Counseling services can help people overcome hardships in their lives. It can also help people cope with the symptoms of mental illnesses. Learning about common mistakes and misconceptions surrounding mental health care can help you make better decisions. Here are four mistakes that people make when it comes to counseling:
1. Assuming They Can't Afford It
Counseling is a vital mental health service. People with mental illnesses can frequently be helped through talk therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can retrain the brains of people with depression and anxiety, either alone or in combination with medication. However, some people avoid seeking counseling services because they assume those services are too expensive. While it's true that some therapists are expensive, many clinics offer sliding scale therapy sessions to patients in need. Before deciding that counseling is out of reach for you, do your research. Find counseling clinics in your area and call them to discuss their rates.
2. Holding Things Back
During counseling, you will need to dig deep to reach the most honest truths about yourself. This can be an uncomfortable process, especially for people who value their privacy highly. Counseling is a confidential process. You'll never have to worry about your counselor sharing anything you say in session. However, you may still find yourself holding back out of fear of judgment. It's important to be brave and bold in counseling. Telling your counselor your deepest thoughts and fears will allow them to help you effectively. When you're able to hold nothing back, you'll get the most benefit from therapy.
3. Sticking With A Counselor Who's A Bad Fit
It takes time to get comfortable with a new counselor, so you shouldn't feel discouraged if you don't feel a connection right away. However, every person is unique, and so is every counselor. If you've been seeing the same counselor for months and don't feel like you're making progress, it's possible that you're not seeing the right counselor. Every counselor has their own philosophy and preferred techniques. You may need to try different counselors before you find one who works for you.
4. Being Afraid To Try Medication
Some people think that psychiatric medication will completely change their personalities or make them different people. In reality, mental health drugs are nothing more than tools. Your counselor may suggest adding medication to your health care regimen if they believe it will help. Taking medication doesn't have to be a big deal. You should try to keep an open mind to anything your counselor suggests.
