Let’s be honest—asking for help can feel intimidating. But here’s the truth: everyone needs support at some point, and reaching out is actually a sign of strength, not weakness.
As someone who both provides therapy and benefits from it personally, I can tell you from experience—therapy isn’t just for when things are falling apart. It’s for growth, healing, and understanding yourself better.
Think of It Like Car Trouble…
Imagine you’re driving and your car starts making a strange noise. You might try to ignore it at first, hoping it’ll go away. But eventually, it gets worse—and you know it needs attention.
Would you try to fix the engine yourself, even if you had no clue how? Probably not. You’d take it to a trained mechanic.
So why do we treat our mental health any differently? We trust doctors with our bodies, contractors with our homes, and mechanics with our cars. But when it comes to our minds—our emotional well-being—we hesitate. We keep quiet. We avoid seeking help. Why?
Let’s unpack some of the most common myths and misunderstandings around therapy—and why they don’t hold up.
The Stigma Around Therapy
Mental health is just as vital as physical health—and the two are deeply connected. Yet, too many people shy away from therapy because of outdated stigma or fear of being judged. It’s time we change that.
In fact, nearly 1 in 5 people will face a mental health issue in their lifetime. That’s a lot of us. But the more we talk openly about therapy, the more we normalize it—and the more people will feel safe asking for help when they need it.
Myth #1: Going to Therapy Means You’re Weak
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Seeking help takes guts. It means you’re brave enough to face your challenges head-on and smart enough to know you don’t have to do it alone.
Therapy isn’t a last resort—it’s a tool. It shows that you’re invested in your own well-being and growth. And that’s powerful.
Myth #2: Therapy Is All About Your Childhood
Sure, your past may come up. But therapy isn’t about digging up old memories just for the sake of it. It’s about understanding how past experiences shape your present—and using that insight to build a better future.
Most of the time, therapy focuses on the here and now: how to cope with stress, make decisions, improve relationships, and move forward with purpose.
Myth #3: My Problems Aren’t “Big Enough” for Therapy
Let’s go back to that car analogy. Would you wait until the wheels fall off before seeing a mechanic? Of course not.
You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, uncertain, or just want to understand yourself better—those are all valid reasons to talk to someone. You deserve support, no matter what you’re going through.
Myth #4: I Can Just Talk to Friends or Family
Good friends are amazing, and having a solid support system is important. But therapists bring something else to the table—training, tools, and objectivity.
Putting your emotional needs solely on friends can unintentionally strain those relationships. A therapist offers a safe, unbiased space to explore your thoughts and feelings—without judgment or pressure.
Myth #5: Therapy Costs Too Much
Yes, therapy can be an investment—but it’s an investment in you. Think about how your mental health affects every part of your life: your relationships, work, sleep, motivation, even physical health.
Many therapists offer sliding scale fees, and there are also low-cost and online options available. If money is tight, it’s worth exploring resources in your community.
Myth #6: If I Start Therapy, I’ll Be in It Forever
Therapy isn’t a life sentence. It’s flexible and tailored to your goals. Some people benefit from a few sessions. Others choose ongoing support.
You and your therapist will work together to decide what’s best. And when the time is right, you’ll be equipped with tools and strategies to navigate life independently.
Myth #7: Therapy Isn’t Based on Science
Contrary to pop culture portrayals, therapy isn’t just “talking about your feelings” in a dimly lit room.
Modern therapy is grounded in science. Techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, and mindfulness-based approaches are backed by decades of research and real-world results. Therapists study for years to learn how to effectively support people—just like doctors or nurses.
Myth #8: A Therapist Has to “Get” Me to Help Me
You don’t need a therapist who’s lived your exact life story. What you do need is someone who listens with empathy, without judgment, and with the training to help you navigate your challenges.
A good therapist will work to understand your experience and provide the guidance you need—even if your paths in life are different.
Myth #9: Medication Works Better Than Therapy
Sometimes medication is helpful, even necessary. But research shows that combining therapy with medication often produces the best outcomes—especially for issues like anxiety, depression, or trauma.
Therapy helps you explore root causes, build coping strategies, and develop emotional resilience. Medication can support the process, but therapy is where real transformation often happens.
Myth #10: Therapists Have It All Figured Out
Spoiler alert: They don’t. Therapists are people, too. Many have experienced therapy themselves and understand firsthand the courage it takes to ask for help.
Their job isn’t to be perfect—it’s to be present, compassionate, and skilled at guiding others through life’s tough moments.
Don’t Wait. You Deserve to Feel Better.
There’s no shame in going to therapy. In fact, it’s one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself.
Whether you’re navigating a big life change, dealing with anxiety or grief, or just feeling off—therapy can help you find clarity, confidence, and calm. You’re not broken. You’re human.
So if you’ve been thinking about reaching out—do it. You’re worth the time. You’re worth the effort. And you don’t have to go through it alone.
