DEBUNKING THE STIGMAS ABOUT COUNSELLING

By: Family TLC

Myth #1Only Crazy People go to CounsellingIt is a lie that only people with extreme personality disorders go to counseling. Therapists most commonly deal with people going through difficult life transitions, like divorce, health challenges, relocation, work stress, and family/parenting issues.

Myth #2You are WeakIt is thought to be ‘tough’ if one deals with their own problems in silence and does not bother others with their struggles. This once popular stigma was very detrimental, most clearly seen with the large number of veterans who dealt with many of their problems and stress by turning to alcohol and drugs in an attempt to numb their pain. With counselling many would have been diagnosed with PTSD and assisted in transitioning back to home life. There is nothing weak about asking for help.

Myth #3There are no benefits in talking about my problemsTalking about what is troubling you can act as a form of cathartic release, allowing you to eventually feel less burdened by your troubles, and even lower stress.

Myth #4It could be used against meIndividuals that are going through legal battles such as divorce, custody, lawsuits, ect, may be fearful that if it is brought to the attention of the judge that they are in therapy it could be seen as detrimental to their case. However in most cases, if an individual is proven to be in counselling it shows the judge that you are actively participating in your wellness and self-improvement.

Myth #5Everyone will knowIf you are concerned about anonymity, therapy clinics are very respectful of this. You can contact them with this request and all further contact can be done so discreetly depending on your specific concerns. Privacy is of the utmost important to therapists, and your conversations are not shared with anyone, unless given permission by the client.

Conclusion You should never feel ashamed of seeking help no matter how little or big the problem may seem. At Family TLC we have knowledgeable and professional staff that can help you with any of life’s challenges, and emerge from them more confident and calm. Check out our online resources for more information. www.familytlc.caCall: 705-737-3513Email: clientservices@familytlc.caLink to the “Debunking the Stigmas About Counselling” blog https://www.familytlc.ca/debunking-the-stigmas-about-counselling/