20 COMMON MYTHS ABOUT COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY



20 COMMON MYTHS ABOUT COUNSELLING & PSYCHOTHERAPY

Starting on a journey of mental well-being can be a significant step, yet it is often complicated by prevalent myths about counselling and psychotherapy. Unfortunately, these widespread misunderstandings can deter individuals from seeking the vital support they need. 

And since interest in counselling and psychotherapy is still growing in Singapore, addressing these inaccuracies is particularly important. So, in this article, we’ll explore 20 common misconceptions about therapy and replace them with reliable information. 

Why Understanding Therapy Myths Matters

While counsellors and psychologists are not centrally regulated in Singapore, professional bodies such as the Singapore Association for Counselling and Singapore Psychological Society provide vital guidance on ethical and professional conduct for their members. 

Despite this, the lack of comprehensive governmental regulation can still lead to some misconceptions and confusion around titles like counsellor, psychotherapist, and psychologist. This underscores the critical importance of understanding a therapist’s qualifications. So, individuals should seek practitioners with at least a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counselling or a related field, alongside extensive supervised clinical hours.

For instance, Ms. Tammy Fontana holds an M.S. in Mental Health Counselling from Capella University, a CACREP-approved institution. This academic background, combined with her completion of a 3,000-hour clinical practicum and internship under the supervision of senior, US-licensed professionals, provides a solid foundation for training and ethical practice.

And when you understand such qualifications, you can make informed decisions, ensuring you engage with experienced professionals rather than avoiding support.

Top 20 Myths about Counselling & Psychotherapy

To gain a deeper understanding of how counselling and psychotherapy work, consider examining the common myths surrounding these approaches. 

Myth 1: There’s a Big Difference Between Counselling & Psychotherapy 

The major difference lies in how counselling addresses short-term or current issues while psychotherapy focuses on recurring or chronic concerns. However, they are quite similar in the sense that both of them are talking therapies for mental well-being. While subtle differences in depth or duration may exist, a therapist’s qualifications, rather than the label, and their ability to provide effective support are what matter.

Myth 2: Therapy Never Works

This misconception about therapy is inaccurate, especially since both counselling and psychotherapy can be highly effective for those who commit to the process. Studies reveal that recipients of psychotherapy often report achieving their goals, resulting in positive mental health outcomes. Furthermore, success is significantly tied to engagement and readiness for change.

Myth 3: Therapy Always Works

One of the common myths about psychotherapy is that it guarantees universal success. In reality, the results of therapy vary, influenced by several factors. 

These include a client’s emotional readiness for change, the clarity and realism of their goals, and the presence of other support systems. Crucially, the working relationship, often referred to as the “Therapeutic Alliance,” between the client and their psychotherapist or counsellor also plays a significant role. 

Therefore, it’s essential to find a therapist whose approach aligns with you, as different practitioners may resonate more with certain individuals.

Myth 4: Therapy is Useless for Depression

This is a common misconception since psychotherapy and counselling are recognised as helpful tools for addressing depression. They enable individuals to explore underlying thought patterns, develop effective coping strategies, and understand the origins of their distress. Research also supports the significant benefits of talk therapy in managing and improving depressive symptoms, often complementing other forms of support.

Myth 5: It’s a Cure-All for Depression

The belief that psychotherapy and counselling are universal “cures” for depression is also a myth, especially since the results of therapy vary. Additionally, research shows that it works best when combined with other forms of support, such as medication. This comprehensive approach aims for long-term stability and helps prevent the recurrence of symptoms.

Myth 6: It Always Takes a Long Time

The belief that therapy always takes a long time is also a common misconception. The duration of counselling and psychotherapy varies significantly based on individual needs and goals. Research indicates that many individuals achieve clinically significant improvements within 12 to 20 weekly sessions, demonstrating that effective change can occur within a relatively short timeframe.

Myth 7: It Should Be Quick

Expecting therapy to always be quick is another misconception about counselling. Whether you’re seeking therapy for marriage concerns, depression, or anxiety, the duration is highly individual. The length depends on the complexity of the issues, personal goals, and the depth to which one wishes to explore concerns. While progress can sometimes occur swiftly, psychotherapy is a tailored process, not a guaranteed rapid fix.

Myth 8: Only Psychiatrists Can Do Therapy 

While psychiatrists can offer therapy, qualified psychotherapists and counsellors also provide comprehensive support. Many certified professionals deliver a range of services, from individual counselling to couples and pre-marriage counselling, focusing on emotional and psychological well-being.

Myth 9: Only Psychologists Can Offer Therapy

This is a common misconception about counselling, especially since qualified psychotherapists and counsellors are prepared to provide talking therapies from family counselling to sex therapy. Additionally, their experience stems from proper education and supervised practice, rather than solely holding a specific professional title.

Myth 10: Only One Approach Works (CBT, Psychodynamic, etc.)

Psychotherapy encompasses a diverse range of approaches, not just one. Many practitioners adopt an eclectic or integrated style, drawing from various methods like CBT or psychodynamic therapy. This allows them to tailor techniques to best suit each client’s unique concerns and personal goals.

Myth 11: Therapy Doesn’t Help if You’re on Medication

This is another misconception about counselling because psychotherapy can complement medication, with research suggesting it offers significant benefits even when medication alone isn’t fully effective. The optimal approach often involves a combination of both, as different individuals respond uniquely. However, it’s important to discuss combined treatment with your doctor.

Myth 12: Only Ex-Addicts Can Help Other Addicts

This myth is still met with commonly enough in and around the field of addiction counselling. Addiction support stems from a psychotherapist’s professional knowledge, skills, and rigorous training, not personal experience with addiction. As addictions manifest diversely, broad clinical understanding is more vital than a singular lived experience.

Myth 13: Therapists Have Perfect Lives

Therapists can sometimes be seen that way, and might even believe it themselves sometimes, but it is definitely a myth! A good therapist will be doing their own ongoing psychotherapy to ensure that their issues, big or small, never enter the session with a client. A good therapist engages in what they are doing for their client. If your therapist has never done counselling, that should be a red flag.

Myth 14: Clients Always Become Dependent on Therapists

The notion that clients always become dependent on their therapists is a misconception about counselling. While dependency can be a consideration in any helping relationship, skilled psychotherapists are trained to foster client autonomy. The aim is to empower individuals to develop their own coping mechanisms, not to create reliance.

Myth 15: Clients Never Become Dependent

It’s a risk, as with any situation where someone is helping someone else who is vulnerable, but it’s definitely not the norm, and a well-trained therapist will be able to handle it sensitively. A professional good therapist wants the client to no longer need them, achieve their goals, and get back to living.

Myth 16: Therapy Only Works for Educated People 

Intelligence and education have nothing to do with success in therapy, unless the client or the therapist believes it to be the case, in which case it may become a self-fulfilling prophecy. What makes the difference are the kinds of factors mentioned above – readiness, commitment, motivation, support etc.

Myth 17: Therapy Always Requires Looking Into Your Past 

It’s a myth about psychotherapy that it always requires delving into your past. While past experiences can be explored, it is always an option. Your psychotherapist will create a comfortable environment, allowing you to share only what you want, and focus on your present needs.

Myth 18: Therapy Should Avoid Looking Into the Past 

This is something that actually varies a lot, depending on the client’s issues and their roots, the approach of the therapist, the amount of time available, what the client wants to do, etc. There is no one-size-fits-all rule here.

Myth 19: Nobody Needs Therapy

Many individuals can benefit from the support psychotherapy offers at various points in their lives. Seeking therapy is a personal and proactive choice for managing challenges and enhancing overall mental well-being, not an indication of weakness.

Myth 20: Everybody Should Do Therapy

Once again, as is often the case with myths and vague notions, neither extreme is true.

Many people may find themselves in a position at some point in their life when they could benefit from the kind of help that counselling or psychotherapy can offer. Some may never feel the need; others may decide that it suits them to make regular therapy an ongoing support in their life.

There is nothing wrong with needing counselling or psychotherapy.

How to Choose the Right Therapist in Singapore

Choosing the right psychotherapist in Singapore is a key step towards getting support. However, given the nuanced regulatory landscape, it is vital to check credentials carefully. 

So, look for a Master’s level qualification in mental health counselling or psychology, paired with substantial supervised clinical experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on a sense of trust, comfort, and the therapist’s demonstrated experience, rather than simply a title. 

Consider scheduling an initial consultation with All in the Family Counselling to assess compatibility and collaboratively define your therapy goals.

When Should You Consider Counselling or Psychotherapy?

You might consider engaging in counselling or psychotherapy when facing persistent challenges such as depression, anxiety, trauma, or grief. You can also seek couples therapy to address relationship stress or even counselling for cheating spouses. However, these services are not exclusively for “serious” concerns. 

Counselling, including online therapy services, can be a valuable resource for personal growth, gaining clarity, and enhancing self-awareness. It is perfectly acceptable to seek support, even if your problems seem minor or you simply wish to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Some psychotherapists even provide baby sleep training solutions to help parents get enough rest and protect their mental well-being.

Ultimately, taking this proactive step can lead to significant improvements in your overall mental well-being and life satisfaction.

Start Your Therapy Journey Today 

Ready to take the next step towards enhanced well-being? We encourage you to schedule an initial consultation to collaboratively frame your goals and understand how therapy can support your journey. Therapy is a flexible and deeply personal process, offering valuable insights and support even in the short term. 

Whether you are looking for a family therapist or an expat counsellor who understands diverse backgrounds, our approach is tailored to your unique needs. 

Contact All in the Family Counselling today to schedule an appointment.