The American Psychological Association defines counseling as “professional assistance in coping with personal problems, including emotional, behavioral, vocational, marital, educational, rehabilitation and life-stage (e.g., retirement) problems.” The term—often used interchangeably with “therapy”—describes the application of supportive techniques to address a myriad of issues in a wide range of settings.
Unfortunately, long-held misconceptions can discourage some people from experiencing the potentially life-altering benefits that counseling has to offer. Below, we “get real” about the truth behind some of these mistaken beliefs:
MISCONCEPTION: “Counseling is only for people with severe mental health issues.”
TRUTH: While counseling can be crucial for individuals with severe mental health diagnoses, it is not limited to them. Everyone can benefit from counseling, from young children to seniors and anyone in between. Counseling provides support for a wide range of concerns, including relationship issues, work stress, grief, addiction and personal development. It can be valuable for anyone seeking guidance, regardless of the nature or severity of their struggles.
MISCONCEPTION: “Talking about—and focusing on—my problems will only make me feel worse.”
TRUTH: While it may be difficult to address struggles at first, dealing with impairing issues head-on is a wise strategy in the long term. In counseling, education and tools are provided to help individuals become the best version of themselves, long past when the therapy session ends.
MISCONCEPTION: “Counseling is just about venting for an hour while my counselor nods atme.”
TRUTH: Counseling is an interactive and collaborative relationship in which thecounselor acts as a supportive partner in achieving therapeutic goals. If yourcounselor provides little or no feedback—or if you feel it’s a “one-sided”relationship—it might be time to find a new therapist (with these tips).
MISCONCEPTION: “Counselors have their lives completely together and could never truly understand my issues.”
TRUTH: Counselors are people, too! Part of the human condition involves some level of suffering and most, if not all, counselors have experienced their fair share. Many counselors pursue this career because of their personal experience with suffering. Further, counselors are trained to practice with a non-judgmental and empathetic approach that encourages clients’ openness in a trusted relationship.
MISCONCEPTION: “Counseling is for weak people.”
TRUTH: Although our society has made progress in the way we perceive counseling, some stigma persists. We firmly believe that the most resilient individuals are those who can acknowledge their problems and take the necessary steps to confront them. It takes courage to recognize the need for change and take proactive steps toward self-improvement. Counseling offers a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping strategies and enhance personal growth.
By dispelling these misconceptions, we hope to encourage individuals to embrace the benefits of counseling. Recovery is possible at any stage of life, and counseling can be a powerful tool on the path to healing.
If you’re ready to experience the positive effects of counseling, Travco Behavioral Health can help! Call us today at 330.286.0050 to get started.
