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Working with a psychologist is useful for those who are going through a difficult situation or are unable to cope with everyday problems. But many do not turn to a specialist because of unfounded, even ridiculous prejudices. Psychotherapist Shahinna Ali looks at some of them.
The fallacies listed below are something psychotherapists have to deal with all the time. And sometimes we ourselves hear these arguments from relatives and friends. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it is especially important to debunk such misconceptions. This will help remove some of the stigma associated with the help of psychiatrists and psychotherapists.
1. “Just talking about my problems won’t do anything.”
Psychotherapy is not just a conversation. Therapists learn a specific language to communicate and deliberately frame the dialogue in ways that help you get closer to your goal. If during the session it seems to the client that they are just talking with the psychologist, this means that he does not notice the carefully thought-out logic of the conversation, which allows you to find the root of the problem, brainstorm and outline a plan.
If the conversation is effortless, it may be due to an excellent therapeutic connection. This mutual understanding is critical to positive change. However, if talking to a therapist feels like talking to a friend and nothing else, and you don’t see any change, it’s possible that the therapist you’ve chosen isn’t right for you.
2. “All therapy is the same”
In the first sessions, there may indeed be elements that are common to different areas, such as a discussion of the rules and conditions of work, confidentiality issues, and a description of a situation that worries you.
But, in essence, therapy varies from one session to another and from one clinician to another. Even psychotherapists trained in the same institution and using the same theoretical approach can differ. Everyone has their own life and practical experience, their own interests, the depth of knowledge in a particular area.
In addition, you yourself can change in the course of therapy, especially if the work lasts for months or years. Well, if you change (this is the main factor), then your therapeutic experience will also change.
3. “I already have support. Therapy won’t do any good.»
Sensitive friends, sympathetic colleagues… Social support is certainly important. But our relatives are not professionals. Psychotherapists are specially trained in the art of listening and analyzing their problems with the client, looking for a solution without judgment and prejudice.
Perhaps your loved one is a psychotherapist. But it is extremely difficult for him to remain objective, impartial and balanced in a dialogue with you.
Therapists should not provide services to their loved ones. Those are the rules. But your friend, a psychotherapist, can recommend a suitable direction and a good specialist. Agree, it is very convenient.
4. «Psychotherapy is for abnormal people»
Our understanding of psychotherapy is terribly distorted. If a person needs the support of a psychotherapist, this does not mean that he is “sick” and “crazy”. This means that he is brave enough to ask for help when he needs it.
Who do you think is looking for mental health help? As a rule, those who are not able to think clearly, have a stable job, live independently, be a loving parent or partner, and so on.
Yes, such people often come into therapy, as do thousands of others who do not fit into this picture. This black-and-white view of mental health, the categorical division of people into normal and abnormal, leads to the fact that people simply ignore their problems. Just because a person is «normal» doesn’t mean they don’t need therapy.
5. “I will be forced to take medicine”
Mental health professionals work in different fields. If you think you will be prescribed medication, you most likely mean a psychiatrist or psychotherapist.
But in addition to them, psychologists, counselors and social workers can work in the format of talking therapy. In some cases, a visit to a psychiatrist can be helpful, but for many problems and diagnoses, talking therapy is a good choice as the main treatment.
An experienced psychotherapist will help you develop your strengths, learn to make decisions on your own and move in the right direction.
The need for drug treatment depends on the severity of your problem, but in any case, the question of including drugs in the treatment program should be discussed with the therapist first. If you have concerns about any medication, have the courage to speak up in your session. Perhaps dealing with fears in therapy will change your attitude.
All of these misconceptions show how great the power of clichés and stereotypes is. If you or your loved one believes any of them, try looking for verified information about therapy and mental health. Only an open and honest conversation about therapy can break down the high barriers of mistrust and prejudice that keep people from getting the help they need.
About the Expert: Shahinna Ali is a Physician, Mental Health Specialist, Florida Licensed Mental Health Consultant, and Certified Clinician.