Debunking Common Myths About Mental Health Services in Montana: What You Need to Know
Navigating the world of mental health services in Montana can be overwhelming and confusing, especially if it’s completely new to you. Myths and misconceptions about what therapy is, what it entails, and who it is for, prevent people like you from receiving the support you deserve. Here we will debunk some of the most common myths, to provide you with a more accurate picture of what online therapy can offer- whether you are looking for support with daily stressors, relationships, past trauma, or simply living more authentically.
Myth 1: Therapy Is Only for People with Severe Mental Illness
A common misconception many people have about receiving mental health services in Montana is that services are reserved for those struggling with significant mental health conditions that extremely impact their daily lives. The reality is that almost everyone can benefit from going to therapy, as it can help with coping with everyday stressors, navigating challenging life experiences, improving relationships with loved ones, or understanding and expressing yourself more authentically.
Some therapeutic approaches that are effective for everyday issues include solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and attachment-based therapy. Solution-focused therapy helps clients identify and build upon strengths they already have, to address specific problems or goals, and create positive changes in their lives. Narrative therapy guides and assists clients in viewing their lives as stories, in a way that empowers them to identify and clarify their values and experiences. Lastly, attachment-based therapy is helpful for clients struggling in relationships to gain insight into how their past relationships and experiences have shaped their current experiences and perspectives on relationships.
Myth 2: Online Therapy in Montana Is Not as Effective as In-Person Therapy
One of the most common myths and concerns many people have surrounding online therapy is that it is not as effective or personal as in-person therapy. While many people have an assumption that face-to-face interactions are always superior, numerous research studies have concluded that online therapy can be just as effective as in-person treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, and identity exploration.
One of the most beneficial aspects of online therapy is the accessibility to treatment it provides, regardless of where you are. This is particularly beneficial for many individuals in Montana, where many of you live in rural areas far from mental health providers. The level of accessibility provided by online therapy also benefits those with physical limitations or busy schedules, as online therapy allows you to obtain support from the comfort of your own home or office, and allows for added flexibility so you receive consistent support.
As online therapy has become more common practice, more and more therapists are receiving special training to adapt their methods to online therapy, and many of the therapeutic techniques remain the same on and offline. Many clients report being able to build strong and trusting relationships with their therapists online, and you will find that the screen is not a barrier to empathy, personality, and consistency coming through in the relationship.
Myth 3: Trauma Therapy Is Too Intense and Will Make Things Worse
Many people believe that exploring and processing their trauma will be too overwhelming, and result in a worsening of their symptoms or “make it worse.” While trauma therapy does include addressing difficult experiences, it is designed to be done in a gradual, safe, and controlled process. Therapists are trained to ensure that you are equipped with the proper coping skills to manage the feelings that come up as you revisit painful memories, and you are always in control of setting the pace that feels manageable for you.
With trauma therapy, many clients experience varying levels of relief from their anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness. Trauma therapy helps clients learn and obtain healthier and more effective coping skills that replace less healthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use, isolation, or avoidance. Most importantly, there is an emphasis in trauma therapy to restore your sense of control over your own life, thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Myth 4: You Have to Talk About Everything in Therapy
Another common misconception many people have about therapy is that you have to divulge every detail of every aspect of your life, including the ones that are most private and painful. The reality is that therapy is largely a client-led process, and you are not obligated to share or discuss anything you are not ready or wanting to explore. Additionally, effective therapy relies on trust built between you and the therapist, which takes time. Therapists have an understanding that it can take time for you to feel comfortable opening up about sensitive topics, and will follow your lead as you identify areas of your life you want to explore and change. Your therapy journey is about you, and it can be effective even if you choose to only focus on specific areas or experiences.
If you have any questions about starting online therapy or mental health services in Montana, feel free to contact us for a free 15-minute phone consultation. We are here to learn about what it is you are struggling with and help direct you to the right person for help. If you are looking for help with depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment, or identity exploration, you can read more about how I can help here.
