Therapy can be daunting.
Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions.
How do I know if I should go to a therapist?
To be honest, anyone can go for therapy. It is not just reserved for people who are going through difficult circumstances. Think of it like a gym for your mental health. You may not always go to a gym to lose weight, but you may also go to ensure general physical wellbeing and strength. Similarly, therapy can also be taken at regular intervals to ensure mental wellbeing.
Will the things I share be confidential?
Absolutely. Unless there is any risk of self-harm, harm to others, or criminal activity, it will be ensured that whatever you share in the therapy space will be kept confidential. You don’t have to worry at all. However, for people below the age of 18, check-in calls with parents/guardians may be done with prior consent and discussion.
Will you give medication?
No. Medications are prescribed by psychiatrists, who typically have a MBBS degree with a specialisation in psychiatry. A psychologist on the other hand, has a masters in psychology and is qualified to provide therapy, not medications. In case the symptoms are extremely distressing and affect your daily functioning adversely, a psychologist may refer you to a psychiatrist or suggest that you get a psychiatric consultation.
Will you give me advice or solutions on how I can improve my situation?
The idea behind therapy is to offer clients with different perspectives, resources, tools and techniques that can empower them to make their own decisions. Advice and solutions are usually not given, and clients are encouraged to reflect on their available choices.
How long will it take for me to get better?
It varies. Depending on the client, their needs, and the concerns that they bring in, the duration of therapy varies from a couple of months to years. Ideally, it is suggested to have a minimum of 4-8 sessions to see at least some change.
What if I don’t find the sessions to be helpful for me?
That’s absolutely okay! Some therapists and their approach of working may not be the most suitable for you. You can always find a different one who can better suit your needs. It is, of course, ideal if you discuss this in session first and see if there is a way to navigate this.
How do I know if my therapist is qualified to give therapy?
In India, a Masters in Psychology is the minimum qualification that is required to be a therapist. Therapists who specialise in specific types of therapy require certification from a credible organization to practice that modality with clients.
Can we be friends or meet outside of therapy?
As much as therapists would love to connect with their clients beyond therapy, this is not ethical. A therapist-client relationship is a professional one, and being friends or/and meeting in a social context is likely to affect the unbiased perspective that a therapist usually has during a session.
If you have any questions about therapy or my sessions, write to me below and I shall respond at the earliest.