Top 4 Myths about Counseling & Therapy in Philadelphia

Therapy in Philadelphia can be an intimidating thing to begin, especially when you’ve never been in counseling before. While there are a lot of well-intended things out there written about going to therapy or seeing a counselor, some sources only add to the mystery and frankly, are not accurate.  

Today, I’m going to debunk the top myths I’ve heard about psychotherapy, counseling, and therapy in Philadelphia.

Seeing a Therapist or Counselor in Philadelphia Myths

1.     “Seeing a therapist in Philadelphia online, virtually, or via Telehealth isn’t as effective as ‘regular’ therapy in a physical office.”

FALSE.

THE TRUTH—

>>> Although seeing a therapist virtually online or via Telehealth is relatively a newer thing, there is no evidence to support the claim that it isn’t as effective as literally being in the same room and physically sharing a space with your therapist. What does contribute to the misunderstanding is that not all therapists feel comfortable conducting therapy online (which, by the way, is completely ok).

The problem is that when this discomfort becomes evident to their clients and then affects the quality of the therapeutic experience.

2.     “I can just talk to my partner/friend/spouse/family member instead of going to therapy”

FALSE.

THE TRUTH—

>>> It’s just not the same. Mental health therapists, counselors, and psychotherapists all have extensive specialized training in how to practice psychotherapy. Your friend, partner, or sister may be a great listener, but they aren’t objective- their relationship with you is of a personal nature and that contributes to bias. Besides, do you really want to share all of those intimate thoughts and feelings with a parent or spouse or whomever, especially when they may be part of the problem?

3.     “Only people with serious mental health problems or issues (“crazy people”) see a counselor.”

FALSE.

THE TRUTH—

>>> While it is true that people who are seriously mentally ill need some form of treatment, the vast majority of people who seek out therapy are typical people who just need additional support or help to manage their lives. Sometimes, individuals just need a safe place to be vulnerable.

I’m a huge advocate of going to therapy as a way to practice self-care. It’s just a healthy thing to do. I’m the first to admit that I have my own therapist just because it helps keep me balanced and grounded.

Let’s stop the stigma associated with seeing a therapist. 

4.     “All therapists and counselors in Philadelphia are the same or do the same things.”

FALSE.

THE TRUTH—

>>> Besides the fact that all therapists, psychotherapists, and counselors in Philadelphia, are individual, different human beings, with their own unique personalities and personal experiences that they bring to the table, therapists have a wide array of approaches, education, and specialties in which they practice. I wrote about the importance of finding therapists who specialize in what you need help with here.

If you’ve still got questions about therapy or counseling in Philadelphia, please feel free to reach out here or call me. I’d be happy to clarify any confusion you may have about seeking therapy. I offer free consultations for virtual therapy in Philadelphia. Call me today or click here to book your counseling consultation.