5 Lies About Psychotherapy
There are many lies circulating about psychotherapy. Just like half-truths or meaningless myths. A lot of people don’t understand that this whole constellation of experiences that we call “mind” is in the brain. And that the brain is a complex organ that can end up functioning improperly, whether for organic reasons or because it presents a distortion in its symbolic processes.
It is perfectly normal that the mind does not always work at a hundred percent. Just as it is normal for us to have a fever or cavities at certain times in our life. However, unlike other treatments, that of the mind is more abstract. The brain is not just an organ: it is also an impressive producer of immaterial experiences. This is why some of its processes are not treated simply with a drug or an injection, but through other methods. One of them is psychotherapy.
There are a lot of lies about psychotherapy because some people denigrate it without even trying it. Cartoons and stereotypes have also spread and have generated prejudices vis-à-vis this type of treatment. What are these baseless lies that many people believe? Here are five.
1. They are used to have someone to talk to
We sometimes hear statements like “The best psychologist is God” or “I don’t go to a psychologist because friends are made for it”. These types of phrases tell us one of the biggest lies about psychotherapy: the fact that they amount to everyday conversation.
Although words are the fundamental tool of almost all therapy, the dialogue that takes place in treatment has different motivations, intentionality and effects than everyday conversation. The psychologist takes care of this fact.
2. They are only useful when going through a crisis
It is true that in the majority of cases, people resort to psychotherapy when they are going through a crisis. The most frequent is that the immediate antecedent is a loss, whether it is because of a romantic break-up, a dismissal or the death of a loved one. This is usually when a person notices they need help.
Psychotherapy is a factor that helps to deal with and get through these types of situations. However, you don’t have to be in a crisis to see a psychologist. You can consult a professional to learn how to manage any situation: it does not have to be critical.
3. Only famous therapists are valid
Another lie about psychotherapy is the one that says it takes a highly trained professional if you want good attention. This is not true. For psychotherapy to work, it is the commitment of the patient that is fundamental.
Of course, it is very important to make sure that the psychologist who is treating you has degrees. If you’ve gotten good references on him, you’ll be more likely to listen to him. Payment is one way of making a commitment here.
4. A good friend could do the same
Our friends are surely ready to help us if they see that we have a problem. The fact that they listen to us is very valuable, as is the fact that they give us their perspective on the issues we tell them.
However, there is a difference between the feeling of companionship and warmth they can bring us and the ability they may have to detect and help us deal with an emotional or mental problem. A qualified person is essential, and they should not have personal links with us.
5. It’s a necessary sacrifice
One of the stereotypes about psychotherapy indicates that it is an extremely serious process, during which the person is going to be analyzed and questioned. This is not the case. The real protagonist of these treatments must be the patient.
In fact, many would be surprised at how interesting and fun this type of process can be. When you are determined to get better, when you really want to, psychotherapy becomes a real research laboratory. Knowing more about yourself, with the help of a professional, is absolutely fascinating.
So, just as we dread our appointment with the dentist, we have doubts when it comes to seeing a psychologist. However, the most important thing is to understand that this is a viable alternative when you need help or when you feel that life is not going the way you would like it to be.
Our thoughts There are many psychological therapies. All have the same goal, the same therapeutic target: to facilitate the change towards well-being …
