One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Do I need to be in crisis to go to therapy?”
Here’s our honest answer: Absolutely not.
If there’s one thing Debora and I have learned on our journey as psychologists—and countless conversations with new clients—it’s that myths about therapy prevent people from accessing real growth. In the spirit of honesty and practical wisdom we want to set the record straight.
Here are six myths that we have noticed over the years as a psychologists
MYTH 1: You need to be in a bad spot to go to therapy.
Truth: You just need to be human.
Therapy isn’t reserved for severe cases. If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, anxious, or just off — you’re not overreacting. You’re responding to life. And therapy can help you make sense of it.
Sometimes clients just need a safe space to grow awareness and take care of themselves. That’s enough.
MYTH 2: Therapy means digging up your childhood.
Therapy can go deep — but it doesn’t have to.
Many of our sessions are present-focused, actionable, and built around the client’s current goals. You set the tone. We meet you where you are.
Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all.
MYTH 3: Therapy takes forever.
It doesn’t.
Some of our clients come in for 4–6 sessions and walk away with tools that last for years. Others come back when life throws them something new.
Therapy is flexible — not a lifetime sentence.
You can come, build skills, take a break, and return when you need. It’s not all or nothing.
MYTH #4: The therapeutic approach matters most
Truth: The relationship with your therapist is at least 50% of what makes therapy work. You need someone you connect with, trust, and actually like. That 15-minute consultation call? It’s not just about credentials—it’s about fit.
MYTH #5: You’ll be forced to share everything
Truth: You’re in complete control of the content. We control the process and skills, but you decide what to share and when.
And yes, we’re always mindful that you need to be able to “put yourself back together” and re-enter your day after a session.
MYTH #6: Virtual therapy isn’t as effective
Truth: Both virtual and in-person have unique benefits. Virtual gives you the comfort of home and eliminates commute stress. In-person offers different energy. Many of our clients do a hybrid approach.
The key takeaway.
The best therapy is personalized, collaborative, and practical. Define your own success, move at your own pace, and don’t let outdated myths hold you back from investing in yourself.
Whether it’s about navigating relationships, regulating anxiety, or simply checking in with yourself — therapy is one of the most effective ways to care for your emotional health.
And you don’t have to earn it by breaking down first.
Want to know more or just talk? Reach out. Your story matters, no matter where you’re starting.
#mentalhealth #therapy
Navigating mental health concerns and life stressors can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Discover tailored therapy that provides actionable strategies to ease your anxiety and help you find balance. Take the first step—contact our Toronto psychology clinic today.
