Counselling is a really effective way for many people to deal with mental health issues, or issues that are affecting their happiness. However, there are some myths around counselling and some ‘tropes’ that are used when counselling/therapy is portrayed on the television.

Myth 1: You have to have a diagnosed mental health issue to need counselling.

Counselling can help with diagnosed mental health issues, but most people use counselling just to help them through difficult patches and they won’t have an actual diagnosed mental health issue.

Myth 2: I’m not going to be able to talk about my problems to a stranger.

Your counsellor isn’t some random person off the street that you just start talking to so try not to think of it that way. They are professionally trained to build relationships and help you talk about the issues that are concerning you. Also, it’s very refreshing talking to someone with no prior knowledge of you or the situation. It’s fresh eyes without any judgement.

Myth 3: Counselling is a sign of weakness, I should be able to deal with my problems on my own.

I always think that it’s a sign of strength to recognise that you need some help managing your mental wellbeing. You wouldn’t think twice of going to hospital with a broken leg. No one ever says ‘oh the leg will heal on it’s own, it’s a weakness to see a doctor’. It’s the same with your mental health. Seeing a specialist is a sign of wisdom.

Myth 4: My counsellor will think I’m stupid for having these issues.

Absolutely not! All counsellors are trained to have something called Unconditional Positive Regard. This means they do not make any judgements about what they are told, they have professional concern and want to help you be happier. It’s likely that you’re not telling them something that they haven’t heard before as you won’t be alone in having those feelings. Counsellors don’t go into the profession to judge. They go into the profession to help.

Myth 5: I will have to lie on a couch.

You won’t have to lie on a couch with the counsellor sat behind you. You’ll be sat in a comfortable chair in a quiet, peaceful room.

Hopefully we’ve been able to dispel some of the myths around counselling and make it more likely you will use it in the future. Remember, you don’t have to commit forever, just give it a go and see if it works for you!