9 Reasons Why People Avoid Counseling
“Only crazy people go to therapy and I am not crazy!”
People misunderstand that you don’t have to be mentally ill to benefit from counseling. Therapy helps you to identify and work through what would make you more satisfied with life.
2. “There is a stigma to getting help!”
Not so much anymore. People are more and more aware of how counseling
helps people resolve difficulties and live their happiest lives. Besides, counseling is strictly confidential. In my practice, I don’t give out any information about you without your written consent. No one has to know about your therapy unless it is something that you want to share.
3. “I’ve been to therapy before and it didn’t help!” Not all therapists are created equal and you may not have found one that was a good “fit” for you.
I’ve often helped people that have seen other therapists and not felt helped. Luckily, they didn’t give up looking for the help they needed. The best indicator of success in counseling is the “goodness” of the fit between therapist and client. If you need help, don’t give up looking for a good fit for you.
4. “I am afraid that my therapist will be judgmental and tell me what to do!”
My job as a therapist is never to judge or criticize, only to help you understand you and your motivations. The more you know about yourself the easier it will be to go forward in ways that are right for you. I never tell clients what they should do, but, rather, I help them decide what is in their best interest.
5. “How will I pay for therapy?” Therapy doesn’t have to last as long as you think it might. In fact, most people stay in therapy for 8 to 12 sessions. I am a provider for some insurance panels. If I am not contracted with yours, I can help you look into whether you have “out of network” benefits that may reimburse you for some of your expense. I do offer some sliding fees. If you are interested in therapy, let’s talk about how we can make it work for you.
6. “How can just talking be of any help?” Studies have shown that when people are able to really confide their feelings, it can improve the “feel good” chemicals in your brain and rewire some of the ways you think. You won’t just be talking, I’ll be helping you to see things differently and discover new and better coping strategies.
7. “Going to therapy is a sign of weakness!” Nothing could be further from the truth. Rather, it takes courage to know when you need to seek help. Everyone needs help from time to time and it is a wise person who knows when they could use some assistance.
8. “I can resolve my own problems, I don’t need any help!” That is certainly true sometimes. But, if you feel stuck, the added perspective of a trained professional can help you to see things differently. The added support may be just what you need to overcome persistent problems or obstacles.
9. “I don’t need to dig up the past, that won’t do any good.” Therapy shouldn’t get stuck on the past. We want to focus on what is bothering you now. Learning about your past experiences provides us some good information about why you have become the person you are today. The more we know about you, past and present, the better we can see how you should proceed. That way, we can actively help you work toward achieving your goals.