"Wait... Therapy’s Actually Like That?”: 6 Therapy Myths You Can Let Go Of

Thinking about starting therapy but feeling unsure? Maybe you’ve heard some stuff that’s got you side-eyeing the idea. Totally fair!

Therapy can seem intimidating, especially when pop culture, social media, or well-meaning friends and family have painted a picture that just doesn’t sit right.

Let’s clear the air. Here are 6 common myths about therapy and the truth that might just make you feel so much better about giving it a try.

Myth #1: Therapy is the same as talking to a friend

Not quite - what can make it feel like this is you having a strong working relationship with your therapist and feeling comfortable with them. Unlike a friendship, though, this space is strictly focused on you. Further, unlike a casual chat, therapy is guided by evidence-based techniques to help you understand patterns and process emotions. Lastly, friends might listen or give advice, but a therapist helps you go deeper, without personal bias or emotional investment in your choices.

Myth #2: Therapy once a month is fine

This is ultimately a goal that can be worked towards in therapy. However, when starting therapy, the recommended frequency of sessions is weekly or every other week. Anything less frequent will feel like playing catch up. This is unlikely to be helpful because both you and the therapist are likely to forget what was discussed, it makes it difficult for you to stay accountable, and you ultimately lose momentum and focus in the work. Just like anything new that we incorporate into our lives, it takes time and consistency to get into a flow. The frequency of your sessions will be an ongoing topic of discussion between you and your therapist, in case anything needs to be modified.

Myth #3: Therapy is only for people with money

Therapy is available at all price points. In Canada, you can access free therapy primarily through community mental health agencies. The problem with these is often that there are waitlists of up to a few years and then limited sessions are provided.

Therapy is also offered by private practitioners. These can range in price from $20-$200+/session. The good news is that these are often covered by insurance and may offer a sliding scale and immediate availability. If you do have insurance benefits that you could use to fund your sessions, it would be helpful to understanding your total coverage amount and let your therapist know so that together you can figure out how many sessions you'll have. This information will also help you and your therapist plan for each upcoming session.

Myth #4: Therapy is only for those with a mental illness

Just like everyone can benefit from support for our physical health, the same applies to our mental health. It doesn’t matter who you are, whether you have a mental illness or not, or whether you’ve been through something traumatic or not. At the end of the day, we all experience challenges with our mental health, and that’s okay. It’s what makes us human. Therapy can provide a space that can allow someone to better understand and cope with their diagnosis, if they've received one, and it can also provide a space for anyone to gain tools to support their mental health and overall well-being.

Myth #5: Therapists always focus on the past

Not necessarily. While therapy may explore your past to understand how it shaped and continues to influence your current thoughts, feelings, and patterns, it’s not about staying stuck there. Many therapists focus on the present and your goals for the future, helping you make meaningful changes now. Understanding your past is just one piece of the puzzle - not the whole picture. If you're concerned about focusing too much on your past, tell your therapist about it. Your therapist will want to know what your hopes and expectations are for therapy. Remembering, this is your space and there isn't only one way to go about healing.

Myth #6: All therapy is the same

Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all and not all the same. There are many approaches (like CBT, psychodynamic, or EMDR) that therapists are trained in. Most importantly, every therapist brings their own style, training, and personality. Some focus more on emotions, others on behaviour or thought patterns. Your consultation with a therapist is a great opportunity to learn more about your therapist's style and approach to therapy.

There are many misunderstandings about therapy. If you have worries and questions that are holding back from trying therapy, know that it offers a unique experience with every single therapist. Most Importantly, it will be heavily informed by you and your preferences.

Evidence suggests that your relationship with your therapist accounts for approximately 80% of your success rate in therapy. So, schedule your free consultation with a therapist (or more than one!), ask your questions, and be picky.

If you’d like to book a free consultation with us, simply click here to book your appointment through our online booking system. We can’t wait to meet you!