Frequently Asked Questions

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While online therapy may not be the right fit for everyone, it can make it easier for some people to access help for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. There are multiple studies that suggest online therapy is equally as effective as in-person therapy for certain issues. However, this is largely dependent on personal preference.

Some advantages of online counselling include:

• Online counselling is a convenient & effective way to access mental health services.
• You are often more comfortable as you are in your own environment.
• Connecting virtually can also lower social anxieties associated with sharing physical spaces with others. 
• Virtual counselling reduces stigma as no one needs to know about your therapy sessions. 
• Online services provide access to therapeutic support quickly and with little hassle. 
• The therapeutic process is not hindered by travel time and other daily commitments.
• Requires less effort, especially beneficial for individuals struggling with fatigue or physical challenges.

Sadly, there is a huge misconception that seeing a therapist means there is something wrong with you, or only necessary when you are struggling with a mental health disorder. However, counselling can be incredibly helpful for many reasons. Seeking counselling is a sign of self-care & taking responsibility for your emotional well-being, which is not an indicator of mental instability.

Seeing a counsellor means that you may be:

• Seeking clarity in certain areas of your life
• Wanting to work through challenges, complex emotions or feelings
• Challenging negative thinking patterns
• Working through a traumatic experience
• Interested in learning new techniques to cope with difficult situations
• Focused on personal growth, self-awareness & well-being
• Keen on learning how to communicate feelings effectively

Specialist Wellness Counsellors (SWC) are licensed counsellors who serve to enhance their clients' total well-being by using a systems approach to counselling – working towards achieving wholeness within the integrative unity of body, mind and spirit. These counsellors are registered with the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP) and have obtained an Honours degree in Psychology. It is requisite that they complete several hours of supervised practical experience and may write a board exam. A SWC in South Africa consults clients on various physical, emotional, and psychological concerns that impact their general well-being. These counsellors can identify, but not diagnose mental disorders.

SWC are required to refer clients to medical and psychological professionals if they identify needs that require specialised intervention such as mood, personality and severe anxiety disorders or health-related problems that require medical attention.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to counselling intervention or duration. The time required will depend on the concerns that you may be dealing with, including your progress, goals and outcomes within the therapeutic process. Some people feel relief after just a few sessions, whereas others require more time. However, beneficial & effective counselling can range from 4 to 8 sessions to recognise change. 

While talking is a common aspect of counselling, therapists also provide practical tools, strategies, modalities, & techniques to help individuals.

A counsellor may help a person do the following: gain a better understanding of their behaviour, emotions, manage new challenges, overcome anxiety & insecurities, identify roadblocks and obstacles to improve mental health, well-being, & achieve goals.

 Play therapy is a form of therapeutic intervention primarily designed for children, although it can also be beneficial for adolescents and adults who may struggle to express themselves verbally. It utilises play as a medium for communication & expression, allowing individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and supportive environment.  Play is considered the natural language of children. Through various play activities such as drawing, storytelling, role-playing, and using toys or games, children can communicate their inner experiences, conflicts, and emotions that may be difficult to express verbally.