Therapy Myths Busted: What You Actually Need to Know About Getting Help

Stop believing everything you’ve heard about therapy!

You’ve probably gotten most of your therapy knowledge from TikTok, movies, or that one friend who “tried it once.” Here’s the reality: most of what you think you know about therapy is probably wrong. Let’s clear up the biggest myths that might be keeping you from getting the support you actually need.

Myth #1: “Therapy is just paying someone to listen to you complain”

The reality: Good therapy is way more active than that. In CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), we’re literally rewiring how your brain processes situations. You’ll learn specific techniques to catch negative thought spirals before they take over your whole day. In DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), you’ll get actual skills for managing intense emotions and improving relationships. EMDR helps process traumatic experiences that keep replaying in your mind.

This isn’t venting to a friend. It’s skill building with someone trained to help you level up your mental health game.

Myth #2: “You have to be ‘broken’ or in crisis to go to therapy

The reality:  Most of my clients are functioning young adults who just want to feel better and handle life more effectively. Maybe you’re stressed about your career, struggling with relationships, or feeling anxious about the future - especially with the state of the world. These are normal human experiences that therapy can absolutely help with.

Think of therapy like going to the gym for your mind. You don’t wait until you’re completely out of shape to start working out, right?

Myth #3: “Therapy takes forever and you’ll become dependent on it”

The reality: CBT and DBT are specifically designed to give you tools you can use on your own. Most young adults see significant improvement within a few months. The goal is always to help you become your own therapist eventually.

Some people do long term therapy because they find it valuable, but that’s a choice, not a requirement. Many of my clients graduate from therapy feeling more confident and equipped to handle whatever life throws at them.

Myth #4: “Therapists will judge you or think you’re weird”

The reality: We literally went to school to understand human behavior and mental health. Nothing you say will shock us. We’ve heard it all, and our job is to help, never judge. And because our sessions are virtually, you can feel judgment free. Everything you share is completely confidential. Your therapist can’t tell anyone what you discuss unless you’re in immediate danger.

Myth #5: “Therapy is just for people who can’t handle their problems”

The reality: Seeking therapy and online virtual therapy from a licensed certified therapist or doctor actually shows emotional intelligence and self awareness. It takes strength to admit you want support and take action to improve your life.

Some of the most successful, resilient people I know have done therapy. It’s a tool for growth, not a sign of weakness.

What does therapy look like? 

First session: We talk about what brought you in and what you want to work on. No deep trauma diving on day one.

Regular sessions: We work on specific goals using proven techniques. You’ll practice new skills and get homework (but the fun kind that actually helps).

Your pace: You control how fast or slow we go. Feeling overwhelmed? We slow down. Ready to tackle bigger challenges? Let’s go.


Your generation is dealing with challenges that previous generations didn’t face. Social media pressure, economic uncertainty, climate anxiety, political division. These are real stressors that deserve real support.

Therapy isn’t about fixing what’s wrong with you. It’s about building skills to navigate a complex world while maintaining your mental health and relationships.

Are You Ready to try online virtual therapy?

If you’re curious about therapy, start with a consultation call. Most therapists offer a short consultation call to see if you both are a good fit for one another. 

At Healing Hearts Healthy Minds, I specialize in working with young adults using CBT, DBT, and EMDR techniques. If you’re ready to invest in your mental health and build skills that will serve you for life, I’d love to help you get started.