Therapy Myths vs. Facts: Clearing Up Mental Health Misconceptions

Compassionate, Evidence-Based Mental Health Care in Longmont, CO

At Longmont Psychology in Longmont, Colorado, we are dedicated to helping individuals better understand, manage, and overcome mental health challenges. Led by Dr. Brian Carl, our practice provides compassionate, evidence-based care designed to support your emotional well-being and improve your quality of life.

Mental health conditions are common—but with the right support, they are highly treatable. Whether you’re facing persistent anxiety, depression, or trauma-related symptoms, our goal is to help you restore balance, resilience, and a sense of peace.

Below, we explore some of the most common conditions we treat at Longmont Psychology.


1. Anxiety Disorders: More Than Just Worry

Anxiety is a normal emotion, but when it becomes overwhelming or constant, it may indicate an anxiety disorder. These conditions are among the most common mental health challenges in the U.S., affecting millions of people each year.

Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent worry or fear
  • Racing thoughts or feeling “on edge”
  • Physical symptoms such as a pounding heart, sweating, or dizziness
  • Avoiding certain situations out of fear or apprehension

Types of anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, and specific phobias.

At Longmont Psychology, Dr. Brian Carl uses proven approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help individuals reduce anxiety and regain control. Through therapy, you can develop healthier coping strategies, quiet the mind, and feel more at ease in your daily life.


2. Depression: More Than Just Feeling Sad

Depression affects how you think, feel, and function. It’s more than occasional sadness—it can touch every part of your life.

Symptoms may include:

  • Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

At Longmont Psychology, we use treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) to help uncover the root causes of depression and build lasting coping tools.

Dr. Carl provides a compassionate, personalized approach—helping you challenge unhelpful thoughts, heal emotional wounds, and rediscover meaning and motivation in your life.


3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Healing from Trauma

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a deeply distressing event such as an accident, assault, or disaster. It can impact relationships, work, and daily life—but healing is possible.

Common symptoms include:

  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories
  • Nightmares or sleep difficulties
  • Feeling constantly “on alert”
  • Avoiding reminders of the trauma
  • Emotional numbness or detachment

Dr. Brian Carl specializes in trauma-informed care, using treatments like Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These evidence-based approaches help you safely process trauma, reduce distress, and rebuild a sense of safety and stability.


4. Other Common Conditions We Treat

Beyond anxiety, depression, and PTSD, Longmont Psychology offers assessment and treatment for a variety of mental health concerns, including:

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
  • Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by mood shifts between depressive and manic episodes.
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Marked by inattention, impulsivity, and restlessness.
  • Eating Disorders: Including anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating.
  • Substance Use Disorders: Helping individuals address the underlying causes of addiction and build strategies for recovery.

Compassionate, Collaborative Care

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin, Dr. Brian Carl and the team at Longmont Psychology are here to help. We provide comprehensive assessments and individualized treatment plans grounded in research and compassion.

Our approach is warm, respectful, and collaborative—focused on helping you feel heard, supported, and empowered to create meaningful change.


Schedule an Appointment

Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage. At Longmont Psychology, we offer both in-person and telehealth appointments for residents in Longmont and the surrounding Colorado communities.

If you’re ready to take charge of your mental health, contact Longmont Psychology today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

Together, we’ll help you move toward a life of greater balance, confidence, and emotional well-being.