7 Common Questions & Myths About Therapy

I thought I would take this opportunity to write some of the most frequently asked questions I get asked (and how I answer) about therapy.

1. How much will therapy cost?

Costs vary widely. Generally, prices should reflect training, licensing and years of experience.

• Training & Licensing:
  • Is the therapist a recognized licensed registered professional?
    • There are many professional designations; it can be hard to understand. They can all be effective, but the designations can be important if finances are of concern.
    • It may mean insurance companies will reimburse for part or all sessions, and, in Canada, a recognized license professional receipts can submitted at the end of the year for tax purposes.
• Experience:
  • The more experience therapists have addressing your particular concern or problem area, the more expertise and wisdom they have developed for your benefit.

2. Therapy is too expensive; it’s not for me.

Price can prohibit some people from seeking help.

I always encourage people to consider what their issue is and what the gain would be to have it resolved.

Try answering these questions:

• How has it impacted your life so far?
• How does it impact your quality of life or your loved ones?
• How much would you pay not to experience the pain or discomfort anymore?

Only you can decide if it is worth the investment in your life.

A few more thoughts you could consider are:

• How much money do you spend on things to make you feel better? Car, clothes, massages, vacations?
• The investment of working on yourself will show gains every year, for the rest of your life. For many, therapy is a valuable investment that pays dividends over the rest of your life and your families too.

3. People who go to therapy are weak.

Try this perspective: a student goes to school to learn what they don’t know, a sick person goes to the Doctor when they are sick and don’t know how to make themselves well.

In the same way, seeking help from a therapist enables you to learn how to help yourself feel better, for the rest of your life.

4. Isn’t therapy just common sense?

Common sense is wisdom that applies to everyone, across the board. In therapy, you receive wisdom and guidance based 100% on you and your particular experience and circumstances, from a trained expert, who works with you to reach your goals.

5. Do I really need therapy. Can’t I just talk with friends?

• Friends and family can offer invaluable, precious support, love and care. But counseling is different. During therapy, you work with a highly trained expert who knows how to recognize and treat issues.
• It’s also one on one and it’s all about you. There are no other relationships or agendas to consider, which can happen when you talk with family members and friends.
• Therapy with a licensed professional is fully confidential. That is not always the case with family and friends. This alone can make the difference for so many.

6. How do I pick the right counsellor for me?

There are many factors that can go into making this decision.

I believe two important ones are:

1. Ask yourself if their experience and specialty areas are similar to your areas of concern.
2. Do you feel comfortable with them? If you do not feel comfortable or safe, then it doesn’t provide much basis to build on and move forward.

Tip: Ask if they offer a free consultation so you can talk with them or visit their office. Many counselors welcome free consultations to see if they are a good fit for you.

7. Does my counsellor have to know everything?

• It is completely up to you what you choose to tell and when, but consider that the more information you provide, the more progress you’ll make.
• This is a common concern, but we can’t know unless you tell us, and it will be harder to help you without a full picture.

I hope this was useful. If you have other questions about therapy or finding a therapist, please feel free to contact me.

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Warm regards,

About Judy Colpitts

Judy is a Life Coach and Registered Clinical Counsellor with over 30 years experience helping people lead happier, healthier lives.

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Please note: The information offered on this website is intended to be educational and does not constitute professional medical advice and should not be used as a substitute for medical diagnosis, advice or services. Always consult with your Doctor before making any changes to your health routine.