Question 1

What languages can I speak in during sessions?

Accepted Answer

English, Tamil

Question 2

How would you describe your approach to therapy?

Accepted Answer

My approach to therapy is collaborative, compassionate, and person-centred. I believe each person has a unique story, and that the understanding of the experiences is central to the therapeutic process.

I recognise that our lived experiences are shaped by intersecting aspects of our lives, including culture, gender, relationships, and broader social realities and aim to understand each person within these contexts.

I strive to create a space where you feel heard without judgement and can explore your experiences at your own pace. Together, we may make sense of recurring patterns and explore the stories you hold about yourself and your life.

Beyond reflection and exploration, I recognise the value of practical tools to navigate difficult experiences such as coping strategies, building emotional regulation skills  ensuring it's contextual and relevant

My aim is to support you recognise your strengths, develop a deeper understanding of yourself, and move towards a life that feels more meaningful and authentic to you.

Question 3

What values guide your work with people?

Accepted Answer

I believe that people are more than their struggles, circumstances, or the stories they have come to believe about themselves. I value compassion, curiosity, dignity, and the importance of understanding people within the contexts of their lived experiences. I believe therapy should not be about fitting people into predefined ideas of what it means to be well, but about making space for their individual experiences, perspectives, and possibilities for change. I often return to the idea that being understood, without having to justify or explain every part of yourself, can itself be a meaningful starting point for change.

Question 4

What kind of therapist do you try to be for your clients?

Accepted Answer

I strive to be a therapist who is warm, curious, non-judgemental, and genuine. I want to create a space where people feel comfortable showing up as they are, including the parts of themselves they may find difficult to understand or accept. I value being alongside clients as they make sense of their experiences, rather than assuming I have all the answers. I find meaningful work in helping people develop a different relationship with themselves, recognise patterns that may no longer serve them, and discover possibilities beyond the narratives they have grown accustomed to living with. Above all, I hope clients experience therapy as a space where they feel seen, heard, and respected.

Question 5

What would you say to someone nervous about booking a first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what has brought you to therapy. We will spend some time talking about what has been on your mind, what you might be finding difficult, and what you hope to gain from the process. I may ask questions about your experiences, relationships, and background to better understand your story and the contexts that shape it.

There is no expectation to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say. You can take your time, share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, and ask questions along the way. The first session is also an opportunity for you to get a sense of whether working together feels right for you. We can take it one step at a time.

Question 6

I've never been to therapy before. What should I expect from you?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is a process that unfolds over time and our work together will depend on your experiences, concerns, and what feels important to you at different points in your life.

Some sessions involve exploring your past and making sense of recurring patterns, while others focus on what is happening in the present and finding ways to navigate difficult situations. At times, we may sit with emotions or experiences that are difficult to put into words; at other times, we may work towards specific changes or goals.

You don't need to have all the answers or make progress in a particular way or timeline. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we will keep revisiting what feels helpful and meaningful to you. My hope is that over time, you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, feel more comfortable with your experiences, and find new ways of relating to yourself and the world around you.

Shefaley P - Clinical Psychologist

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