7 Common Myths About Therapy: Insights from a Therapist in Denver

As a therapist in Denver specializing in art therapy, trauma therapy, and attachment-based therapy for women and postpartum moms, I’ve heard all the therapy myths! Over the years, I’ve heard so many misconceptions about what therapy is and how it works. These myths can make the idea of seeking help feel intimidating or even unnecessary. But here’s the thing—therapy isn’t just for people going through the most extreme challenges. It’s a space for anyone looking to grow, heal, or find clarity.

In this blog, I will debunk some of the most common myths about therapy, especially ones that might hold you back from getting the support you deserve. Let’s dive in and see how therapy can be a practical, empowering step for your mental and emotional health.

Collage image with post-it note overlay stating blog post title, “7 Common Myths About Therapy: Insights from a Therapist in Denver.”

Myth 1: Therapy is Only for Serious Mental Health Issues

Sure, therapy can be life-changing for people dealing with severe mental health struggles like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. But here’s the truth: working with a therapist in Denver can also help with the everyday ups and downs we all face as human beings. Whether it’s managing daily stress, working toward personal goals, or simply improving your overall quality of life, therapy offers a safe space to explore what’s going on and discover tools that truly help.

And therapy doesn’t look the same for everyone. Every therapist brings a unique style, and different approaches work better for different challenges. For example, art therapy can be a gentle and creative entry point, especially if talking feels overwhelming. Through art, you can express feelings and experiences that are difficult to put into words. It’s about finding the right approach—and the right therapist in Denver—who fits your needs.

Myth 2: Therapists Just Sit and Listen Without Offering Solutions

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Gone are the days of clients lying on a couch, talking endlessly while their therapist just nods along. Therapy today is an active and collaborative experience where both the client and therapist work together to create meaningful progress.

When you work with a therapist in Denver, you’ll find that therapy goes beyond just listening. While reflective listening is a common technique—where your therapist reflects back what they’ve heard to validate your feelings—it’s just the starting point. Your therapist will provide you with practical tools to use both in and outside of sessions. For example, attachment-based therapy can help you understand patterns learned in your family of origin and guide you toward healthier ways of connecting in relationships. Therapy is about gaining insights and strategies that empower you to make positive changes in your life.

Myth 3: Therapists Are Supposed to Give Advice

Conversely to myth #2, it’s a common misconception that a therapist’s job is to give advice or tell you what to do. In reality, therapy is much more than that—it’s a space that’s all about you. Unlike a conversation with a family member or friend who might offer advice, a therapeutic relationship is free of strings attached or personal agendas.

A therapist in Denver isn’t there to make decisions for you but to help you explore your own insights and find the best path forward. They might offer suggestions or recommendations tailored to your unique struggles, but the ultimate goal is to empower you to make the choices that feel right for your life.

Myth 4: If I Go to Therapy, It Means I’m Weak

Let’s set the record straight—seeking therapy doesn’t make you weak. In fact, it’s a sign of strength to recognize when you need support and take steps to care for your mental health. As a therapist in Denver, I’ve worked with many high-achieving individuals who are used to handling everything on their own. Often, they don’t seek therapy until life starts to feel unmanageable.

But here’s the thing: humans are wired for connection and support. Think back to the early days of humanity. People lived in close-knit communities and leaned on each other to meet their needs, including emotional ones. Therapy is a modern way to access that kind of support. It takes courage to reach out in a society that often glorifies self-reliance. Prioritizing your wellbeing isn’t just brave—it’s essential.

Myth 5: Therapy Takes Years to See Results

While therapy does require time and commitment, many people start noticing changes right away. Sometimes, just having someone who truly listens and understands can help you feel less alone and more hopeful.

It’s also worth mentioning that the results often depend on your motivation and willingness to engage with the process. Small, consistent efforts can lead to significant, lasting changes over time. Modern therapeutic approaches, like art therapy and solution-focused therapy, are designed to offer breakthroughs within shorter timeframes. A skilled therapist in Denver can help you find strategies that work for you and fit your goals.

Myth 6: Therapy is Too Expensive

It’s true that therapy can feel like a big financial commitment, but it’s important to see it as an investment in your mental and emotional health. Just like you’d visit a doctor to care for your physical health, seeing a therapist in Denver is a way to prioritize your overall well-being. Therapy equips you with tools and skills that can benefit you for a lifetime, making it a long-term investment in your happiness and quality of life.

Plus, there are options to make therapy more affordable. Many therapists in Denver offer sliding scale fees based on income, accept insurance, or can guide you in using out-of-network benefits that might partially cover your sessions. Group therapy is another cost-effective option and can be particularly powerful when it’s tailored to your specific needs. Investing in therapy now can lead to significant improvements in your mental health and relationships down the road.

Myth 7: Going to Therapy Means I’ll be Talking About My Problems Forever

Being in therapy forever? That’s definitely not the plan! The goal of therapy is to help you grow, heal, and eventually thrive without needing regular sessions. It takes time to build trust with your therapist, figure out what approaches work best for you, and start seeing progress. But therapy isn’t meant to be a lifelong commitment—it’s a stepping stone to help you get where you want to be in life.

Different types of therapy can lead to different outcomes. For example, while talk therapy can be insightful, it sometimes doesn’t reach the deeper layers of what’s causing your struggles. That’s where art therapy comes in. As an art therapist in Denver, I’ve seen how artmaking can help clients connect with emotions and parts of themselves that are hard to access through words alone. By tapping into these deeper layers, we can often uncover the root of the issue more quickly and create meaningful, lasting change.

The myths about therapy can often create unnecessary hesitation, but understanding the truth can open the door to growth, healing, and empowerment. Therapy is a collaborative process that helps you explore your challenges, gain new perspectives, and create lasting change.

If you're ready to experience the benefits of therapy, let’s chat! As an art therapist in Denver, I specialize in helping moms and women navigate life’s challenges with creativity and compassion. Book a free consultation today to learn more.

Like this post? Be sure to check out other articles in our “How to Find a Therapist” series.