Frequently Asked Questions
What is counselling?
Counseling is a professional relationship that is aimed at helping, assisting or guiding diverse individuals, groups or families to accomplish mental health and wellness, to process emotions, or even to unpack and talk about things that might seem trivial but unsettling (ACA, 2010). At The Lighthouse, no topic is too trivial, especially if it is causing you some distress; we are always open to listening to you.
What is the difference between a counsellor, psychotherapist, clinical psychologist, psychiatrist and a coach?
Counsellor/ Psychotherapist:
- They practice counselling across various populations and groups. They are specifically trained to conduct counselling or psychotherapy for anyone who is struggling with life problems, emotional issues, daily struggles, and anything within the range.
- They hold a master’s degree in Counselling Psychology.
- They also have knowledge of mental disorders and know when to refer individuals who need more in-depth treatment to the appropriate mental health professional.
- Psychotherapy is similar to counselling but more in-depth as emotionally buried past experiences are discussed.
Clinical Psychologist:
- They have a strong background in science, theory and practice of psychological disorders.
- They hold a master’s degree and an MPhil degree in Clinical Psychology.
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Psychiatrist:
- They are licensed physicians who have completed a residency in psychiatry.
- They are experts in diagnosing disorders, identifying and treating psychopathology, and prescribing medication for psychiatric conditions.
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Coach:
- Helps set and achieve goals, emotional experiences and past not explored.
Note: All the counsellors/psychotherapists at The Lighthouse hold an MSc in Counselling Psychology.
How do I know if I need counselling?
The best way to check if you need counselling is by checking if there are symptoms, thoughts, or emotions that if dealt with or changed, could make your daily living a little easier. Counselling can also be a safe space where you can explore or get to know yourself better. At The Lighthouse, any discomfort or unexplainable feeling that you might have with yourself or your life is worth exploring and we look forward to listening to your story and helping you achieve mental wellness. We strongly believe that although not everyone needs counselling, everyone can strongly benefit from it.
What can I expect from counselling?
Counselling caters to the specific needs of the individual. Thus, whether it is to feel lighter by unloading certain emotions, to feel stronger by working on yourself, to work on certain behaviours if you wish to modify them, etc; we as therapists are here to listen and provide you with a safe space to work towards your needs and ethically meet your expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you prescribe medication?
No, we do not. Only psychiatrists are allowed to prescribe medication. If we feel that you might benefit from taking medication, we will refer you to an appropriate mental health professional.
What is the difference between the services you provide at The Lighthouse?
- Individual therapy – A one-on-one session with a therapist to discuss your individual mental health needs and challenges. For students only, display valid school/college student ID.
- Couples therapy – A dedicated therapist to work with you and your significant other to overcome any concerns in your relationship.
- Family therapy – A form of therapy to address specific concerns and unhealthy communication patterns/boundaries affecting the health and functioning of a family.
- Corporate training – Conducting training and workshops on topics related to mental health, personal growth and emotional well-being to improve skills and enhance the performance of individuals for academic or educational institutes, corporates, and startups of all sizes.
Note: All sessions are online keeping the pandemic in mind.
What type of therapy do you practice? What is the essence of each kind of therapy?
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy – It focuses on the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and how changing one can influence the others. It focuses on identifying and overcoming unhelpful ways of thinking.
Gestalt therapy – It focuses on one’s present life and challenges rather than going deep into past experiences. It gives importance to understanding the context of a person’s life and taking responsibility rather than placing blame.
Person-centred therapy – It focuses on our innate potential to grow and heal in a supportive environment where genuineness, empathy, and unconditional positive regard is given importance.
Narrative therapy – It emphasizes on the stories we develop and carry with us through our lives. People are viewed separately from their problems to ensure that they no longer see a problem as an unchangeable part of them, but as an external issue that can be changed.
Existential therapy – It gives importance to finding meaning and purpose in life, often focusing on the person rather than on the symptom
How many sessions do I have to come for?
There is no fixed number of sessions that you have to come for. This is a decision that you and your therapist can take together depending on your needs and progress in therapy. Remember, you have the choice to leave at any time, or to ask to be referred to someone else if it is not the right fit for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the process to book an appointment?
You can choose your therapist after going through their profile. If you feel they might be a good fit for you, write an email to thelighthousecounsellors@gmail.com stating the name of the therapist, a tentative date and time, and your contact details. We will understand your requirement and book a slot for you at a mutually convenient time.
What modes of payment do you accept?
We accept Google Pay/UPI and Bank transfer. You can discuss the payment mode with your therapist.
We do not accept online payment through the website as of now.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you must cancel or reschedule your appointment, please inform us at least 24 hours in advance or by the previous day and you will receive a refund. This will free up your appointment time for another client. If you do not inform us in time, the full amount would be charged. Emergencies would be considered.
How do we maintain quality service?
All therapists at The Lighthouse hold an MSc degree in Counseling Psychology. We have been trained in ethics and conducting sessions (individual, group, family). We also make sure we engage in Continuing Education courses and training to stay up to date on the latest developments in therapy and psychological research. We regularly consult with our supervisors and conduct weekly peer supervision sessions as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ethical body do we follow?
While there is no regulatory body in India for counselling services, we have all been trained in and strictly adhere to the APA guidelines. You can read more about it here https://www.apa.org/ethics/code/
What are our terms regarding confidentiality?
All our interactions, including scheduling of or attendance at appointments, content of your sessions, progress in counseling, and your records are confidential. The only exceptions to this are -
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i. Your therapist may consult your case with a Supervisor for professional and training purposes. Even then, your identity will not be shared.
ii. If there is evidence of clear and imminent danger of harm to self and/or others, your therapist is required to report this information to the authorities responsible for ensuring safety.
iii. A court order, issued by a judge, may require your therapist to release information contained in records
and/or require them to testify in a court hearing
What are some things a client cannot expect from us?
They will not receive advice or quick fixes. The process of therapy is one that takes time and deep understanding of the problem at hand.
They cannot expect to feel better within a set time frame. Our lives have ups and downs and we need to account for changes in our journey.
They cannot get extra time in a session. We honour each other's time and cannot take away the time required by another client.
If I feel suicidal, what should I do?
Go to the nearest hospital and let them know what you are experiencing, or call a suicide helpline. Your life is important and you deserve to get the help you need.
We recommend:
Aasra: 91-9820466726
ICall Helpline Number: +91 22 2552111 and +91 91529 87821
Sneha foundation Helpline Number: 044-24640050
Fortis stress Helpline Number: +9183768 04102
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I know someone who needs counselling but does not want to come for a session. How can I convince them?
As much as you might want them to, no one can be forced to come to therapy. You can remind them that you care about them and that therapy is a private, non-judgemental space which would help them through what they are facing. Also remember to seek help and take care of your own mental health if these or other issues are stressing you out.
Have other questions we didn’t address? Contact us today and our team of highly qualified professionals will be happy to help.