Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Online Counselling
&
Session Format
Do online counselling sessions really work?
Yes. Research consistently shows that online counselling can be as effective as in-person sessions for many concerns, particularly when sessions are structured, relational and consistent.
Online work allows you to engage from a familiar environment, reduces logistical barriers, and often makes it easier to sustain regular sessions over time.
Are all sessions online?
Yes. All sessions are currently conducted online via secure video calls.
Do sessions have to be on video?
Video sessions are preferred, as seeing facial expressions and non-verbal cues is an important part of psychological work.
If video is not possible, audio-only sessions can be considered. In such cases, both parties remain audio-only rather than one person being on camera and the other not, as this helps maintain balance and comfort in the session.
What to Expect from Counselling Sessions
What does the first session look like?
The first session is a space to understand what is bringing you in and to get a feel for how we might work together.
You do not need to arrive with a clear narrative or solutions. The focus is on gathering context, understanding concerns, and beginning to shape goals. Interventions may or may not be offered in the first session, depending on what is appropriate.
What if I don’t know what to say in a session?
That is completely okay.
You can begin with something small or recent, or simply say that you are unsure where to start. If you’re unsure where to begin, I’ll offer gentle prompts and questions to help you find a starting point, without pressure.
How many sessions should I try before deciding whether to continue?
It is generally recommended to allow at least three sessions before deciding whether to continue with any practitioner.
This allows enough time to understand concerns, working styles, and whether the process feels like a good fit.
How long is each session?
Individual Counselling sessions are 50 minutes
Couples Counselling sessions are 60 minutes
Individual Wellness Sessions are 30 minutes
More details are available on the Services page.
how do you approach goals and direction in counselling?
Early in our work together, we take time to clarify what you are hoping for from counselling and what growth might look like for you. This helps create a shared sense of direction rather than working aimlessly or reactively.
Goals are not rigid or performance-based. They are revisited and refined as we gain a deeper understanding of your concerns, capacities and circumstances. At different stages, the focus may be on stabilisation, insight, skill-building or change.
My intention is not to keep you in counselling indefinitely, but to support meaningful progress, increased self-understanding, and greater confidence in navigating life independently. The work is collaborative and the pace is adjusted to ensure growth is sustainable and grounded.
Counselling vs wellness Sessions &
How The Process works
What is the difference between counselling and wellness sessions?
Wellness sessions are for individuals who want a space to reflect, maintain balance and strengthen everyday functioning.
Counselling sessions are more intensive and are intended for those looking to heal, process emotional difficulties, or work through deeper patterns affecting their life or relationships.
If deeper concerns emerge during a wellness session, a counselling session may be recommended so the work remains supportive and appropriate.
Will I be given things to do between sessions?
At times, you may be invited to reflect, journal or try small practices between sessions.
These are offered as tools to support insight and skill-building. They are not meant to create pressure or obligation but meant to serve your process and support independence.
How long does counselling usually take?
Counselling is a process rather than a quick fix.
Since there is no fixed timeline, some concerns may be addressed over a few sessions, such as navigating a specific decision or transition. Others may take longer, particularly when working with patterns, relationships or emotional regulation. Goals are discussed collaboratively and revisited as work progresses so that changes remain meaningful and sustainable.
How do we measure progress?
Progress is reviewed together.
Progress is reviewed through ongoing conversations, reflection on goals, changes in daily functioning, emotional regulation and increased clarity or confidence over time by comparing it to the goals we took time to clarify at the start of counselling. The process is collaborative rather than checklist-driven.
Scope of Care
Do I need medication?
Medication is not prescribed as part of counselling.
Some individuals benefit from medication alongside counselling, while others do not need it. If medication becomes relevant, this can be discussed and appropriate referrals can be suggested.
What if I am in acute distress?
Support can be offered during periods of heightened distress, provided your needs do not require inpatient care, psychotropic medication management, or round-the-clock availability.
If you require intensive or emergency support, appropriate referrals will be recommended to ensure you receive the level of care you need.
Bookings, Boundaries & Professional Services
How do payments and bookings work?
Sessions are booked and paid for in advance. Appointments should be scheduled at least 24 hours prior.
Cancellation and rescheduling are likewise, done 24 hours prior. Policies are shared at the time of booking.
Can I contact you between sessions?
Brief logistical communication is welcome. Ongoing therapeutic work is reserved for sessions to maintain clarity, boundaries and effectiveness.
Do you work with corporates or organisations?
Yes.
Professional and organisational services include leadership consultancy, group leadership workshops and psychoeducative wellness sessions.
Details are discussed based on organisational needs and scope. You may reach out via email (joshuativade1@gmail.com) to explore this further.
Is leadership or organisational work therapy?
No.
Leadership consultancy and organisational wellness sessions are psychologically informed but are not therapy. They are designed for professional and organisational development within clearly defined boundaries that focus on insight, functioning, leadership development, and systems rather than clinical treatment.
If I’m unsure what I need, what should I do?
If you are unsure where you fit or what you need, clarity often emerges through conversation. You are not expected to have everything figured out before reaching out.
You may book a session directly or contact me via email to explore what might be most appropriate.