A therapy session is an environment in which the individual or group concerned can safely and privately express himself or herself. Some of my sessions are usually characterised by listening, talking and doing various activities to address specific problems. The idea of every session is for me to offer understanding, encouragement, and directions toward the established objectives.

As a rule, therapy starts with an initial session, in which our counsellor gets to know the client and their issues. The following sessions are then aimed at discussing matters, building up strategies for overcoming problems and evaluating the outcomes. It is a mutual one in which the approach is adjusted according to the needs of the client as objectives are met.

The length of therapy varies depending on the purpose and objectives of the person who uses it. Some concerns may be resolved in few sessions, and others may need long-term therapy. Progress is evaluated often, and clients are free to continue therapy, take a break, or stop therapy, depending on their preference.

No, it is perfectly fine to take the time to seek counselling because it doesn’t necessarily mean that there is something wrong with you. Counsellors are sought by many for personal development, stress, or change of life events. Talking for a better life and being concerned for a remedy rather than succumbing to a problem is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Most clients can start expressing some form of change after sessions depending on the level of participation. However, as therapy has always been personalised, the advancement is determined by the type of problem and the commitment of the client. Hard work in most cases reaps steady progress.

No, couples counselling is open to any person in a relationship, whether you are unmarried, dating, or involved in an unconventional relationship. They are to improve relationships, address couple issues, and work on improving relationships beyond marriage.

If your partner is not willing to go with you then you can go for the session alone. I guide you through the issues affecting relationships without the partner’s involvement and most often, counselling brings about growth and changes within you that will enhance the relationship even if your partner is unwilling to attend counselling sessions.

The patient-practitioner privilege is honoured in letter and spirit, which means whatever the patient says in therapy sessions remains between the two of us unless there are legal or safety concerns (for instance, if the patient poses a danger to self or others). It is the affirmative legal requirement for counsellors to maintain a client’s confidentiality, thus being able to encourage the free flow of information.

Normally, I ask my clients to visit me once a week or once in two weeks, depending on the number of sessions required. These are likely to take between 8 to 12 sessions while long-term therapy may span over months. The frequency and duration of the provided services are as flexible to suit a client’s unique needs as possible.