What to expect in therapy – thecuriouswe.com

Starting therapy

What does an introduction call feel like?
The intro call is your chance to see if talking with me feels comfortable. I’ll explain how I work and answer any questions you have. It’s really about seeing if we’re a good fit and if this feels like the right place for you.

What happens before our first session?
Before we start, you’ll fill out an intake form with some basic information and emergency contacts. We’ll also review an informed consent contract together so you understand how I keep things safe, confidential, and respectful.

How do the first few therapy sessions feel?
The first session is like painting a picture of your life. It might feel a little messy or all over the place, and that’s totally okay. This is where we start building trust and getting comfortable with each other. There’s no pressure, just a space to begin sharing your story and what you would like to explore.

Info and fees

What is the length of your sessions, and what is your fee structure?
Each session lasts for one hour.
Fee per session: ₹2500 per session.

How do I handle payment and booking?
It’s simple: sessions need to be booked and paid for at least 24 hours in advance. If you’re unsure about how to pay or need a hand with booking, just let me know. I’m here to make things as easy as possible for you.

What is your cancellation/rescheduling and no-show policy?
We get it, life can be unpredictable!
More than 24 hours’ notice: Full refund.
4-24 hours’ notice: 50% refund.
Less than 4 hours’ notice or no-show: Full session fee applies.
The same policy applies to both cancellations and rescheduling.

As the Process Unfolds

How long will therapy last?
Some people find a few sessions helpful around a specific challenge or transition. Others choose to stay longer as we explore deeper patterns. Together, we’ll find an approach and pace that feels right for you.

Why does it feel like nothing is happening?
There is no right pace at which therapy should unfold. Some people notice shifts early on, while for others change emerges more gradually. Some sessions may leave you with clarity, while others may leave you with questions. Both can be valuable.
It can be helpful to wonder:
What am I noticing about myself that I couldn’t see before?
What feels different in the way I relate to others?
What feels possible now that didn’t before?
What did I want for myself when I started therapy, and how do I feel about that now?

Is it normal to have nothing to talk about in therapy?
There may be sessions where you arrive feeling like nothing much has happened or you’re unsure what to bring. This is a common part of therapy. Therapy isn’t only about having a crisis to discuss or a breakthrough to report. Sometimes the work lies in slowing down and paying attention to what feels ordinary, unclear, or difficult to put into words.

Can I reduce therapy sessions or stop therapy?
There is no “right” time to end therapy. You may choose to meet less often, take a break, or bring therapy to a close as your needs change. Your feedback is important, whether it’s about the pace of therapy, what’s feeling helpful, or what’s not. These conversations are always welcome. Therapy should be something you actively choose, not something you continue out of obligation. If and when you’re ready to end therapy, I invite you to make space for a final conversation to reflect on what feels complete and what you’ll carry forward.

A note on research:
While every therapy journey is unique, my approach is informed by both clinical experience and evidence from psychotherapy research on how growth and change unfold over time.
Flückiger, Del Re, Wampold & Horvath (2018). The alliance in adult psychotherapy: A meta-analytic synthesis.
Robinson, Delgadillo & Kellett (2020). The dose-response effect in routinely delivered psychological therapies: A systematic review.
Gaskell et al. (2023). The Effectiveness of Psychological Interventions Delivered in Routine Practice: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
MetaPsy. Who Benefits From Treatment?

Frequently asked questions

Is there anything I need to prepare for my first session?

Not really, just come as you are. Some people find it helpful to jot down thoughts or goals beforehand, but there’s no pressure. We’ll take it at your pace.

How often do we meet?

Many people begin with weekly or fortnightly sessions.

Are sessions confidential?

Absolutely. What we talk about stays between us, unless you give me written permission to share. The only exceptions are if I suspect abuse of children or the elderly, or if you express intent to harm yourself or someone else. Ideally, we’ll discuss any of these situations together and decide how to proceed.
We’ll go over confidentiality in detail during our intro call and in the informed consent contract, so please ask if you have any questions.

Are sliding scale options available?

Yes! I offer a few sliding scale spots to help make therapy more accessible. Feel free to bring this up during our introduction call.

What if my financial circumstances change and I can no longer afford therapy?

If your financial circumstances change, please talk to me about it. Depending on availability, we may be able to explore a sliding-scale fee or adjust the frequency of sessions. I’d much rather have a conversation about it than have finances become a source of stress.

What are your workdays and response times?

I respond to scheduling messages and emails during my workdays, which are Tuesday to Saturday. Please note, Sunday and Monday are my days off. I’ll get back to you as soon as possible during my working hours.