All emotions, feelings, dilemmas, and thoughts—positive or negative—are part of the human experience. It is natural to sometimes question why you may feel a certain way or struggle with navigating situations or emotions. How we manage our feelings is important to our overall wellbeing, it is what defines our mental health and ultimately our happiness. 

But, sometimes common mental health myths keep us stuck. Perceptions of who needs therapy, how therapy works, and access to services can keep people from seeking guidance when they need it. 

At CW Psychological Services in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania our doors are open to anyone willing to share. We regularly work with people from all walks of life to guide them as they navigate this world. But, all too often we hear many reasons why “therapy isn’t for me.” This post is focused on changing that as we explore the myths and facts of mental health care. 

Myth: Seeking counseling is a sign that something is wrong with me. 

Fact: Caring for your mental health by attending therapy or counseling is something everyone can benefit from. The goal of having regular sessions with a counselor or therapist is not to “fix” you, it is to provide support and tools. In therapy, your provider will offer unbiased personal support. They will listen without judgment and help give you a greater understanding of what makes you You. Counseling can help you define a path for achieving personal goals, find confidence and comfort within, and clear your mind, among many other things. 

Myth: Going to therapy means I am weak.

Fact: Quite the contrary. Going to therapy takes courage and strength. It can be a wonderful step to face your feelings instead of ignoring them. It is a positive step towards bettering yourself for those you love. 

Myth: My health insurance won’t cover counseling.

Fact: Many insurance plans do cover behavioral health services. The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires coverage for mental health conditions to be comparable to physical health conditions. At CW Psychological Services, we are contracted with many plans to ensure affordability. We strongly encourage you to contact your insurance company to learn about your coverage. If insurance is not an option, we offer a sliding payment scale to ensure access to care.

Myth: Therapy is only for people with serious mental health issues.

Fact: Therapy is for everyone. It is a valuable tool for helping people address mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, but it can also be a great benefit to anyone seeking personal growth or emotional support in any facet of life. Therapy can assist in a wide range of situations including coping with stress, job changes, household/family dynamics, relationship difficulties, and major life changes. 

Myth: I have been fine managing my emotions alone in the past, and I don’t need help.

Fact: Not every coping mechanism is the same, as not every situation is the same. While you may have successfully navigated emotions in the past, you could still benefit from additional support moving forward. In therapy, you can learn new ways to approach situations and helpful tools to help prevent feeling overwhelmed.

Myth: Seeking help means I will have to start taking medication.

Fact: There are many different methods of providing mental health support. Treatment can include medication, talk therapy, and lifestyle changes, to name a few. At CW Psychological Services, we currently do not have any clinicians licensed to prescribe medication. We offer talk therapy as the first and only line of mental health treatment. If medication is something you think may supplement your therapy, we can work in conjunction with a prescribing provider to assist in overall well-being. Ultimately, your provider will listen to your needs and goals and create a plan that works for you.

Myth: Talking about my mental health will just make things worse.

Fact: Having open conversations about mental health has many benefits. It can help to put a name to what you are feeling and make you feel less alone. It can help identify possible solutions and tools to make those feelings less intrusive. Ignoring concerns rarely makes them go away, and typically can lead to more difficulties later on. Often verbalizing what you are feeling is the first step to healing. 

Myth: Therapy sessions will be spent on a couch talking.

Fact: Counseling sessions are held in a private, safe space. They can be done remotely through a secure online platform or in person. Sessions can include a combination of talking, listening, and other tools from a skilled provider. 

Myth: All mental health care is the same. 

Fact: Just like no two people are the same, no two therapy experiences are the same. Your mental health provider will work with you to determine a plan that works best for you and your needs. 

Ready to begin counseling in Pennsylvania?

Counselors and associate-level clinicians at CW Psychological Services are professionally trained. We have openings for online, or telehealth, therapy appointments. Email us at [email protected] or call (610) 308-7575. We are here for you.