Frequently Asked Questions about Counselling
How do I know if I need counselling?
Determining whether counselling is right for you often begins with simply considering it. If the idea of seeking support has crossed your mind, it's often a good indication that exploring it further could be beneficial.
It's never too early to start counselling. In fact, proactive engagement can be a powerful tool for preventing more significant mental health difficulties from developing.
Whether you're having challenges with expressing your needs, experiencing a persistent feeling of sadness without a clear cause, difficulties focusing, or struggling with effective communication in your relationships with partners, friends, or family, therapy can offer a safe and confidential environment. This space allows you to openly explore any difficult feelings, gain clarity, and develop new coping strategies.
Who do you help?
Arula Counselling specialises in supporting individuals navigating challenges related to neurodivergence, creativity, trauma, depression, and anxiety (but not limited to). However, I believe that labels do not define an individual. Central to every therapeutic relationship is the foundation of trust and a sense of comfort between you and your therapist. I am here to meet you where you are, understanding that your unique experiences at the core of the therapeutic work.
What happens during the consultation call?
The consultation call is an essential first step, for us to get to know each other. This is a collaborative conversation where you'll have the opportunity to share what brings you to therapy and discuss any needs or goals you may have for the process. I will also share more information about my therapy approach and the services Arula Counselling offers, giving you a clearer understanding of how I can support you. If, by the end of this call, both you and I feel it's the right fit, we can then agree on a suitable time to begin our work together.
Arula Counselling integrates creative, psychodynamic, mindfulness and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) approaches with a focus on neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed care.
What happens after the consultation call?
If you decide to move forward, I will send you the following three documents:
Referral Form
Referral form is for me to keep your contact details and any relevant information necessary about you. These are all confidential and not shared with any third parties.
Contract
The contract makes it clear to both you and I about what happens during the therapy process. You can look through it in your own time, ask any questions and figure out whether this service is for you. I use DocuSign for signatures.
Invoice
After you've signed the contract, I will send you an invoice which is paid in blocks of 4. If you cancel a session in time (48 hours before the session), I may be able to offer you an alternative time for the same week.
What happens in counselling sessions?
Counselling sessions are a unique and personalised experience, entirely shaped by your individual needs, goals, and what you choose to bring to therapy. Since you are the "expert" on yourself, the process unfolds according to your unique journey.
In these sessions, you can expect a non-judgmental and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. While the core of counselling revolves around verbal discussion, there's also the opportunity to integrate creative and expressive approaches. This might include music listening, meditation, art-making, or even songwriting, if that resonates with you. However, these creative elements are never a requirement; their inclusion is entirely dependent on your preferences and what you feel comfortable with. Ultimately, the aim is to provide a safe and conducive environment for self-discovery, growth, and working towards your desired changes.
How long does counselling last?
The length of counselling is different for everyone. Throughout the counselling process, w will reflect on your progress continuously and assess when and whether it would be a good time to end therapy. You can always discuss ending treatment with together with me when you feel sufficient growth has happened. You are free to stop counselling sessions at any time.
Is my information confidential?
Your privacy is essential to the therapeutic process. Arula Counselling keeps confidential and anonymised notes of your sessions. However, in case of thinking about harming yourself, others, or where I am compelled by law, I am required to share notes with third parties.
Can I get medical help or a diagnosis from you?
As I am not a medical professional, I am not qualified to give you a medical diagnosis. However, if you do require medical help, I can help guide you in finding a doctor or a psychiatrist in Berlin. However, this can be a lengthy process as the services have long waiting lists.
Does health insurance cover counselling?
Sessions are paid privately and are not covered by public health insurance. The benefits of self-paying services are immediate service access and no beauracratic paperwork. As a privately paying client, your mental health records will remain confidential and will not be communicated to your health insurance company.
How much does counselling cost?
The cost of a 50-minute session online or in-person is €90. Supportive Music and Imagery (SMI) is usually a 60-minute session that takes place bi-weekly.
Where should I start?
If you have thoughts about attending counselling but don't know where to start, let’s find the answer together. I look forward to hearing from you.