What Therapy Really Looks Like: Busting Myths About What Happens in Sessions
There are so many myths floating around about therapy that it can feel intimidating to even consider reaching out to a therapist. Maybe you imagine lying on a couch while someone silently scribbles notes, or you assume therapy is only for people in deep crisis. But what if therapy is nothing like the myths you’ve heard? What if it’s actually a space for support, healing, growth, and self-discovery?
In this post, we’re busting some of the most common myths about therapy and shedding light on what really happens in a session.
1. Myth: Therapy is only for people in crisis.
Truth: While therapy is incredibly helpful during difficult times, you don’t have to wait until you’re falling apart to benefit. People come to therapy to work on communication skills, process life transitions, set goals, improve relationships, and gain insight about themselves. It’s a proactive tool for self-growth.
2. Myth: Therapists just sit there silently and judge you.
Truth: A good therapist is actively engaged in your story. They listen, reflect, ask meaningful questions, and offer insights. Therapy is a collaborative process, not a one-sided performance. It’s built on empathy, trust, and genuine human connection.
3. Myth: Therapy is all about your childhood.
Truth: Yes, the past may come up if it’s relevant, but many sessions are focused on the present. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, relationships, or decision-making, therapy often centers on what’s going on in your life right now.
4. Myth: The therapist gives advice and tells you what to do.
Truth: Unlike a friend or family member, a therapist helps you explore your own values and strengths to make empowered decisions. It’s less about giving advice and more about guiding you to understand your patterns and choose your path intentionally.
5. Myth: You’ll cry every time.
Truth: Therapy can be emotional, but it’s also filled with clarity, empowerment, growth, and even laughter. Sessions can be dynamic and varied. Sometimes they’re intense, and sometimes they’re calm and reflective. And that’s okay.
6. Myth: Therapy works instantly.
Truth: Therapy is a process. You’re unlearning, relearning, and digging deep. That takes time. Some sessions bring breakthroughs; others may feel subtle. But with consistency, change happens.
So what does therapy really look like?
It looks like showing up as you are, being met with compassion and curiosity, and working together with a trained professional to navigate the complexities of your mind and your life. There’s no right or wrong way to be in therapy, and there’s no script you have to follow.
Therapy is not about being fixed—because you are not broken. It’s about finding your voice, facing your fears, making meaning from your experiences, and building a life that feels more aligned.
If you’ve been considering therapy, know this: it’s a brave, powerful step toward yourself. And it might just be the beginning of something transformative.
Want to dive deeper into the therapy process? Stay tuned for future posts where we talk about how to choose a therapist, what your first session might be like, and how to get the most out of therapy.
