5 myths about psychotherapy that hinder the journey to oneself

There are still many stereotypes about psychotherapy. Because of them, people postpone visits to the psychologist and lose months or years, continuing to suffer. Let's examine the most popular myths.

Why Myths Arise

According to the World Health Organization, one in eight people in the world lives with a mental disorder. However, only a portion of people seek help. In Eastern Europe and the Baltic States, according to Eurostat studies, less than 12% of the population has ever seen a psychologist, while in Western Europe this figure is twice as high.
The main reason is prejudice and a lack of information.

Myth 1. “Only mentally ill people go to a psychologist”

In fact, psychotherapy is not just about illnesses.

• Most clients come with questions of self-esteem, stress, burnout, relationship crisis.

• In the USA, according to APA, about 42% of people see a psychologist at least once in their lives, and it is not related to diagnoses.

• Psychotherapy is a form of prevention, not a sign of “weakness”.

Myth 2. “It is very expensive and inaccessible”

Yes, long-term therapy can be costly. But:

• In EU countries, the average cost of an individual session is 40–80 euros, depending on the specialist.

• Many companies cover part of the consultations for employees as part of mental health care programs.

• Online therapy reduces the cost by 20–30%.

Conclusion: psychotherapy requires investment, but it is comparable to regular expenses on fitness, courses, or leisure.

Myth 3. “One meeting is enough for everything to change”

There are no miraculous solutions.

• On average, according to the British Association for Psychotherapy, noticeable changes occur by the 6th–8th session.

• Deep work may require several months to a year.

• Even short-term therapy (8–12 meetings) helps 60–70% of clients reduce anxiety levels.

Myth 4. “The psychologist will give advice and judge”

No one “gives lectures” during the consultation.

• The psychologist helps explore inner processes and find one's own solutions.

• Confidentiality protects the client from judgment.

• Many note that they felt for the first time the “right to be heard”.

Myth 5. “Psychotherapy does not yield real results”

Research indicates the opposite:

• According to a meta-analysis by Johns Hopkins University, 75% of clients experience noticeable improvement from psychotherapy.

• Depression and anxiety levels decrease by 40–50% after systematic work.

• The effect is comparable to medication treatment, and sometimes greater in mild and moderate cases.

What is important to remember

• Psychotherapy is a process, not magic.

• Myths often keep people on the sidelines, although help could significantly improve their lives.

• The first step is to try one meeting and evaluate the experience yourself.