.”
What people think: Therapy will force you to dig up trauma you’d rather not face.
The truth: While some therapies explore past experiences, they do so gently and only when you’re ready. Many approaches focus on practical strategies for the present without requiring you to revisit the past in detail.
Is Therapy for You?
Misconceptions about therapy can feel overwhelming, but they don’t have to stop you from getting the support you deserve. Therapy isn’t about fixing something that’s broken—it’s about learning, growing, and finding better ways to manage life’s challenges.
Taking that first step might feel scary, but it could be the start of something life-changing.
