6 Myths About Counseling and Therapy in San Luis Obispo

In a previous blog post I shared Tips to Find a Great San Luis Obispo Therapist, Psychologist, or Counselor. So, you’ve identified a few counselors that seem nice, and you may have your first session scheduled… and yet you have doubts. Should you be going to therapy for your issue? Will therapy even help? Can you afford it? 

It makes sense that you have doubts. We live in a success-obsessed, outcomes-based culture that places great value on self-sufficiency and an individualistic mindset. While there is nothing wrong with striving for success, it’s important to find a balance. We are social beings and thrive with strong connections and support from others. The self-sufficient mindset can be dangerous when it discourages people from seeking support, which can increase isolation and intensify symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. 

Hi, I’m Andrea Bey, LMFT, and San Luis Obispo therapist. Below I’ll identify 6 common myths and misconceptions about therapy and counseling and offer some alternative insights.

Myth #1: “I should be able to solve my problems on my own, or by talking to my family or friends.”

I wish it was this easy! Counselors spend years in school, and even more time outside of school learning how to best support people who are struggling with various life stressors, relationship struggles, and mental health disorders.

I believe that many issues can be solved on your own and/or by talking it through with loved ones, once you have the right tools. A big part of therapy is learning tools and techniques for solving problems on your own in the future.

Getting an outside, objective perspective from a therapist who is not emotionally tied to your family can be so valuable. 

Myth #2: “I’m weak if I need outside support to solve my problems."

It takes a lot of guts to acknowledge that you need help. It takes even more courageous to speak your truth, and seek the support, tools, and self-understanding you need to thrive.

Myth #3: “Therapy is too expensive for me.”

Therapy is a significant investment in your own wellbeing, as is health insurance, a gym membership, chiropractic care, and other self-care activities such as massage, nail and hair services. Some therapists contract directly with health insurance companies for individual therapy. Other therapists, such as myself, are out-of-network providers that can provide you with a superbill to send to your insurance company for possible partial reimbursement. There are also some community agencies and nonprofit organizations that offer free or reduced-fee services based on income. Group therapy is an alternative to individual therapy and is often much less expensive per session. 

What is the potential cost if you do not seek support? It may be your relationship with your significant other, your job, or continuing to suffer in silence with debilitating panic attacks. I believe that your mental health and wellbeing is a worthwhile investment.

Myth #4: “I will be viewed as crazy if I go to a therapist.”

How would you view your best friend if they told you that they are going to a therapist for support with a problem in their life? Most likely your first thought would not be, “You’re crazy!” Many of us are much kinder to others than we are to ourselves. 

Although some people do seek counseling for severe mental illness, people also seek therapy every day for common issues such as relationship struggles, feelings of sadness and grief after a loss, and for support with navigating life transitions, such a marriage, the birth of a child, career changes, etc. 

Myth #5: “I’ve tried therapy before and it doesn’t work for me.”

What may not work at one stage of life may be just what is needed at another stage. You may have tried therapy as a kid while living in an abusive home, or you may have gone to a few sessions in college when you were in a toxic relationship. Your life may be different now. You may now live in a safe and stable home environment, and be ready to finally process that past trauma and move on with your life. 

Myth #6: “What happens at home should stay at home.” 

In my opinion, this is the most detrimental myth. So many of us were taught by our parents and family to keep our mouths shut about what goes on at home. In addition to ignoring dad’s violence, mom’s depression, and Sam’s eating disorder, we were expected to make excuses when questioned by others. I love the AA adage, “We are only as sick as our secrets.” 

It takes immense courage to speak about the unspeakable. In my work as a trauma and EMDR therapist, I’ve come to realize that many of the secrets we carry are wrapped in shame and were placed on us by someone else. With support from a trained counselor or therapist, you can unload your backpack of shame, process past trauma, and confidentiality move forward. You don’t have to suffer in silence any longer. 

Ready to Give Therapy a Try?

You deserve support from someone who can help you move past your trauma and daily struggles and toward your best life. I hope the information above helps you find the best San Luis Obispo therapist for you. If you are ready to speak your truth and give therapy a try, give me a call at 805-225-4495 for a free 15-minute phone consultation. I specialize in EMDR therapy for women in San Luis Obispo, CA