Questions, answered
Before you book
Answers to common questions about counselling at Aptimind, Chennai.
Getting started
How do we know if we need couple counselling?
If conversations keep circling back to the same argument, if you feel more like flatmates than partners, or if a big decision has stalled between you, that’s reason enough to bring in a neutral third person. You don’t need a crisis to start.
How do we book a first session?
Call, WhatsApp, or use the online booking link. We’ll ask a few quick questions to match you with the right counsellor — there’s nothing to fill in beforehand.
What happens in the very first session?
We spend the first session understanding what’s going on for both of you, individually and as a couple, and agree on what the next few sessions will focus on.
What if my partner is reluctant to come?
This is very common. Many people start with an individual session to talk through how to raise it, or simply to begin the work on their own side first — you don’t have to wait for both of you to be ready.
Do you work with couples who aren’t married?
Yes. We see dating couples, engaged couples, married couples, and couples navigating a break-up or separation — the format is the same, the focus adapts to where you are.
Do you only work with couples, or individuals too?
Both. Alongside couple and marital counselling, we see individuals for stress management and career counselling — you don’t need a partner involved to book a session.
During sessions
Do both partners need to attend every session?
Most sessions work best with both partners present, though your counsellor may occasionally suggest a brief individual check-in within the process. We’ll always explain why before changing the format.
Will the counsellor take sides?
No. Our role isn’t to decide who’s right, but to help both of you hear and be heard, and to give you practical tools to communicate outside the couple room too.
Is couple counselling available online?
Yes. We see couples in person at our Ashok Nagar, Chennai centre, and over secure video calls for couples anywhere in India or abroad, including NRI couples across time zones.
What if a session gets tense or a fight starts?
That’s normal, and your counsellor is trained to pause it safely rather than let it run — the room is structured specifically so a real disagreement can happen without it turning into the same unproductive fight you have at home.
How soon can we expect things to feel different?
Many couples notice a shift in how arguments feel by session three or four, though lasting change in long-standing patterns usually takes longer. Your counsellor will be honest with you about realistic timelines for your situation.
Practical
How much does a session cost?
Fees depend on session type (in-person or online) and format. Message us on WhatsApp or call and we’ll share current pricing before you book.
How long does counselling usually take?
It varies — some couples find clarity in a handful of sessions, others prefer ongoing biweekly support. We review pace together every few sessions, nothing is a fixed contract.
Is what we share confidential?
Yes. Sessions are confidential between you and your counsellor, in line with standard professional practice, and nothing is shared with the other partner without consent in cases of individual check-ins.
What are your session timings?
We offer daytime and evening slots across the week to work around typical office hours — message us on WhatsApp and we’ll share current availability.
What’s your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Life happens — let us know as early as you can via WhatsApp or phone and we’ll find another slot. We just ask for reasonable notice out of fairness to other couples waiting for time.
About our counsellors
Are your counsellors licensed and trained specifically in couple work?
Yes. Our counsellors have specific training in couple and relationship work, not only general individual therapy, and bring over a decade of combined experience across Chennai.
Will we see the same counsellor every session?
Yes, continuity matters — you’ll work with the same counsellor throughout, unless you specifically request a change.
Can we choose a male or female counsellor?
Where possible, yes — let us know your preference when you reach out and we’ll do our best to match you.
