If you’re considering professional mental support, you may have heard some counseling myths and be wondering if they’re true. This article will debunk seven of the most common counseling myths and show why counseling can be beneficial to anyone. Read on, and then schedule helpful counseling in Tucson, AZ, at In Balance Counseling.
Debunking Common Myths About Counseling
Myth #1 – Professional Counseling Is Unnecessary
While having friends and family to talk to is nice, you might not always feel comfortable being completely honest with them. Unlike those with firmly established views of who you are, a professional counselor will remain objective and will never judge your thoughts or feelings.
Myth #2 – Professional Counseling Is a Quick Fix
Many think they will only need one or two sessions to work through their issues. The fact is that there is no quick fix or one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to mental health.
Professional counseling will help you better understand yourself and allow you to work on your strengths, weaknesses, and worldviews for improved mental health.
Myth #3 – Seeking Counseling Indicates Personal Weakness
You might have heard that seeking professional counseling is a sign of weakness, but this simply is not true. The fact that you understand you need some outside help shows that you are brave and have the inner strength to recognize that need.
Myth #4 – Counseling Harms My Future Work or Academic Opportunities
You might think having or treating a mental illness will negatively impact your future opportunities. However, the truth is that you are showing initiative and emotional intelligence by acknowledging that you need assistance with your mental health issues, and institutions will see that.
Myth #5 – Once I Start Professional Counseling, I Won’t Be Able To Stop
This misconception often prevents individuals from seeking counseling, even when they know they need assistance to improve their mental health. You will not be stuck with a lifetime of counseling sessions if you begin seeing a counselor. Rather, you and your counselor will work together to evaluate your progress as you go, and you may reach a point where you no longer need counseling.
Myth #6 – Counselors Only Listen Without Helping
Counseling is a constructive process that aims to help you help yourself. Counselors do much more than just listen to you to vent about your problems. Your counselor will ask questions to clarify details, identify problematic thought patterns, and collaborate with you to help you define and reach specific goals.
Myth #7 – Seeking Counseling Means I’m Failing to be Independent
You don’t have to try to identify and solve the issues in your life alone. Seeking an expert in mental health will help you become more knowledgeable about yourself and the problems you are facing in life so that you can overcome obstacles more effectively.
Learn More About Scheduling Counseling
Now that you know those counseling myths aren’t true, you can begin your journey into mental health with professional counseling sessions at In Balance Counseling in Tucson, AZ. Learn more about the programs we offer, and call us today at 520-722-9631.