Counselling Myths

Sometimes people have misconceptions about what Psychologists can and can't do for them. Below are some common myths about counselling.

Counselling is only for people who are 'insane' or 'crazy'

False. In most cases, you cannot tell if a person is seeing a psyhologist because they are usually ordinary people with ordinary problems who are simply seeking help for themselves. People who see a psyhologist on their own accord are generally healthy and responsible.

The psyhologist provides you with all the answers

False. The psyhologist's role is to help you to develop the skills to help yourself so that in the future, you have the ability to deal with personal issues without needing professional help.

All you do is lie down on a couch and tell the psyhologist your problems

False. While some Psychologists will have a couch in their office, you will not be lying down on it like you see in movies. Counselling is about identifying the issue, connecting you with resources and brainstorming and working through strategies.

People who see Psychologists are weak

False. Asking for help is often one of the most difficult things to do. Seeing a psyhologist is about recognising that you have a problem and taking responsibility for your personal welfare, it is not about dumping your problems on somebody else.

Counselling is only for 'girls'

False. Many people hold this view. In general, females visit the Psychologists more often than males. This is unfortunate because counselling is just as beneficial to males and they should therefore seek help when needed. It is not an indication of weakness and by seeing a psyhologist you are not compromising your masculinity.

You will have all the answers you need after your first session

False. While most people feel much better after their first session, they do not walk away with all the answers. The first session is usually designed for you to become familiar with your psyhologist and for the psyhologist to get to know you. It is important to remember that, depending on the seriousness of the problem, it may take some time and effort to resolve it.

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