Adult Therapy – What To Expect


Because therapy can sometimes have a negative stigma, our goal is to shed light on the facts rather than perpetuate the myths. Let’s take a look at a few common misconceptions.

Myth #1 – “I’m weak if I need therapy.”

Truth – Actually, it’s the opposite. It takes genuine effort to examine ourselves, why we act the way we do, what we’d like to change and then actually implementing changes. The overall goal of any type of therapy is to help clients become better versions of themselves.

Myth #2 – “I tried therapy once and didn’t like it. They’re all the same so I don’t want to try again.”

Truth – All therapy is not the same. Therapists are trained differently and have varying perspectives, personalities and focal points. If you don’t think your therapist is a good match for you, or that you’re not receiving the help you need, that’s okay. Communicate this and they will make a referral to a new therapist or try a different approach to best suit your needs.

Myth #3 – “The therapist will make me leave my abusive partner, or strongly encourage me to do so.”

Truth – Your therapist is there to support you and what you are ready to do. If you’re not sure if you want to leave the relationship, that’s no problem. If you want to talk about how it may look to leave, but don’t want to feel pressured to decide today, that’s exactly what your therapist should provide for you. Ethically, therapists cannot impose perspectives (thoughts about what a client should or should not do) on a client. In many abusive relationships, it may not be safe to leave.

Myth #4 – “I can’t afford therapy.”

TruthMost insurance companies offer 6-12 sessions; some offer unlimited sessions. You may have a copay, but in most cases you can apply for financial assistance. Many agencies also offer sliding fee scales based on income level for those who have to pay 100% out of pocket.

Myth #5 – “I can’t go to therapy because I have kids and no one can watch them.”

TruthAt The Center for Family Safety and Healing (TCFSH), we have volunteers who are willing to watch your kids in our playroom while you’re taking care of you. Inform your therapist that you will be bringing your kid(s) and they will arrange for a volunteer to be present. Therapy sessions vary in time. For an initial diagnostic assessment, it can take anywhere from 50 minutes to two hours because the therapist will look at all aspects of life. Sessions following are typically 40-50 minutes.

If you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, please encourage them to call TCFSH at 614-722-8293 to discuss options like counseling, safety planning and next steps.

Share

Leave a Response

Be the first to leave a response to “Adult Therapy – What To Expect”