Therapy Demystified: 12 Things Everyone Should Know About Mental Health Support

3. Therapists Are Guides—Not Fixers

People sometimes avoid therapy because they believe it implies brokenness. But therapy is not about “fixing” people. It’s about being supported and guided by someone trained to help you navigate the mental and emotional terrain of your life.

As Dr. Sanz pointed out:

You don’t have to see a mental health person all the time… You go in when you need the assistance.

You wouldn’t hesitate to ask a lawyer about a legal issue or a mechanic about a car problem. Therapy is simply seeking expert guidance about emotional and psychological challenges.

4. The Stigma Around Therapy Is Rooted in Misunderstanding

For generations, mental health was viewed through a lens of shame and secrecy. Families often discouraged open conversations, instead opting for silence or denial.

As Dr. Sanz added:

Mental health has always been seen as invisible. Maybe because it happens behind closed doors, people don’t know how it gets fixed.

By talking more openly about therapy and showing that it’s not just for moments of crisis, we help reduce the stigma and open the door for others to seek support.

5. Therapy Can Help You Prepare for Hard Times—Not Just React to Them

Rather than waiting until her grief became overwhelming, Terry described seeking therapy in anticipation of her mother’s passing. This proactive step allowed her to build emotional resilience before the loss occurred.

As Terry explained:

I tried to get ahead of it. Not waiting for it to take me out or down.

Therapy can serve as emotional preparation, just like a tune-up before a long road trip. It doesn’t mean you’re weak—it means you’re wise.

6. Not Every Therapist Is the Right Fit—And That’s Okay

Choosing a therapist can feel daunting, especially if your first experience isn’t a match. But as with any relationship, compatibility matters.

Key ways to evaluate a therapist before committing:

• Read their bios and treatment philosophies
• Request a 15-minute consultation call
• Ask scenario-based questions like: “How would you help someone with long-term depression?”

As Dr. Sanz emphasized:

This is not a one-and-done. All therapists are unique.

If one doesn’t feel like the right fit, keep looking. The right support is worth finding.

7. You Don’t Need to Have All the Answers Before You Start

It’s okay to walk into therapy feeling confused or overwhelmed. You’re not expected to have your emotions sorted out beforehand—that’s the therapist’s job to help you explore.

As Dr. Sanz reassured:

I actually think that’s completely and totally acceptable if that’s the truth. Say: ‘This is all I know. I’m stuck. And I’m counting on you to help me figure it out.’

You don’t need a formal diagnosis or a complete narrative. You just need the willingness to begin.

8. You Can (and Should) Ask for the Kind of Support You Need

Therapists have different styles—some are more validating, while others are more directive. Knowing what you want (and need) helps you get more out of the process.

You can ask:

• “Do you challenge clients or focus more on listening?”
• “What’s your approach to accountability?”
• “Can I share feedback with you?”

As Dr. Sanz encouraged:

Be brutally honest with your therapist… You’re supposed to be able to say: ‘This isn’t working. Can you refer me to someone else?’

Being clear about your expectations builds a stronger, more effective therapeutic relationship.

9. Therapy Isn’t Forever Unless You Want It to Be

Another common misconception is that once you start therapy, you’re locked in indefinitely. But therapy is not a life sentence.

As Dr. Sanz explained:

You and your therapist should be talking about: Where are we? How far have we come? And have we done what you wanted?

Some people find a few sessions sufficient, while others may benefit from longer-term support. What matters is what’s helpful to you.

10. It’s Safe to Talk About Suicidal Thoughts—But Ask How They’ll Respond First

People often fear being hospitalized or judged for talking about suicidal thoughts. Dr. Sanz recommends having these conversations early in therapy, before a crisis occurs.

As Dr. Sanz advised:

Ask them: ‘If a client tells you X, what would your professional responsibility be?’ Then you know what you’re dealing with.

Knowing how your therapist would respond helps build trust—and could be life-saving if those thoughts ever emerge.

11. Therapy Only Works If You Work It

One of the biggest myths about therapy is that it’s passive—you show up, talk, and feel better. In reality, real progress comes from what happens between sessions.

As Dr. Sanz put it:

The therapist can provide education, tools, and support. But they don’t have any control over what you do outside the session. That’s all you.

Homework, journaling, reflection, and practice are all essential elements of the healing journey. It’s not about perfection—it’s about participation.

12. Even Insightful People Can Get Stuck—And Therapy Can Help

A listener voiced frustration over being stuck despite years of introspection. Dr. Sanz emphasized that understanding alone isn’t always enough. The brain needs retraining.

As Dr. Sanz clarified:

Neurons that fire together wire together. If we think the same thought pattern over and over, the brain follows the path of least resistance.

Through therapy and neuroplasticity, even entrenched thought patterns can shift. Change is not only possible—it’s scientific.

Final Thought: Therapy Is a Tool, Not a Failing

Mental health is complex, and everyone’s journey is different. But one universal truth remains: seeking therapy is an act of strength. It’s not a sign that you’re weak—it’s evidence that you’re brave enough to want something better for yourself.

As Terry and Dr. Sanz both emphasize, the decision to reach out for support is often the most important one you can make. Therapy offers a space to be seen, heard, and supported by someone who isn’t there to judge you, but to walk with you through the hardest parts.

You don’t have to go it alone. And you don’t have to wait until you’re barely holding on. Therapy is for every season of life—whether you’re struggling with grief, navigating relationships, or just want to know yourself better.

So take the step. Schedule the consult. Speak the truth. You deserve the kind of care that doesn’t just help you survive—but allows you to thrive.

Key Takeaways: What to Remember About Therapy

• Therapy is a proactive, not reactive, choice. You don’t have to hit rock bottom to seek help.
• You don’t need to have everything figured out. Just showing up is enough to start.
• Finding the right therapist may take time. That’s normal. Don’t give up after one try.
• Your therapist works for you. Be honest about what’s working and what’s not.
• Stigma is powerful—but not permanent. Sharing your story helps others too.
• Therapy is collaborative. The real work happens between sessions.
• Even insightful people get stuck. That’s why therapy helps rewire old patterns.
• You’re not alone. And you never were.

Therapy is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your well-being. And the truth is, everyone could benefit from it.