Why It's So Hard to See a Psychologist: 8 Reasons

Contents:

• Simply scared
• Not accepted
• Confused psychologists with psychiatrists and afraid of being sent to a mental hospital
• Believed that they definitely don't need a psychologist
• Afraid to hear the truth
• Expensive
• Afraid of running into a charlatan
• Believed that talking to a friend will have the same effect

In 2022, VTsIOM conducted a study on Russians' need for psychological help and support. The results showed a noticeable increase in requests for professional psychological help: 12% of respondents in 2022 compared to 6% in 2009. Moreover, 87% of respondents had never consulted a psychologist. These data highlight the importance of raising awareness of psychological support options and the need to eliminate the stigma associated with seeking help.

We spoke with Gestalt therapist Tatyana Shcheglova about the reasons why people avoid seeing psychologists. She shared her observations and opinion on the factors that prevent people from seeking professional help. She noted that many experience fear, shame, or doubts about the effectiveness of therapy. There is also often a lack of information about how the consultation process works and the benefits of working with a psychologist. Understanding these obstacles can help remove barriers and encourage people to seek support during difficult times in their lives.

It's Just Scary

Many people still experience fear of visiting psychologists. This fear is often unrelated to the professionals themselves, but stems from a fear of opening up and sharing one's inner experiences and problems. Most people are unaccustomed to talking about their emotions and vulnerabilities, making the process of seeking help difficult. Understanding this situation is important for reducing barriers to psychotherapy and improving mental health.

According to a study by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM), 68% of people prefer to cope with psychological problems on their own and do not feel the need to share their experiences with loved ones, even during times of extreme stress. This indicates that many people prefer to hide their emotions and do not seek support from others.

A Gestalt therapist is a specialist working in the field of psychotherapy, using the Gestalt therapy approach. This method is aimed at awareness of the current moment and the study of the client's feelings, thoughts, and behavior. Gestalt therapy helps people better understand their experiences and interactions with the world around them, promoting personal growth and development. Gestalt therapists create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions and find solutions to their problems. This approach is valuable for improving self-awareness and enhancing quality of life, allowing people to learn to accept themselves and their actions. By turning to a Gestalt therapist, you can receive professional help in overcoming internal conflicts and improving your emotional state.

People often hide their emotions and experiences, relying on various defense mechanisms. People often turn to a psychologist only in times of crisis, when problems become unbearable and affect all areas of life. It is important to realize that regular work with a psychologist can help not only during difficult times but also in everyday life, promoting a better understanding of yourself and your emotions.

When I myself needed the help of a psychologist, I was going through a difficult relationship with my husband, and then a divorce. Despite this, I did not seek help from a specialist. As a psychology student, I knew that all the qualified specialists in my city had left for Moscow. I was terrified to open up to a psychologist I didn't know. Online consultations didn't exist back then, which made the situation even more difficult.

A Gestalt therapist is a specialist who helps people become aware of their feelings, thoughts, and behavior in the present moment. The Gestalt therapy method is based on the idea that an important aspect of mental health is the ability to be in contact with oneself and the world around us. A Gestalt therapist creates a safe space for clients, allowing them to explore their experiences and recognize how they impact their lives. Working with a Gestalt therapist can help address a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, interpersonal difficulties, and other emotional challenges. The therapist uses a variety of techniques, including dialogue, role-playing, and creative methods, to help the client better understand themselves and their needs. An important part of Gestalt therapy is its emphasis on the present moment, which allows the client to recognize their feelings and reactions in the current situation. This promotes the development of personal responsibility and improved self-regulation skills. Gestalt therapy is suitable for people seeking a deep understanding of their emotions and wanting to establish harmonious relationships with themselves and others. People often hide their experiences and emotions using various defense mechanisms. People turn to a psychologist mainly in crisis situations, when problems become unbearable and encompass all areas of life. Understanding the importance of emotional health and timely help from a specialist can prevent serious consequences and improve overall well-being.

When I myself needed the help of a psychologist, I was going through a difficult relationship with my husband, and then a divorce. However, I did not seek help from a specialist. While studying psychology, I realized that all the qualified specialists from my city had left for Moscow. I was afraid to share my experiences with an unfamiliar psychologist. At that time, in the 2000s, online consultations did not yet exist, which further complicated the situation.

Not accepted

Psychology in Russia began to develop in the early 20th century, thanks to the outstanding doctors Vladimir Bekhterev and Ivan Sechenov. This period was a time of active development in psychology, which continued until the 1930s, when many psychologists became victims of political repression. These events had a significant impact on the further development of psychology in the country, leading to changes in scientific approaches and methods in the field in the following decades.

From the 1960s to the 1980s, Soviet psychology experienced a revival, reflected in active research and the teaching of the discipline at pedagogical universities. However, psychologists were trained only in Moscow and Leningrad, and graduates had no opportunity to engage in practical work. At that time, there were no psychology specialists working in schools, medical institutions, or organizations. Practical psychology only began to actively develop in the 1990s, marking an important step toward integrating psychological knowledge into various areas of society.

In our country, the culture of seeking psychological help is still in its infancy. When a toothache occurs, most people go to the dentist without hesitation. However, when it comes to emotional discomfort, the desire to see a psychologist is often accompanied by a fear of judgment or stereotypes about abnormality. This prevents many people from seeking the help and support they need. It's important to understand that caring for your mental health is just as important as caring for your physical well-being. Openly discussing issues related to emotional well-being can help reduce stigma and encourage greater use of professionals in this field.

Tatiana Scheglova is a professional expert in her field. She possesses deep knowledge and experience, which allows her to successfully solve problems of varying complexity. Tatiana actively shares her knowledge and helps others achieve success. Her approach to work is distinguished by attention to detail and a commitment to high quality. Thanks to this, she has earned the trust of clients and colleagues. Tatiana strives for continuous development and training, which allows her to remain at the forefront of her profession.

People confuse psychologists with psychiatrists and fear being sent to a psychiatric hospital

These are specialists with different skills and knowledge. Each of them has unique experience, allowing them to effectively solve specific problems in their field. The diversity of competencies of such specialists contributes to higher-quality project implementation and the achievement of better results.

A psychologist focuses on normalizing emotional states, helping to understand feelings, improve relationships with others, work through fears, and adjust thinking. The specialist provides support during difficult times, teaches emotional management skills, and promotes personal growth. A psychologist's work includes analyzing internal conflicts and developing healthy strategies for interacting with oneself and others.

Psychiatry focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. In most cases, even in the presence of a mental illness, hospitalization occurs only in extreme cases. For example, with severe depression, patients are prescribed medication, which is usually carried out at home. This helps avoid unnecessary stress and create a comfortable environment for recovery.

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A clinical psychologist is a specialist who diagnoses and treats mental and emotional disorders. They help people cope with various psychological problems, such as depression, anxiety, stress, and other emotional difficulties. Clinical psychologists use evidence-based methods and techniques to improve the mental health of their clients. They can work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices, providing consultations and therapy to various populations. The main task of a clinical psychologist is to support and alleviate the suffering of patients, as well as help restore their psychoemotional well-being.

They think they definitely don't need a psychologist

Many are confident that they don't need a psychologist and that they are able to cope with problems on their own. This opinion often conceals a deep mistrust of the world around them and people. There is a fear that interaction with a psychologist will lead to changes that can destroy established attitudes passed down from generation to generation. However, if a person strives to understand themselves, improve their quality of life, and discover new horizons, visiting a specialist will be an important step towards change. A psychologist can help you understand internal conflicts, overcome barriers, and discover new opportunities for personal growth.

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Afraid to Hear the Truth

Fear is an important emotion, playing a key role in our survival. However, in everyday life, many people use this defense mechanism to create the illusion of well-being. This leads to ignoring reality and the desire to remain in the comfort zone, which, in turn, hinders personal growth and development. Coping with fears is necessary not only to overcome difficulties, but also to fully perceive life. Recognizing your fears and working with them can be the first step to a more conscious and successful existence.

For a long time, I was under the delusion that my family would always provide me with both moral and material support. However, in practice, my parents were harsh with me: their words sounded like a call to action - “Pull yourself together! Achieve! Do it yourself!” Instead of the support I expected, I only received pushes toward independence. I didn't want to acknowledge this and remained stagnant, which prevented me from moving forward. Only by turning to a specialist was I able to understand myself and my relationships.

Tatiana Scheglova is a professional editor and content writer specializing in creating high-quality texts for various online platforms. She has extensive experience in SEO and knows how to optimize text for best search engine results. Tatiana focuses not only on the quality of writing but also on the structure of the content, which improves its readability and comprehensibility. Her approach to work includes a thorough analysis of keywords and the needs of the target audience, ensuring each text is as relevant and engaging as possible for readers. Tatyana always strives for excellence, which allows her to create unique and memorable materials for her clients.

Expensive

There is a perception that high-quality psychological services are expensive, while inexpensive specialists may not meet clients' expectations.

When people claim that they cannot afford a psychologist, it is, first and foremost, a matter of prioritization. If a person does not have enough money for basic needs, such as food, then, of course, visiting a psychologist is out of the question – in this situation, survival is more important. However, if you work, buy high-quality groceries, order takeout, travel, and update your wardrobe, you may want to consider paying for a consultation with a psychologist. Investing in mental health can significantly improve the quality of life, help cope with difficulties and achieve harmony.

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The cost of a psychologist's consultation may vary depending on the region, the specialist's experience and the type of services provided. On average, the price per session ranges from 2,000 to 7,000 rubles. High prices can be determined by a number of factors: the psychologist's qualifications, their specialization, and the duration and format of the consultation. Psychologists with extensive experience and additional certifications typically charge higher rates.

It's also worth considering that the cost may include not only the session itself but also additional materials, such as tests or recommendations. In some cases, psychotherapy may require a longer and more in-depth approach, which is also reflected in the price.

Choosing a psychologist is an important step, and cost is not always an indicator of quality. It is recommended to pay attention to reviews and recommendations, as well as the approach the specialist uses. Some psychologists offer initial consultations at a reduced price or even free of charge, which can help you make a more informed decision.

Fear of running into a charlatan

These fears are indeed well-founded. To become a counseling psychologist, you do not need a higher education in psychology. It is enough to complete additional professional education courses that provide the necessary knowledge and skills in the field of psychology. This opens up opportunities for many people wishing to work in the field of psychological counseling.

Psychology courses can vary significantly in quality. It's important to choose a specialist based on client reviews. It's also worth inquiring about their education and the reputation of the institution they attended. This approach will help you find a qualified psychologist who can meet your needs. Unfortunately, qualified psychologists with a good education and experience don't always have the opportunity to publicly promote themselves. This creates space for charlatans to take their place. Many residents of small towns continue to believe that a visiting psychologist or psychotherapist has higher skills than a local specialist. So-called "stars" from the capital often appear in cities, using aggressive and manipulative sales methods, forcing people to spend their last money and go into debt. It turns out that these traveling professionals lack the appropriate qualifications and diploma. Therefore, it is crucial to verify the qualifications of a specialist who calls themselves a psychologist to avoid fraud and receive truly high-quality help. Tatyana Scheglova is a renowned expert in her field, possessing extensive experience and knowledge. She actively develops her career and shares useful information with a wide audience. Tatyana is a sought-after specialist, and her approaches and methods help many achieve success. She constantly updates her knowledge, monitors the latest trends, and incorporates innovations into her practice. Thanks to this, she manages to remain at the forefront of her profession and have a significant impact on her clients and colleagues. Tatyana Scheglova is a name associated with professionalism and quality.

It is believed that talking with a friend will have the same effect

Talking with a friend over a glass of wine can be psychologically beneficial, but it is not a substitute for professional psychological counseling. Talking with a loved one can help relieve stress and improve mood, but to solve deep psychological problems and receive qualified help, it is important to consult a specialist. Psychologists have the experience and knowledge to effectively work with emotional and mental difficulties. Psychologist are trained to effectively build therapeutic relationships with clients. This allows for the creation of beneficial and nurturing bonds that promote personal growth and emotional well-being. Proper interaction between psychologist and client is a key element of successful therapy, providing the comfort and trust necessary for profound change. Relationships with friends have their own specific characteristics. Communication with friends often involves sharing personal experiences and internal representations, which in Gestalt therapy are called "introjects" or "projections." Such conversations typically focus on the friend's experiences rather than on your own problems. This is not enough to effectively overcome emotional difficulties. Special dialogue techniques are required, including specific questions and techniques used by psychologists. Using professional approaches can significantly improve the quality of communication and promote a deeper understanding of each other.