There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding psychotherapy that prevent people from seeking the help they need. In speaking with our clients, we have found there are many myths that prevented individuals from accessing therapy sooner. At the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy we are committed to transparency and empowering clients with knowledge about mental health. In this blog post, we will debunk ten of the most common myths about psychotherapy and share the facts of what psychotherapy is and is not.

Myth 1: Only people with severe mental health issues need psychotherapy.

Many people believe that psychotherapy is only for those with serious mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depression. However, psychotherapy can be beneficial for anyone who is struggling with their emotions, relationships, or life circumstances. Even those with mild anxiety or stress can benefit from talking to a therapist. In fact, most of the clients that we see at ACIP are high-functioning folx whose primary goal for therapy is to improve their relationships (with others and with themselves).

Myth 2: Psychotherapy is a sign of weakness.

Seeking help from a mental health professional is a sign of strength, not weakness. It takes courage to acknowledge that you need help and to take steps to improve your mental health. Further, psychotherapy is process that requires self-reflection and vulnerability - both of which require strength and commitment.

Myth 3: Psychotherapy is too expensive.

While some forms of psychotherapy can be expensive, there are many affordable options available. Many therapists offer sliding scale fees based on income, and some clinics offer free or low-cost counseling services. At the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy, we strive to make therapy as accessible and inclusive for ALL of our clients. All of our therapists have a limited number of reduced-fee slots for clients with financial need, and our therapists-in-training (interns) provide low-cost services.

Myth 4: Psychotherapy is a never-ending process.

Psychotherapy is not an open-ended process, and it is not uncommon for patients to complete treatment within a few months. The length of treatment depends on the individual’s needs; our therapists at ACIP offer both short-term and long-term therapy. The therapeutic journey looks different depending on our clients individual needs and goals. Some folx may only need therapy for 2-3 months to address a specific concern, while others may invest in therapy for years as part of their healing and self-actualization. Our therapists work collaboratively with each client to determine both the length of treatment and the frequency of sessions based on their presenting concerns and their goals for therapy.

Myth 5: Psychotherapy is only talk therapy.

Psychotherapy encompasses a wide range of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, somatic therapy, and art therapy, among others. Different approaches are suited to different people and their unique needs. The clinical team at ACIP practice from a variety of therapeutic orientation and modalities; to learn more about our therapists clinical approaches, we invite you to read their profiles on our website.

Myth 6: Psychotherapy is only for adults.

Children and adolescents can also benefit from psychotherapy. Therapy can help children and adolescents with a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and social difficulties. At ACIP, we offer services to teens (14+) and adults.

Myth 7: Psychotherapy is only for people who have experienced trauma.

Therapy is for EVERYONE, not just people with a trauma-related diagnosis. While therapy can certainly be helpful for people who have experienced trauma, it is not the only reason to seek therapy. In addition to helping individuals heal from trauma, therapists also teach you coping skills, help you to understand your thoughts and feelings, and provide support and guidance. Therapy can also be preventative in helping you address stressors or problematic patterns in your life before they become debilitating.

Myth 8: Psychotherapy is a one-size-fits-all approach.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to psychotherapy. Different people have different needs, and therapists work collaboratively and transparently with patients to develop unique, individualized treatment plans that are tailored to their specific goals and needs. We’re not here to tell you what to do. We’re here to walk with you on your journey towards mental well-being.

Myth #9: I don't need therapy. I can talk to my friends or family about my problems.

While talking to your friends and family can be helpful, it is not the same as talking to a therapist. Our therapists are trained to listen to your problems without judgment, deepen your awareness about problematic patterns, and to help you find solutions. They can also provide you with support, encouragement and guidance as you work through your issues.

Myth #10: I'm not sure if psychotherapy is right for me.

If you are thinking about therapy, the best way to find out if it is right for you is to talk to a therapist. At the Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy we offer a complimentary phone consultation where we can answer any questions you may have and ensure our therapists are good fit for your concerns. There is no obligation to commit to therapy after your initial phone consultation, so you can use this time to ask questions and see if you feel comfortable with the therapist.

If any of those myths about therapy have been keeping you from getting started, it might be time to try a therapy session to see what it’s all about.

Learn more about our online therapy services or our therapy services for trauma or therapy for depression.

Aguirre Center for Inclusive Psychotherapy

Providing affirming, inclusive, and anti-oppressive therapy in Atlanta, Georgia and beyond.