Your Curiosity Space

Dr Roopa's Psych Care Frequently Question asked

Not at all. Despite growing awareness, a persistent stigma surrounds the idea of seeking help from a psychologist or counselor. Many people mistakenly equate vulnerability with weakness, when in fact, those who choose to seek support are often the strongest—they are courageous enough to confront their struggles, share their experiences, and reflect on areas where growth is needed.

Hesitation often stems from a deeper discomfort: the fear of acknowledging that one might be wrong, or lacking in certain life skills or perspectives. This resistance is rooted in the misconception that external help is futile because situations and people will not change. However, psychological support is not about changing others—it is about gaining clarity, objectivity, and emotional resilience within ourselves.

Human beings naturally struggle to be objective about their own thoughts and feelings. A trained professional offers a mirror, a safe space, and structured insight that helps individuals navigate their inner world more effectively. Life is a continuous journey of learning and growth, and seeking help is not a sign of failure—it is a proactive step toward living more consciously and fully. Counselling is for anyone who wishes to understand themselves better, handle emotions, or improve relationships.

You do not have to be “broken” to seek help — you just need to be human. Life brings challenges to everyone, and counselling simply helps you face them with more clarity and calm.

Strength is not about never needing help; it is about knowing when to reach for it.

Even the most capable people sometimes feel stuck, confused, or emotionally tired. Counselling does not make you weak — it helps you use your strength more wisely and peacefully. A form is attached here to judge whether you need counselling or not?

You can use this self-reflection quiz to determine your need -

Instructions: Read each statement and rate how true it feels for you over the past 2–3 weeks. Use the scale below:

0 – Not at all true

1 – Slightly true

2 – Moderately true

3 – Very true

4 – Extremely true

Statements

I often feel overwhelmed by my thoughts or emotions.

I find it hard to talk openly about my struggles with people around me.

I feel stuck in patterns that I know are unhealthy but cannot seem to change.

I frequently experience sadness, anxiety, or irritability without clear reasons.

I avoid situations or people because they trigger discomfort or fear.

I feel disconnected from my goals, values, or sense of purpose.

I struggle to concentrate or make decisions due to emotional stress.

I feel like no one truly understands what I am going through.

I have noticed changes in my sleep, appetite, or energy levels.

I often criticize myself harshly or feel like I am not “good enough.”

I have experienced a recent loss, trauma, or major life change that I have not processed.

I feel like I am pretending to be okay when I am not.

I avoid seeking help because I believe I should “handle it myself.”

I feel emotionally exhausted or burnt out.

I am curious about understanding myself better, even if I am not in crisis.

Scoring Guide

0–15: You may not need counseling right now, but self-care and reflection are still important.

16–30: You might benefit from talking to a counselor to explore underlying patterns and build resilience.

31–45: Counseling is strongly recommended. You are carrying a lot, and support can help you process and grow.

46–60: Immediate consultation is advised. You deserve support, clarity, and relief—help is available.

Yes — more than you might imagine.

When you talk in a safe, private space, your mind begins to organize thoughts and emotions that were tangled inside. A professional listener helps you see patterns, beliefs, and options you may never have noticed.

That clarity itself starts the healing process.

That is completely okay. Many people struggle to find the right words — especially at first.

It is my task to help you feel comfortable and guide the conversation gently. With time, expression becomes easier and lighter.

It depends on the nature of your concern. Some clients feel relief within a few sessions; others continue longer for deeper work. We will review progress together and adjust as needed — there’s no fixed rule. The goal is meaningful, lasting improvement, not just quick relief.

Frankly speaking, this responsibility is both serious and sensitive. It is essential that the client understands this and allows themselves to open up truthfully—doing so makes a significant difference in the therapeutic process.

Typically, the first session is dedicated to case-taking, which means the client may feel they are paying but not receiving immediate solutions. This can lead to discomfort and a loss of trust in the therapist. To address this, I personally believe the first session should be extended to at least 1.5 to 2 hours. This allows enough time to build rapport, gather meaningful insights, and offer some initial guidance.

In most cases, 2–3 sessions are sufficient to resolve a major portion of the concerns. However, some individuals may require more sessions depending on the complexity of their situation. As I’ve said before, it completely depends on the person and their unique context.

Absolutely. Everything you share remains strictly confidential. Your privacy, safety, and dignity are my top priorities.

First, counselors are trained professionals who offer objective, structured support without personal bias. Second, counseling is confidential and bound by ethical standards—something informal conversations cannot guarantee. Third, it is goal-oriented, helping clients identify patterns, build coping strategies, and work through deeper emotional challenges. "In my experience, most people seek counseling after a breach of trust or when life becomes emotionally complex. Our social world rarely offers a space free from judgment." While loved ones provide comfort, counseling offers clarity, tools, and transformation.

Unfortunately, the stigma around mental health still exists — but it is slowly changing. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as caring for your body. Choosing counselling is a sign of maturity and self-awareness, not weakness. Counselling is not about fixing you — it is about freeing you to live more peacefully, truthfully, and fully.

You can choose life, growth, and real solutions—or spend your energy worrying about people who may judge you. Counseling is a courageous step toward clarity and healing. Let others have their opinions; your priority should be your well-being and progress.

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