There are a lot of myths about counseling in Wake Forest NC out there. These myths often keep people from seeking the support and help they need. Today we’re going to tackle five myths about counseling and talk about the truth!
Myth No. 1 – You have to be severely mentally ill, “crazy,” or have a serious problem to go to counseling
Fact: You don’t have to have any of that going on for counseling to be beneficial – and, really, who defines “crazy” anyway? Getting counseling early on can help keep you from having a serious problem or mental illness. We don’t just go to the doctor when stuff is wrong – we get an annual physical every year to make sure we’re all good. Counseling is like good preventive medicine. It helps us sort through the little things so they don’t become big things.
Myth No. 2 – Someone who doesn’t know me can’t help me
Fact: It’s actually really helpful a counselor does not know you. We don’t have any preconceived ideas about you like friends or family. We also are able to help you challenge yourself in a way friends or family can’t or won’t. We also don’t tell you what to do – we help you figure that out and help you develop the strength to do it.
Myth No. 3 – Counselor just sit and nod from their little chair with a scowl on their face.
Fact: The way TV and movies portray counselors is pretty ridiculous. We have comfortable spaces and we talk with you. A counselor who just sits and stares with a blank expression and only the occasional head nod is a made for TV fiction. Counselors should be engaging and talking with you. Good counselors generally do more listening than speaking, but they are not detached and distant.
Myth No. 4 – Counseling will take foreveeeeerrrrr
Fact: Counseling is not designed to be a forever thing. We tell our clients we want to help them meet their goals and live their life, remembering us fondly (or even not remembering us at all!). It does take longer for some folks than others, depending on what’s going on. However, the goal is that you’ll be able to get where you want to go and then weekly counseling won’t be needed anymore.
Myth No. 5 – Once I’ve met my goals I can never see my counselor again
Fact: You can always come back if something comes up or if you just need to check in. You may not need weekly sessions anymore, but you can always get a tune up. I often recommend quarterly tune-up visits to clients – especially couples – to maintain the amazing work they’ve done. And you can always try out different counselors for different seasons of life. Who you saw as a single 20-something may not be the best fit when you’re a 30-something with three kids. (For more info on how to find a counselor, check out our blog here).
We hope this has helped dispel some myths about counseling in Wake Forest NC for you! We want you to find the most amazing counselor and attain those goals you have. If we can be of help in getting you connected to one of our team, reach out today at 919-891-0525 for your free, 15-minute consultation. We’d love to see you in our Wake Forest office!