Updated: Nov 8, 2021
When we think about the word therapy, there are preconceived notions about what therapy entails and why people seek therapy. The TV series Billions, which follows the lives of hedge fund managers, shed new light on therapy - showcasing how many Wall Street and Fortune 500 companies have in-house therapists to help their sales force achieve incredible success… turning many negative perceptions of therapy on their head.
In this blogpost, we take a look at some common myths about therapy, which when busted, may actually encourage you to seek help.
Fact: Therapy is for anyone who feels like they could do with some support to better themselves. Maybe you’re newly married and you think that you and your partner could do with some support to achieve a successful life together. Or perhaps you’re having an off-year at work, and you need some coaching to get back on track.
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Seeking support, no matter what your circumstances, shows your bravery in taking action. And often, you don’t have to wait until you are struggling in order to seek therapy. Wherever you are on your mental health journey, therapy can provide you with the tools you need to thrive and find success in areas that are important to you.
Fact: Your family and friends are great sources of support, and it is always good to have an open line of communication with your loved ones about what’s going on in your life as well as how you’re feeling.
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Therapists, however, are trained professionals who can help you understand complex emotions and to notice patterns between your thoughts and behaviours. It also helps to get the perspective of someone who isn’t too closely related to you, so that they can help you objectively. There may also be scenarios where you prefer the privacy of a therapist, when talking about aspects of your life that may be too raw for you to share with those nearest and dearest to you.
Fact: This is untrue. A therapist is someone whom you engage in talk therapy with. They’re there to help you navigate your feelings, emotions and challenges through discussion, meditation and other non-medical means.
There may be scenarios where your mental health needs may require dual therapies - both psychiatrist-prescribed medication for short term support, while maintaining continuous therapy/counselling.
Fact: Today, as people become more aware of the importance of mental wellbeing, access to affordable therapy services have increased through public, private and nonprofit initiatives.
This has enabled people to tend to the wellness of their mind in a more proactive and sustainable way.
At ThoughtFullChat, a month of coaching comes down to about RM 6 a day - that’s half the price of a small latte at Starbucks, and well worth the small investment!
Fact: Just as lawyers and doctors are bound by confidentiality laws, so are therapists.
What happens in therapy, stays in therapy. This means that you can and should speak to your therapist freely without fear of having the contents of your sessions shared with others. By law, your therapist is not allowed to disclose your private information without your permission.
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