Interactive Directory

Therapy - Break Through Your Fears And Get The Help You Need

I have watched people waste years of their lives, because they are afraid of seeing a therapist. Our fear of therapy often comes from what we see in movies and TV. Fortunately, reality is a lot more pleasant. Here are some of the greatest myths and realities of therapy.

1. I will have to reveal all my secrets.

New clients often worry that they will have to disclose their deepest and most embarrassing details of their life. It is true, that honesty helps in therapy, but it is also true that trust takes time to develop. If you feel too vulnerable in therapy, it can actually hurt rather than help you. It is far better to share your life at a pace that you feel comfortable with.

2. People will think I am crazy for seeing a therapist.

Most people have heard the cliche that, "men won't ask for directions - they would rather drive around lost for hours." I would be lying, if I said I had not been guilty of this myself. We laugh at this cliche, because we realize that it is better to ask for help than to endlessly struggle alone. Because of this, most therapists view getting help when you need it, as a sign of strength.

Another thing to consider is that there are many different reasons that people come to therapy. Many people don't see a therapist, because something is wrong with their life, rather they are there to "take life to the next level." These are people who have a good life now, but want things to be even better.

3. I will change into someone other than me.

Growth takes time to occur. Most people who are in therapy for some time, experience their change as "growth". They are able to look back at their past experiences with new-found clarity. This is similar to how we matured when we were children. As each year passed, we saw ourselves and the world a little different. Most people find that their core sense of who they are never changes.

4. Men in white coats will take me away.

Only in extremely rare cases, can someone be forced to get help against their will. Laws vary by state, but usually this can only happen if a person is actively planning to do serious physical harm to themselves or others. Even if a person is having suicidal thoughts; unless there is reason to believe that this person will carry those plans out in the near future, no one can force them to get help.

5. Someone will find out that I am in therapy.

Your confidentiality is essential for a client-therapist relationship and is well protected by law. Again, there are a few important exceptions that vary state-to-state, such as requirements for reporting child abuse. However, for the most part, you can rest assured that your participation in therapy will never be revealed to anyone.

6. My therapist will be able to see through me.

People sometimes worry that the therapists possess x-ray vision that will let them see client's darkest secrets. It is true that therapists have training and experience that helps them to be very insightful. Fortunately, none of them have special powers that let them see through people. You secrets safely belong to you.

Most people find that their fears of therapy soon pass. Getting the help you need, can be one of the most important decisions you take in your life. I hope this article makes it easier to take your next step.