Debunking the Top 3 Psychotherapeutic Counselling Myths in the UK

By Maxine Marshall MNCPS (Acc) | 28/07/2025

When it comes to seeking counselling or psychotherapy, many people in the UK still hesitate—often because of long-standing myths and misunderstandings. Despite the growing mental health awareness movement and increased accessibility to services like the NHS, private therapists, and online counselling platforms, stigma and misinformation continue to create barriers for those who could truly benefit.

In this blog post, we’re taking a deep dive into the top 3 myths about psychotherapeutic counselling that continue to circulate, and we’re setting the record straight. Whether you’re considering therapy for yourself, a loved one, or simply want to be more informed, this guide will help you separate fact from fiction.

Myth #1: "Therapy is Only for People with Serious Mental Illness"

The Truth: Therapy Is for Everyone, Not Just for Diagnosed Conditions

One of the most persistent myths in the UK (and globally) is that counselling is only appropriate for individuals with diagnosed mental health disorders such as depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder. While it's true that psychotherapy is an essential support for people with serious mental health conditions, the idea that therapy is only for them is misleading and harmful.

Why This Myth Persists

Much of this misunderstanding stems from outdated ideas about what therapy is and who it's for. Historically, therapy was portrayed in media as something reserved for those in crisis or people deemed "unstable." Add to that a lingering stigma around mental health in the UK—particularly among older generations—and it’s easy to see why this myth remains popular.

The Reality

Psychotherapeutic counselling offers tools for a wide range of everyday challenges, including:

• Relationship issues

• Workplace stress and burnout

• Grief and bereavement

• Low self-esteem or confidence issues

• Anxiety about life transitions (e.g., parenthood, retirement)

In the UK, many people now use therapy as a form of self-care or personal growth, even if they don’t have a formal diagnosis. Therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviours—no matter how "serious" or "mild" they might seem.

Tip: Searching for "therapy for stress UK" or "counselling for everyday issues" now brings up dozens of local and national providers. This shift reflects a growing understanding that mental health support is valuable for everyone.

Myth #2: "Therapists Just Sit There and Nod – They Don’t Actually Help"

The Truth: Therapists Use Evidence-Based Techniques Tailored to Your Needs

Another common misconception is that therapy involves little more than talking while a therapist silently nods and occasionally asks, “How does that make you feel?” This caricature, popularised by TV shows and movies, does a disservice to the diverse and dynamic world of modern counselling.

Why This Myth Persists

People who are unfamiliar with psychotherapy often expect instant results or "advice-giving," and may be disappointed when therapists don't offer quick fixes. Additionally, the variety of therapeutic approaches—CBT, person-centred therapy, psychodynamic, integrative, etc.—can be confusing without proper context.

The Reality

Qualified psychotherapists and counsellors in the UK (many registered with organisations like NCPS or BACP) are trained to use evidence-based interventions. This means they draw on scientifically supported methods tailored to individual goals.

Here are a few things UK therapists actually do:

• Help identify negative thinking patterns and replace them (e.g. through CBT)

• Assist in setting achievable goals for change

• Explore deep-rooted behavioural and emotional patterns

• Teach mindfulness and emotional regulation techniques

• Provide tools to manage panic attacks, phobias, or compulsions

In short, good therapists are highly trained professionals who use structured, ethical, and client-centred approaches to facilitate real progress.

Tip: If you search for “evidence-based therapy UK” or “what does a counsellor do?”, you’ll find NHS resources and NCPS/BACP-accredited therapists explaining what to expect in sessions.

Myth #3: "Talking to Friends or Family Is Just as Good as Talking to a Therapist"

The Truth: While Social Support Is Vital, Therapy Offers Something Unique

It’s often said that “a problem shared is a problem halved,” and while talking to trusted friends or family can be hugely comforting, equating this with professional therapy is a myth that needs unpacking.

Why This Myth Persists

British culture values emotional resilience and "getting on with it," which sometimes means leaning on personal relationships rather than seeking professional help. There's also a practical aspect—therapy can be costly, have waiting times, or feel inaccessible to some.

The Reality

Friends and family offer empathy, but they can’t always be impartial or equipped to help with deeper psychological issues. A professional therapist:

• Maintains confidentiality and non-judgement

• Is trained to spot patterns, triggers, and unhelpful thinking

• Avoids personal bias that loved ones might inadvertently bring

• Keeps the focus on you, rather than shifting the conversation

• Follows ethical frameworks and safeguarding protocols

Think of it this way: just as you wouldn’t expect a friend to fill in for your GP, it’s unfair to expect loved ones to provide the same kind of emotional and psychological support as a trained therapist.

Final Thoughts: Why These Myths Matter

Dispelling myths around counselling and psychotherapy in the UK isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s crucial for improving mental health outcomes. When people believe therapy is only for those in crisis, or that it’s ineffective, or no better than a chat with mates, they miss out on a resource that could genuinely improve their quality of life.

If you're in the UK and considering therapy, know this:

• You don't need to be in crisis to seek help

• Therapy is active, practical, and personalised

• Professional support can complement—not replace—social support

Counselling is for the worried, the confused, the stuck, the overwhelmed, the grieving, and the curious. In short, it’s for everyone.

UK-Specific Resources for Mental Health Support

To help UK readers take the next step, here are some trusted organisations and directories:

• NHS Talking Therapies (Free, self-referral): https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-a-psychological-therapies-service/

• NCPS(The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society)

• Mind UK (Advice and support)

• The Counselling Directory

• Psychology Today

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does therapy take in the UK?
A: It depends. NHS therapy often runs 6–12 sessions, while private therapy can be short-term or ongoing based on your goals.

Q: Is therapy confidential?
A: Yes. Therapists follow strict confidentiality guidelines, except in situations involving risk of harm.

Q: Can I get therapy for free in the UK?
A: Yes, via the NHS. You can self-refer to many services, though waiting times vary. Charities and community organisations also offer low-cost or free options.

Final Call to Action

Are you curious about what therapy could do for you? If you’ve been holding back because of outdated myths, now’s the time to challenge those beliefs. Therapy is not a luxury or a last resort—it’s a powerful tool for building resilience, gaining insight, and improving your mental well-being.

If you're in the UK, explore your options today. The support you need might be more accessible than you think.