Got Questions?
Here, you will find answers to some common questions about my therapy practice, what to expect during sessions, confidentiality, ethics and more. My goal is to provide you with all the information you need to feel comfortable and informed as you begin your journey towards better mental health. If you have any additional questions that are not covered here, please feel free to reach out to me directly.
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy or counselling, is a collaborative process between a trained therapist and a client, aimed at addressing emotional, psychological, or behavioural concerns and promoting overall mental health and well-being. In therapy, clients have the opportunity to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Therapy works by providing clients with a confidential space to express themselves openly and without judgment. The therapist listens attentively, asks questions, and offers insights to help clients gain a deeper understanding of themselves and their concerns. However, therapy might not be just limited to cognition and emotions, but can be more holistic by encompassing both the mind and the body. Therapy can take various forms, including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, or family therapy, depending on the needs and preferences of the client. The therapeutic approach used may also vary. If you’d like to know more about the therapy approaches used by me, please visit the “Services” section of this website.
Here is a cluster of statistically major concerns that most individuals seek therapy for, globally:
If there were words here that describe your primary concerns, therapy might be a great step for you. However, it is completely alright if your concern isn’t as defined as you thought. Therapy could also be for you if you find yourself on the spectrum below:
Typically, it is best to look for a professional with at least a Master’s degree in Psychology, Applied Psychology, Clinical Psychology or Psychiatric Social Work from a UGC approved University. Such a qualification may ensure a comprehensive and vast theoretical background in understanding human behaviour and psychological well being as well as exposure to training and internships in clinical, hospital or organisational settings. Therapists, to expand their skills and learning, will often acquire further post-graduate certifications, diplomas and trainings in their areas of interests. You can then see if their specialisations support your specific needs. For further information on my credentials, please visit the “About” page on this website.
Choosing a therapist by gender is a personal decision. It’s important to feel comfortable and trust your therapist, which might depend on their gender for some people. For specific issues, like gender-related health concerns or sexual trauma, you might prefer a therapist of a particular gender. However, the therapist’s expertise and approach are the most crucial factors. Staying open-minded can broaden your options, and an initial consultation can help you decide if a therapist, regardless of gender, is the right fit for you. Your comfort and well-being should always come first.
The duration of therapy varies based on individual needs and goals. For some, therapy might last a few sessions to address a specific concern, while others may benefit from several months or even years of ongoing support for more complex concerns. My work is mostly process oriented. I will work with you to develop a personalized approach and regularly check-in with your goals to ensure it meets your needs.
Typically, sessions are scheduled once a week, especially at the beginning. However, some people may benefit from more frequent sessions, such as twice a week, while others might need less frequent visits, like bi-weekly or monthly. We can determine the best schedule based on your progress and specific circumstances.
A pre-consultation call, as offered by me, is a 20 minute no-cost conversation that we can schedule before formally beginning therapy. The purpose of this call is to get a better understanding of your concerns and estimating if I might be the best fit for you. If your needs align with my services, we can schedule 60 minute individual therapy sessions starting the next possible appointment slot. During this call, you may also bring forward any questions or curiosities you might have for me and my therapeutic stance. If I gauge that my approach might not be suited to your concerns, we do not need to proceed further. I can, however, at your request recommend one of my more suited and well-trusted colleagues in the field.
In your first therapy session, we will focus on your psychological safety and equipping you with resources for your well being and for future sessions. I might use some exercises to orient you to the present moment, helping you understand where you find yourself and giving space to locate the arousal and safety of your autonomic nervous system. There will be no formal history taking during this session. However, if you feel safe to mention something, we can contemplate that. We will start by building the foundation of our therapeutic alliance and rapport. Once you feel comfortable, you can express in detail the concerns that brought you to therapy. I may have some follow-up questions and discuss possible insights and routes for our work to support your needs. We will also dedicate some time to defining your goals for this therapeutic journey and discussing the schedule we will follow for future sessions. This initial session is about ensuring you feel safe, understood, and prepared for the therapeutic work ahead.
English and Hindi
I am deeply committed to providing culturally competent care to all my clients. I understand the importance of respecting and honouring diverse values, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds. I strive to create a safe and inclusive therapeutic environment where clients feel understood, respected, and supported regardless of their cultural identity. I continuously educate myself on cultural humility and seek to enhance my cultural competence through ongoing learning and self reflection. If you have specific values, beliefs, or cultural considerations that you would like to discuss or incorporate into our therapy sessions, please feel free to share them with me. Your cultural identity is an essential aspect of who you are, and I am here to support you in navigating your unique cultural experiences within the therapeutic process.
While I try my best to offer intermittent support between our sessions, please note that I am not a replacement for a suicide helpline. If you are in crisis and are not able to use any regulating strategies- please know you are not alone. You can reach out to a trusted friend or family member who can offer you support at this time.
You may also access the Government TeleManas helpline at https://telemanas.mohfw.gov.in/#/home .Here are a list of suicide helplines that work within India:
Vandrevala Foundation Helpline: 1-860-266-2345
AASRA: +91-9820466726
iCall: +91-22-25521111
Sumaitri: +91-11-23389090
Snehi: +91-33-24637401
If in extreme distress, you may also dial 112 or go to your nearest emergency room.
If you are outside of India, please contact the dedicated crisis helpline in your region.
Yes, therapy is confidential, and client confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of the therapeutic process. Therapists are bound by professional ethics and legal regulations to maintain strict confidentiality regarding the content of therapy sessions and the identity of clients. In India, therapists adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017, which emphasizes the importance of protecting client confidentiality. This means that information shared during therapy sessions is kept confidential and cannot be disclosed to anyone without the client’s explicit consent, except in certain specific situations mandated by law, such as instances of imminent harm to oneself or others. The consent form I share with you before beginning our therapeutic work together will provide further clarity on the above stated specific situations.
The code of conduct for therapists outlines the ethical principles and professional standards that therapists are expected to uphold in their practice. These include Confidentiality, Professional Competence, Boundaries, Informed Consent, Cultural Competence, Beneficence and Nonmaleficence, Fidelity and Responsibility, Integrity, Justice and Non-discrimination and Ethical Decision Making. Further information on this can be found on https://www.apa.org/ethics/code.
Yes, I offer online therapy or tele-consultation. I typically use Zoom to schedule and carry out our sessions which has proven to be most safe and reliable so far. If you have a preference of using another application, please let me know and I can look into it.
If you live in a rural area, you may use the option of teleconsultation. You may use your personal computer or mobile phone with an internet connection to connect to me via Zoom. If you have concerns about limited privacy or connectivity, please discuss the same with me during our pre-consultation call and I will try to make accommodations in scheduling.
If you live outside of India, you may use the option of tele consultation. You may use your personal computer or mobile phone with an internet connection to connect to me via Zoom. If you have concerns around payment methods and scheduling due to varying time zones, please discuss the same with me during our pre-consultation call and I will try to make possible accommodations.
I appreciate your efforts at supporting a loved one through their mental health journey. The support of a community can be immensely helpful in supporting therapeutic work. Some of the ways in which you can support them can be by encouraging open communication while also respecting their privacy and confidentiality. You can validate their feelings and experiences, offering practical support to help alleviate stressors. You may take some time educating yourself about their concern and therapy while giving due regard to their autonomy. If the client gives consent for the same, a check-in call with you as a caregiver can be arranged. Please note, your presence and involvement in the therapeutic journey and sessions of the client will only be encouraged post complete comfort and consent of the client.
Yes, therapy can be highly beneficial for individuals with specific mental health conditions. Therapists use evidence-based approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. To know more about the concerns I can help you with, please visit the “Services” section of the website.
Therapy is not exclusively for clients with diagnosed mental health conditions. While therapy is commonly associated with treating mental health disorders, it can also be beneficial for individuals experiencing various life challenges, transitions, or stressors. Individuals can seek therapy for Personal Growth and Self-Exploration, Stress, Relationship Difficulties, Life Transitions, Grief and loss, Emotional Support, Self-Esteem, Enhancing Life Satisfaction, Career Strategy and Decision Making and Attaining Work Life Balance.
Yes, therapy can be beneficial for personal growth and self-improvement. Some of the ways in which it helps is by increasing self-awareness, improved resources, enhancing communication and assertiveness, enhancing self-esteem, identifying one’s values and goals, overcoming limiting beliefs, exploration of identity and purpose, emotional healing and resilience and cultivation of mindfulness.
While it may take time and commitment, therapy offers a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore and process their past experiences, heal emotional wounds, and develop healthier coping strategies. This includes building emotional resilience, processing traumatic experiences, enhancing self-compassion, promoting post-traumatic growth and empowering self-advocacy. For learning more about Trauma Focused Therapy, please go to the “Services” section of the website.
Yes, therapy can be very supportive through chronic illnesses. It offers emotional support, builds resilience, and employs techniques to regulate during stressful periods. Therapy can also enhance self-esteem and assist with developing healthy habits. Additionally, it provides practical support for navigating healthcare systems and enhances communication. Family therapy can improve support within the family, and pain management techniques can improve comfort. Overall, therapy helps individuals better manage their chronic conditions, improve well-being, and enhance their quality of life.
Yes, therapy options are available for senior citizens and can address age-related concerns. Therapy supports seniors in managing chronic illnesses, adjusting to life changes, and finding meaning and purpose in later life. It can also help with caregiver support and acknowledging the need for generativity.
Yes, I offer services to individuals from indigenous communities, giving due precedence to their socio-cultural context, traditional practices and meanings to understand psychological phenomena. My early research as a psychologist involved closely working with the Gaddi community in Himachal Pradesh, which has deeply influenced my interest in the ethnographic learning of indigenous cultures. If you belong to an indigenous community, please know that this is a space that honours your unique lived experiences, and I am committed to staying informed and respectful of your culture.
Yes, therapy can be very effective in helping with work-related stress and burnout. It provides a supportive environment to explore the sources of stress and develop coping strategies.Therapists can help with techniques for managing stress, improving work-life balance, and enhancing resilience. Therapy can also help identify and address any underlying issues contributing to burnout, such as perfectionism or lack of assertiveness. Overall, therapy can improve your well-being, productivity, and satisfaction both at work and in your personal life.
Yes, I offer a sliding scale so that you may choose a fee amount based on your current resources. The amount you pay from the range does not determine the quality of psychotherapy you receive. If you are able to pay the amount at a higher range, it helps support my work and offer services to more individuals, hence bridging gaps in access to therapy.
Medications can play a supportive role in therapy by providing relief from distress, aiding in stabilization and enhancing cognition. Whether used short term or long term as prescribed, they are most effective when combined with psychotherapy. It’s important to remember that while psychiatric drugs are extensively researched, individual responses can vary. Collaborating with a healthcare provider allows for planning the most suitable treatment. As a psychotherapist, I will remain mindful of any psychiatric treatment you are taking, considering your insight and perception of your concerns. I am also open to collaborating with your doctor, with your consent, to provide multi-disciplinary care tailored to your needs. During our therapeutic work, if at any point you may feel like you require medical support, please discuss the same with me and I will try to refer you to a trusted doctor in my professional network.
No, I do not prescribe medications or provide a medical diagnosis. In the jurisdiction of India, only psychiatrists and other allied doctors with a medical degree are legally permitted to prescribe medications post an affirmative diagnosis.
While psychiatrists are often trained and qualified to give mental health diagnoses andprescribe medications to alleviate distress, they primarily focus on the medical aspects of mental health care. Psychiatric appointments are typically shorter in duration and are different in format, purpose, and outcome compared to therapy sessions. However, it’s worth noting that some psychiatrists may also have an interest in psychotherapy and may receive formal training in therapeutic modalities. You can inquire with your doctor if this is something they offer. On the other hand, psychotherapists, psychologists, and counselors are extensively trained in providing therapeutic care. They specialize in conceptualization and addressing psychological concerns through various therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual’s needs. Your therapist, with your consent, may collaborate closely with a psychiatrist to ensure comprehensive care for your concerns. This collaborative approach allows for a holistic treatment plan that considers both therapeutic and medical interventions, providing you with the most effective support for your mental health needs.
Therapy is not a quick fix and typically does not solve all problems immediately. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the therapeutic process. Therapy is a collaborative journey between you and your therapist, and meaningful change often takes time, effort, and commitment. Therapy provides a safe and supportive space for exploring challenges, gaining insight, and developing strategies. While some individuals may experience relief or clarity after just a few sessions, most therapeutic work unfolds gradually over time.
No, seeking therapy is not a sign of weakness or failure. In fact, it takes courage and strength to recognize when you need support and to take proactive steps to address your mental health and well-being. Everyone faces difficulties and struggles at some point in their lives, and seeking therapy can be an empowering step toward self-care and personal growth. It demonstrates a commitment to your own well-being and a willingness to invest in yourself. Therapy is a sign of strength, resilience, and self-awareness. Speaking from personal experience, I have great regard for my clients and they continue to inspire me with their courage, growth and commitment to self.
No, it is not true that men shouldn’t seek help for their mental health. Mental health is a universal concern that affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Unfortunately, societal stigma and traditional gender norms may discourage men from seeking help or expressing their emotions openly. However, seeking help for mental health issues is not a sign of weakness or lack of masculinity. In fact, it takes strength and courage to acknowledge when you’re struggling and to reach out for support. Seeking therapy or counselling can be incredibly beneficial for men, providing a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore their feelings, learn coping skills, and work through challenges. It’s important for men to prioritize their mental health and well-being, just as they would their physical health. By seeking help when needed, men can improve their overall quality of life, enhance their relationships, and achieve greater emotional resilience. True power lies in knowing oneself and asking for help you deserve.
Yes, it is okay to feel emotional during therapy. Therapy is a safe and supportive space where individuals are encouraged to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly and honestly. As therapy delves into personal and often sensitive topics, it’s common for emotions to surface. Emotional reactions in therapy can range from sadness and grief to anger, frustration, anxiety, or even joy and relief. These emotions are natural responses to the process of self-reflection and growth that occurs in therapy. Feeling emotional during therapy can be a sign of progress and an opportunity for deeper exploration and understanding. It allows individuals to process and work through difficult feelings, gain insight into underlying issues, and ultimately, foster healing and growth. Therapists are trained to create a safe and supportive environment for clients to express their emotions freely. Remember, there is no right or wrong way to feel in therapy, and experiencing emotions is an integral part of the therapeutic process. I am here to support you every step of the way as you explore and work through your feelings.
Some of the qualities that are most supportive to your growth in therapy is if your therapist offers empathy and compassion to your concerns while ensuring a safe and non-judgmental space. Active listening while paying attention to what is both verbal and non-verbal shows commitment from the therapist. Respect, understanding, trust and rapport are some things that make a good therapeutic alliance. Ethical practice defines the value system of a therapist and them establishing clear boundaries with you and following their code of conduct is a good sign of their integrity. A therapist’s authenticity with respect to their competence and qualifications can be a hallmark of trust and appropriate care. It can also include flexibility and adaptability to your unique concerns and giving space to goal-setting and feedback to gauge progress.
I believe this question gives you the power of autonomy and choice, to put forth your needs to select a professional who can truly support you and your well being. A pre-consultation call often helps both the therapist and the client gauge if they are a good fit for each other. Some of the aspects that, statistically but not universally, can be helpful to consider is how comfortable and safe you feel with your therapist, their communication style, alignment of goals, feedback and collaboration, cultural sensitivity and sometimes even your intuition. That being said, it is also okay if you feel like your therapist might not be a good fit for you after a few sessions with them. It helps to discuss the same with your therapist and address what is coming up for you. If it doesn’t feel okay to continue, your therapist can offer to terminate therapy with you and you may have an option to ask for a referral.
If you feel like your therapist doesn’t understand you, you can address this concern with them in order to make informed decisions about your care. Communicate your feelings and let them know if you feel misunderstood or if there are some areas where you feel they’re not quite grasping your perspective. You may offer examples of the same and that might help understand your expectations. You can always ask for clarifications if your therapist’s approach is confusing or unclear. Seek feedback and discuss alternate techniques with your therapist, they are likely to be open to adapting their approach to better meet your needs. If you still feel like your therapist doesn’t understand you, it may be worth exploring other therapy options.
Feeling uncomfortable or judged during therapy is a valid concern and it’s important to address it. Recognise and acknowledge your feelings and communicate with your therapist. See ifthe therapy space is able to explore your discomfort in a safe manner. There might be triggers or situations that led to these feelings of discomfort, and it is okay for you to ask your therapist to recalibrate boundaries a topic or approach makes you uncomfortable. Despite exploring and discussing your concerns, if the therapy space continues to feel unsafe and unsupportive, it may be worth looking at alternate therapy options.
It’s common to have concerns about dependency when starting therapy, but seeking help from a therapist does not necessarily lead to dependency. While therapy involves forming a close and supportive association, the goal is to empower you to develop the skills and insights to build self-reliance and independence. Therapists are trained to establish clear boundaries to prevent dependency and you’ll often notice that the frequency of sessions reduces as you feel more resourced in taking care of yourself. Seeking help from a therapist can actually strengthen your ability to cultivate your own healthy support system. That being said, when you come in to therapy with a history of emotional wounds, attachment trauma, complex trauma, difficult experiences or great severity of distress, the association with your therapist can feel deeply indispensable and growth may be non-linear. Therefore, it might be a good idea to see a therapist who is trauma focused or trauma informed so that they can support deep healing and hold the space for you, while helping you process painful experiences and re-integrate memories until you are able to access your inner wisdom. Even in this context, dependency is never the goal. Therapists are often in personal therapy and take active supervision to make sure their practice is ethical and safe for the client.
No, therapy is not only for people who have no friends or family to talk to. Therapy is for anyone who wants to improve their mental health, well-being, and overall quality of life, regardless of their social support network.While friends and family can provide valuable support, there are times when talking to a therapist can offer unique benefits such as non judgement, confidentiality, specialised expertise, emotional support, safety and an opportunity for personal growth.
No, your therapist will not make decisions about your career or relationships for you. Instead, they will provide support and insight to help you explore your options, clarify your goals, and make informed decisions that align with your values and priorities. They will respect your autonomy and empower you to take ownership of your choices and actions.
Yes, it is not uncommon to experience a temporary increase in distress or discomfort before feeling better during therapy. This phenomenon is often referred to as “the therapy paradox” or “the therapeutic dip.” It might happen due to increased awareness while exploring deep-seated emotions, challenging beliefs, and confronting difficult experiences. You may begin to unpack and process emotions that you have been avoiding or numbing for some time. This can stir up intense emotions and bring them to the surface, leading to temporary distress. However, a therapist often assists you in resourcing yourself to endure this distress and this prevent re-traumatisation. As you work to bring any desired changes, you may encounter resistance or discomfort as you confront certain habits and beliefs. This transitional period can be accompanied by uncertainty and anxiety as you navigate unfamiliar territory. It’s important to remember that while feeling worse before feeling better is a common experience in therapy, it is usually temporary and can be a sign of progress. As you continue to engage in therapy and work through these challenges, you may begin to experience relief, insight, and growth. If you find yourself struggling with increased distress during therapy, don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your therapist. They can provide support, reassurance, and help you navigate this difficult period and continue moving forward in your therapeutic journey.
Talking about your problems in therapy is unlikely to make them worse. In fact, therapy provides a safe and supportive space to explore and process your concerns, which can lead to healing and positive change. It’s important to note that therapy is a collaborative process, and you have control over what you choose to discuss and explore in therapy. If certain topics feel too overwhelming or triggering, you can work with your therapist to pace yourself and address them at a comfortable pace.
Therapy can influence aspects of your personality and behaviour, but it’s unlikely to fundamentally change who you are. It can help you gain insight, develop skills, and make positive changes, but your core identity remains intact. Instead, it can help you become a healthier version of yourself by building on your strengths, addressing areas for improvement, and fostering greater self-awareness and resilience.
No, therapy cannot brainwash or manipulate you. In ethical therapy, the goal is to empower and support you in making informed decisions and choices that align with your values and goals. Therapists are trained professionals who adhere to ethical guidelines and respect your autonomy and dignity. Therapy focuses on promoting self-awareness, insight, and personal growth, rather than coercion or manipulation. If you have concerns about the therapeutic process, it’s important to discuss them openly with your therapist to ensure you feel safe and comfortable in therapy.
Trauma Focused Therapists often use a Phase Based Approach to prevent re-traumatization and process traumatic experiences with sensitivity and respect for your readiness. They use evidence based techniques to create a safe and supportive environment. For example, my work is informed by the Adaptive Information Processing Theory, Polyvagal Theory, Importance of Stabilisation for Trauma Recovery, Internal Family Systems, integrating Trauma Focused Principles to Behavioural Therapy and Narrative Exposure Therapy. This equips me to offer you a space to process trauma in a safe and titrated way.
No, therapy cannot erase memories or change your past. Memories are complex and deeply ingrained in your brain, and therapy does not have the ability to alter them. However, therapy canhelp you process and make sense of your memories in a way that promotes healing and personal growth.
Therapy, when conducted ethically and responsibly, does not implant false memories in your mind. Ethical therapists prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel empowered to explore their thoughts, feelings, and memories at their own pace. It’s important to choose a qualified therapist who adheres to professional standards and guidelines, and to communicate openly with your therapist about any concerns you have regarding memory or the therapeutic process. If you are an eyewitness, involved in legal proceedings that require your testimony or have any legal obligations/processes underway that may interfere with or compromise confidentiality, do inform and discuss the same with your therapist.
Ethical therapists do not hypnotize clients against their will. Hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that requires the client’s cooperation and consent. It is typically used as a tool to help clients relax, access deeper levels of consciousness, and explore and address issues such as anxiety, trauma, or habits. Typically therapists who offer or suggest hypnosis are trained in hypnotherapy and have guidelines that define their conduct. Please note that I currently do not specialise in or offer hypnotherapy as a tool for trauma recovery.
Therapy is a confidential space where you have the freedom to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Your therapist will not force you to reveal all your secrets or disclose anything you’re not ready to discuss. That being said, opening up and being honest in therapy can often lead to more meaningful and beneficial outcomes. It can help you gain insight, process emotions, and work through challenges more effectively. However, you should never feel obligated to disclose anything that makes you uncomfortable, and your therapist will support you in setting and maintaining boundaries that feel right for you.
No, it is not true that going to therapy means you are “crazy.” Therapy is a valuable resource that many people use to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Seeking therapy is a courageous and proactive step towards addressing personal challenges, stress, and enhancing self-awareness and growth. If you feel stigmatised or labelled due to mental distress, therapy can hold space for these uncomfortable feelings or fears as well.
No, it is not true that therapists will share your secrets with your family or friends without your consent. Therapists are bound by strict confidentiality and ethical guidelines that protect your privacy and confidentiality. There are, however, some exceptions to confidentiality that therapists are required to adhere to by law. These exceptions typically include situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child abuse or neglect, or when ordered by a court of law. In such cases, therapists may be required to disclose information to appropriate authorities, but they will typically inform you of this beforehand whenever possible. If you have any further concerns about confidentiality, please feel free to discuss the same during our pre-consultation call. Additionally, the consent form that we use before beginning therapy will state all your rights and responsibilities that you can thoroughly read and understand for your psychological safety.
No, going to therapy will not ruin your reputation. Therapy is a confidential and private process, and whether or not you choose to share that you’re in therapy is entirely up to you. Some people who have benefited from therapy speak openly about their experiences and the positive impact it has had on their lives. Sharing your experiences with therapy can help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek help when needed. However, you are not obligated to do so.
While the image of lying on a couch during therapy sessions may be common in popular culture, therapy is actually a diverse and dynamic process that can involve various techniques and approaches. Therapy sessions can take place in different settings, including offices, clinics, or online platforms, and the format can vary depending on the therapist’s approach and the client’s preferences. While talking is a central aspect of therapy, it is not the only method used. Therapy may involve activities, exercises, or interventions aimed at helping clients gain insight, developing skills, process emotions, and work towards their therapeutic goals. Some therapists also involve art, movement, music and drama in their sessions.
No, it is not true that once you start therapy, you’ll need it forever. The duration of therapy varies greatly depending on the individual’s needs, goals, and progress. Therapy can be short-term or long-term, and the frequency and duration of sessions can be adjusted based on the client’s progress and preferences. Some people may find that they only need a few sessions to address a specific issue or learn coping skills for managing stress or anxiety. Others may benefit from longer-term therapy to work through deeper-seated issues, trauma, or relationship challenges. The decision to continue therapy or end it is ultimately up to the client, and it depends on their goals and the progress they’ve made. Some clients may choose to end therapy once they’ve achieved their goals or feel they’ve gained the insights and skills they need to cope with life’s challenges. Others may find ongoing therapy to be helpful for maintaining their mental health and well-being. Therapy is a flexible and individualized process, and the duration of therapy can vary widely from person to person. It’s important for clients to communicate openly with their therapist about their goals, progress, and preferences, so that together they can determine the most appropriate course.
No, it is not true that once you start therapy, you will be forced to continue indefinitely. Therapy is a collaborative process between you and your therapist, and you have control over the duration and frequency of your sessions. Therapists work with clients to establish goals that are tailored to their individual needs and preferences. This includes discussing the anticipated duration of therapy and any plans for ending or transitioning out of therapy when appropriate. Therapy should always be voluntary, and you have the right to end therapy at any time if you feelit is no longer benefiting you or if you have achieved your goals. Your therapist is there to support you in your journey and will respect your decisions regarding the duration and frequency of your sessions.
Post completion of therapy, you might want to give yourself some time to integrate the processes in your daily functioning. It can begin with continuing to use tools and skills that you have been equipped with in therapy. Fostering social connections, nurturing your boundaries, mindfulness, harbouring curiosity, engaging in meaningful activities, staying connected with support systems and practicing self-compassion can be some ways you can continue taking care of yourself. Apart from this, once we decide to end our therapy sessions, any questions you might have about your well being post our therapeutic work will always be welcome. Based on your unique needs and journey through therapy, we can discuss and contemplate on future resources for you.
Several resources can provide continued support after therapy ends. Joining support groups can provide ongoing encouragement and help you practice your skills. There are some trusted communities or forums focused on mental health that can offer a sense of connection. Mental health helplines can offer crisis support or intervention while community centres can provide ongoing support and education. Nurturing your personal support network of friends, family or trusted individuals can also help support you. Some individuals may choose to continue therapy on as-needed basis or for periodic check-ins with their therapist. It is important to check with your therapist if they are able to provide continued support post completion and how that might work.