This post is a companion to our show Beyond the Session, the podcast where your therapist is in your pocket. Hosted by Reset Counseling and Psychotherapy in Barrie—formerly known as Lindsay Tsang and Associates—our mission is to make therapy more accessible, addressing one myth at a time. Today, we’re diving into some of the most persistent misconceptions about mental health with registered psychotherapists Jessica Capra and Andi Atkins.

Breaking the “Not Bad Enough” Myth

One of the most common misconceptions about therapy is that it’s only for people experiencing severe mental illness. Andi shared an eye-opening perspective:

“A lot of people worry they’re not doing ‘bad enough’ to seek therapy. They feel they need to have a severe diagnosis or be struggling significantly in daily life. But therapy is for everyone, no matter where you’re at.”

Therapy isn’t about reaching a crisis point; it’s about enhancing your well-being. Maybe you’re navigating a specific goal, grappling with a tough decision, or simply need a safe space to process your thoughts. Andi emphasized that therapy can be as valuable for someone thriving in many areas of life as it is for someone managing more complex challenges.

Many clients feel hesitant to seek help because they believe their struggles are insignificant compared to others. Andi explained how this mindset can be limiting:

“I often hear people say, ‘I have a great family, a roof over my head, and food to eat. I don’t think I have the right to complain.’ While it’s wonderful to practice gratitude, it’s equally important to acknowledge and validate your struggles. Everyone’s challenges are unique and deserving of care.”

Therapy meets you where you are, allowing you to explore your feelings and experiences without judgment or comparison.

Overcoming Barriers to Therapy

Barriers to seeking therapy often stem from misconceptions or fears about the therapeutic process. Jessica and Andi discussed how creating a safe, welcoming environment for therapy can make a world of difference.

Jessica explained:

“Transparency is key. Therapists are human, and many of us chose this field for personal reasons. Building rapport from the outset and fostering a safe environment begins with clear, direct communication.”

Here are some strategies Jessica employs to create a safe space for clients:

• Permission to Choose: “Right from the start, I tell clients they have the power to choose what they share. While therapy is about sharing, the timing and depth are entirely up to them.”
• Adapting to Needs: For clients with specific challenges, such as ADHD or learning disabilities, Jessica ensures the environment accommodates their needs.
• Feedback as a Cornerstone: Regularly asking for feedback helps tailor the therapy experience to the client’s goals and expectations.
• Non-Judgmental Stance: From language to body posture, creating a neutral and accepting atmosphere encourages openness and trust.

Andi echoed the importance of informed consent:

“Informed consent isn’t a one-time event. It’s an ongoing conversation that ensures clients feel comfortable and in control. Therapy isn’t about pushing people to reveal more than they’re ready for.”

Building the Client-Therapist Relationship

One of the most significant aspects of therapy is the relationship between the client and therapist. For clients hesitant about opening up, Andi highlighted the importance of pacing:

“It’s understandable that some clients want to build a relationship before diving into deeper topics. From a scientific perspective, especially with trauma, establishing trust is crucial before addressing painful experiences.”

At Reset Counseling our therapists prioritize creating an environment where clients feel safe to navigate their journey at their own pace. Jessica added:

“Clients are the experts of their own lives. Our role is to support and empower them, not dictate the direction of their healing.”

Therapy as a Tool for Everyone

Whether you’re managing significant challenges or simply seeking a sounding board, therapy can be a transformative tool. It’s about meeting you where you are and helping you move forward, one step at a time. As Jessica and Andi reminded us, therapy is not about being “sick enough” or having all the answers—it’s about showing up for yourself.

At Reset Counseling and Psychotherapy, we’re here to support you in creating the life you want, free of judgment and full of possibility. So, what’s holding you back? 

Photo by Katrina Berban on Unsplash