FAQs
Getting you the answers
1
Psychological counselling and who it may be for
Who benefits from psychological counselling?
Counselling can benefit almost anyone, including those who feel as if they don't need it. People typically come to counselling for support and guidance during difficult periods like - for example - retrenchment, grief, divorce or stress.
Can't I just speak to my friends or family?
Counselling offers a unique space in which people can explore their experiences in a safe, non-judgemental manner. Although social support is fantastic and encouraged, a professional dynamic transcends everyday conversations with friends or relatives.
What if I have a pre-existing disorder or diagnosis?
The HPCSA's ethical guidelines prohibit practitioners from deviating from their scope of practices. Registered counsellors ARE NOT permitted to render clinical services in which diagnoses, or treatment, of disorders are rendered. Any pre-existing diagnoses will be discussed during sessions to ensure that you receive the correct support.
Do you provide counselling to teens and children?
I do offer support to teens from the age of 14 years. I enjoy working with teenagers, especially those struggling with anger or regulating their emotions. Although I administer psychometric evaluations to children, I do not provide counselling services to children under the age of 14 years old. Please contact me, should you need more information.
What types of concerns or challenges can I bring to counselling?
Although not exhaustive, clients can bring any emotional, behavioural, or life challenges, including stress, low mood, relationship difficulties, school or work pressures, adjustment challenges, self-esteem concerns, and personal growth goals.
Do I need a referral to see you?
No, a referral is not a prerequisite to book an appointment with me. You are welcome to book directly with me should you desire an appointment.
What if I am not sure whether counselling is for me?
It is normal to feel unsure during this consideration. An initial session can help you clarify your concerns and decide whether counselling feels helpful and appropriate for your needs. You are not under any obligation to continue using the service.
2
Sessions, process, and commitment
Do I have to commit to a set amount of sessions?
No. If you do not want to commit to additional sessions, you do not have to. Clients are not obligated to attend further appointments. However, any such concerns can always be discussed during consultations. Typically, follow-ups are made at the end of each session but I will NEVER force you to commit to a follow-up or to a set quantity of sessions.
How often can we have appointments?
In most cases, one session per week is sufficient. Some individuals prefer once every two weeks while others prefer sessions as infrequently as once per month. Session frequency is generally informed by the nature of a client's concerns and other personal factors. However, regular and consistent follow-ups are known to produce meaningful experiences.
How many sessions will I need?
How many sessions an individual may benefit from is largely determined by the individual's concerns. Many individuals only require a few sessions for support but others grow to enjoy the service so much that they come back for weeks, months or years.
What if we are not a good fit?
Finding a practitioner that you are comfortable with is an important step towards meaningfully addressing your concerns. Counselling, and any interaction for that matter, is uncomfortable when individuals do not have - or struggle to build - rapport. Discussing this during sessions is important to optimise the support you receive. I will always approach your concerns professionally.
What happens in the first session?
The first session focuses on understanding your reasons for seeking support, your background, and your goals. I will also discuss confidentiality, boundaries, and how the counselling process works. A duration of 90 minutes are allocated to first session to comprehensively explore the circumstances that brought you to counselling.
Is counselling online or in-person?
Depending on availability and your preferences, services can be offered both in-person and online, noting that it is always preferred to have the first session in-person. Online sessions thereafter can be arranged
Can I change my goals during the counselling process?
Yes. Your goals can be reviewed and adjusted as necessary to accommodate your needs and circumstances.
3
Appointments, fees, and practical matters
How do I make or cancel an appointment?
Please contact me directly via email or WhatsApp to book or cancel an appointment.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes, absolutely! Relevant legislation and HPCSA policies provide strict ethical frameworks in which the adherence to confidentiality is obligated. A threshold must be met before a practitioner may disclose confidential information without a client's consent. Generally, this is limited to rare circumstances in which clients are either a risk to themselves or a risk to others, or a court orders the disclosure of information.
What happens if I miss an appointment?
As per the practice's cancellation policy - which will be explained to you during the first session - missed appointments will incur a fee for which the client is liable. Appointments MUST be cancelled at least 24 hours before your session. Appointments not cancelled within 24 hours will be charged in full against the client (not their medical aid scheme).
What are your fees?
Fees vary by service. Please contact me for the most up-to-date fee information.
4
Medical aid schemes and accounts
Can I claim from medical aid?
Depending on your specific provider, and the associated benefits of your specific plan, you may be eligible to be reimbursed for counselling services. Often, medical aids schemes allow members to make use of their day-to-day savings for such services. I can claim back from your medical aid scheme on your behalf, but clients are welcome to claim back from their medical aid schemes by themselves should they prefer this.
Will I receive an invoice or statement for medical aid claims or tax purposes?
Yes. I will forward an invoice to you subsequent to your session that can be used either for medical aid claim submissions or for tax purposes.
5
Psychometric assessments
What type of assessments do you currently offer?
I currently offer: aptitude testing for Grade Rs and 1s; subject choice evaluations for Grade 9s, 10s, and 11s; and career guidance assessments for Grade 11s, 12s, and undergraduate students. Please contact me for possible updates on the assessments I can offer.
Is there value in psychometric assessments?
Yes, absolutely! Psychometric assessments are comprehensive instruments that provide in-depth insight and understanding that may have otherwise not been acquired. Psychometric evaluations inform psychological care pathways and options available to clients.
How do psychometric assessments work?
The process begins with a 90 minute intake session like individual counselling, with either the client themselves or with the parents/guardians of the client depending on age. The purpose of this consultation is to gain a holistic understanding of the individual's circumstances, history, challenges, or concerns. Together with the results of the assessment, this information informs the report presented to the client or parents/guardians thereof. A feedback appointment will be arranged.
How are psychometric results explained to me?
Results are discussed in a collaborative manner. I will convey my findings, concerns (if any), and recommendations in simple, practical terminology. A comprehensive written report will also be provided which serves as a reference should the client or parents/guardians thereof require further information. A shortened version of this report can be produced upon request for the purposes of a referral, if necessary.
6
Professional roles, registration, and scope
6
What is a registered counsellor?
Registered counsellors are a category of professionals who provide psychological intervention and support to individuals, couples, groups and communities. They undergo rigorous theoretical and practical training that includes placement at an accredited site for the practicum component of their training. Registered counsellors are registered with the HPCSA, through which a variety of other health related professionals - like medical doctors, optometrists, and psychologists - are also overseen. Every professional registered with the HPCSA must undergo category approved training and - in addition to meeting all academic requirements of the tertiary institution who facilitates their training - they must also pass a category specific HPCSA board exam.
Registered counsellor vs psychologist? What is the difference?
Registered counsellors and psychologists are both psychological professionals who often perform overlapping roles. These two professionals often work together but differ in their approach to psychological intervention. Registered counsellors provide psychological interventions aimed at addressing common mental health challenges and concerns such as: stress; grief; or interpersonal conflict; although these examples are by no means exhaustive. Psychologists provide psychological interventions aimed at addressing complex mental health disorders like: depression; bipolar; or personality disorders, for example. Psychologists make - and subsequently treat - psychopathological diagnoses.
Psychologist vs psychiatrist? What is the difference?
Psychologists and psychiatrists often perform overlapping roles. However, the predominant difference between these two professionals is that psychologists ARE NOT medical doctors. Therefore, they MAY NOT prescribe any medications. Psychologists treat mental health disorders psychotherapeutically. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who mostly treat mental health disorders pharmacologically. It is common for registered counsellors, psychologists, and psychiatrists to work together in caring for a single client. This often optimises the care and support a client receives thereby favourably influencing prognoses.
Will I be referred to a psychologist or psychiatrist?
Not necessarily. You may be referred to either of these professionals if your needs fall beyond the scope of a registered counsellor. Examples could include: requiring specialised psychological intervention, formal diagnosis, or medication.
