Myths About Therapy That Keep People Stuck

Many highly successful and high-functioning people recognize that therapy offers value and benefit, but they doubt they need the support “enough” to reach out. They are working full-time jobs, managing a household, and presenting a version of themselves that appears okay or thriving, yet may feel overwhelmed, unfulfilled, or lacking clarity internally. 

Below are some myths and truths about therapy that may help you decide if you’re ready to talk:

• Myth: I need to be in crisis to be appropriate for therapy, such as suffering a significant loss.

• Truth: Therapy is very effective at keeping you from reaching crisis status or setting you up with effective coping strategies to prevent feelings of overwhelm or burnout when crises occur.

• Myth: I am successful and highly functioning; if I ask for help, it means I’m a failure.

• Truth: Seeking therapy does not mean you are failing; it means you are seeking clarity and guidance on how to best use your strengths and assets with focus, intention, and confidence.

• Myth: I will have to relive my past and talk about painful things in therapy.

• Truth: In strength-focused, solutions-oriented therapy, you will collaborate with a therapist to develop an individualized treatment plan that is forward-focused and designed to reduce overthinking, regulate emotions, and support clearer decision-making.

• Myth: If I talk about my problems, I will feel worse.

• Truth: Therapy is intended to create stability and clarity – improving your decision-making and problem-solving capabilities. Effective emotion regulation will lead to more thoughtful and deliberate decisions and help you respond intentionally rather than react.

Seeking therapy doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means you’re paying attention.

If life feels heavy right now, or I’ve addressed a myth above that resonated, and you feel ready to talk – please reach out for a free consultation!