Frequently Asked Questions

We believe the connection between you and your therapist is the most important part of healing. Choosing a therapist who speaks your language and understands your culture can make it easier to express yourself and feel understood. They’re more likely to "get" you, your background and culture, beliefs and values. This helps offer mental health support that truly fits your experiences and needs. At TCT, the therapists speak at least one other language in addition to English. Read their profiles to know about their skills, experiences and what languages they speak.

There is no "right" reason to start therapy. You might seek help because you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, sad or just unsure of how to handle your emotions. Others come to us to improve their relationships, navigate a big life change, or simply understand themselves better. If your feelings are interfering with your daily life, sleep, or work, it’s a good time to reach out. You don’t need to be “at your worst” to reach out - sometimes even small concerns deserve space, support, and guidance.

Think of the first session as a "get to know you" meeting. Your therapist will likely ask what brought you here, about your background, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. You don’t need to have all the answers; it’s just a safe space to share your story. You can also ask your therapist questions to see if you feel comfortable with their style. This session helps build a foundation of trust and helps the therapist understand how they can best support you.

Progress looks different for everyone, may take longer for some people and can vary. Setting expectations early is good practice. Progress can look like - improved coping skills, increased self-awareness or better understanding of your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. You might notice you’re handled a difficult situation more calmly than before, or you might simply feel a sense of relief after talking. Over time, you’ll find you have better "tools" to manage your emotions and a clearer understanding of your thoughts. If you're unsure or think therapy is not working, discuss this with your therapist as they can adjust approaches to better meet your needs, or if necessary, help you find another therapist who might be a better fit.

The length of therapy is entirely up to you! It varies depending on your goals, the type of therapy, and personal needs. Some people find what they need in 8–12 sessions for a specific issue, while others prefer long-term support for deeper personal growth. It's a personal journey, and your therapist can guide you to create a plan that aligns with your goals.

If you are in a crisis or an emergency, please contact your local emergency services or a 24/7 crisis hotline immediately, where trained professionals can support you. Therapy sessions are scheduled appointments and are not designed for instant emergency response. We can provide a list of local resources and helplines for you to keep on hand.

The "best" therapist is someone you feel safe with. When choosing a therapist, some factors to consider include the therapist’s experience, their training, their approach, what languages they speak, their cultural understanding, and their specialty areas. It is always helpful to schedule an initial call with them to see if you feel comfortable and understood. At the Talking Couch Therapy, we offer an initial 15-minute consultation call with your therapist, after which you can decide if you'd like to continue with them for therapy. After a session or two, ask yourself: Do I feel respected in my therapeutic relationship? Do I feel like my therapist "gets" me? It’s okay to try a different therapist if the first one doesn’t feel like a good fit—your comfort is the priority.

Most people start with once a week. This helps build momentum and a strong relationship with your therapist. As you start to feel better and reach your goals, you might move to once every two weeks or once a month. The frequency of sessions depends on your needs, goals, and preferences. If you are new to therapy, discussing it with your therapist is helpful. If you have previously had therapy and are resuming your journey, simply let your therapist know. You can decide to adjust the frequency as you progress.

Yes! Remote therapy sessions allow you to connect with the best expert for your needs, regardless of where they live. However, at TCT, we always ensure that our therapists are legally allowed to practice in your location and that they understand your cultural context. We strive to practice ethically and within our competencies. If we are unable to work with you due to limitations around the legislations of our practice, we will signpost you to another therapist who may hold qualifications to practice in your region.

Psychologists/Therapists focus on "talk therapy"—helping you work through emotions and behaviors. They generally cannot prescribe medication. They will use different approaches such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and so on to provide talking-type therapeutic support. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health and can prescribe medication. If you aren't sure where to start, a therapist is a great first step. They can help you determine if medication might be a helpful addition and refer you to a psychiatrist if needed.