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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about counselling, sessions, payments, and confidentiality.

Counselling Services

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At Renewed Balance, we offer individual counselling, couples counselling, and wellness retreats. Our services are designed to help you navigate personal challenges, improve relationships, and promote emotional well-being.

Counselling is for anyone seeking support, guidance, or personal growth. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, low mood, relationship issues, life transitions, or simply want to explore self-discovery, our services are tailored to meet your unique needs.

Yes, our counsellors are experienced in addressing a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and more. We tailor our approach to meet your unique needs.

Our counsellors are registered and accredited professionals with extensive training and experience in counselling and psychotherapy. They are registered with the Association for Supportive Counsellors and Holistic Practitioners (ASCHP), South Africa’s leading professional body for counsellors and holistic practitioners. This ensures that they adhere to strict ethical guidelines and maintain the highest standards of practice.

You can verify their registration and learn more about the ASCHP’s commitment to professional excellence by visiting their website: www.aschp.co.za.

Our counsellors are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to support your emotional well-being and personal growth.

About Online Counselling

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Sessions take place via secure video call using a professional telehealth platform. Before your appointment, you'll receive a link to join the session. All you need is a private, quiet space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or smartphone). Online therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions, with the added convenience of being in your own comfortable environment.

Yes! Research consistently shows that online therapy is just as effective as traditional in-person counselling for most mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and stress management. Many clients find that the comfort and convenience of online sessions actually helps them open up more easily.

Don't worry—technology issues happen! If we lose connection, simply try to rejoin using the same link. If problems persist, I'll contact you via phone or WhatsApp to troubleshoot or reschedule. Any lost session time due to technical difficulties will be made up.

Choose a private, quiet space where you won't be interrupted for the duration of the session. This could be a bedroom, home office, or even your car. The key is finding somewhere you feel comfortable speaking openly without being overheard.

Currently, we only offer virtual sessions which are conducted via secure video platforms for your convenience and safety.

Sessions & Scheduling

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The first session is about getting to know each other. We'll discuss what brings you to counselling, your goals, your history (as you're comfortable sharing), and any questions you have about the process. It's a safe space to share at your own pace. I'll also explain how therapy works and what you can expect going forward. By the end, we'll have a clearer picture of how to move forward together.

Individual counselling and most other sessions are 50 minutes. Couples counselling sessions are 60 minutes. The free initial consultation is 15 minutes. These timeframes allow for meaningful work while respecting your time and schedule.

This varies greatly depending on your individual needs, goals, and the complexity of what you're working through. Some clients find relief and develop effective strategies in 4-6 sessions, while others prefer ongoing support over several months. We'll regularly review your progress together and adjust as needed. You're always in control of your therapeutic journey.

You can book sessions directly through our online booking system on the website, or contact me via WhatsApp or email. I offer flexible scheduling including some evening slots to accommodate different schedules.

I understand that life happens. Please provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Late cancellations, missed sessions and late arrivals are covered by my Booking Policy, which helps me manage my schedule and ensure availability for all clients.

Fees & Payment

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Individual counselling sessions are R550, couples counselling is R850, and the initial 15-minute consultation is free. All fees are due at the time of booking or before the session. Please visit the Services page for a complete list of offerings and prices.

I accept EFT (bank transfer), credit/debit card payments through our secure payment portal, and cash (for in-person sessions when available). Payment should be made before or immediately after the session.

I am not currently registered as a medical aid provider, so direct claims may not be possible. However, some medical aids offer out-of-network benefits or savings account claims. I can provide you with a detailed invoice that you can submit to your medical aid for possible reimbursement. Please check with your specific provider.

Our wellness retreats offer varied packages to suit different needs and preferences. Each package is designed to provide a unique and enriching experience, and pricing will depend on the duration, activities, and accommodations included. Payment options will be made available to ensure flexibility and convenience. Please contact us for detailed information about retreat packages and payment plans.

Our wellness retreats offer a variety of packages tailored to meet your unique needs and preferences. Each package is thoughtfully designed to provide a holistic experience, including accommodations, meals, workshops, and wellness activities such as yoga, meditation, and nature excursions.

Rates vary depending on the duration of the retreat, the type of accommodations, and the specific activities included. We also offer flexible payment options to make your wellness journey accessible and stress-free.

For detailed information about our retreat packages, pricing, and payment plans, please reach out to us. We’d love to help you find the perfect retreat to support your well-being and personal growth!

Confidentiality & Ethics

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Absolutely. Everything discussed in our sessions is strictly confidential. I adhere to professional ethical guidelines and POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act). The only exceptions to confidentiality are: if there's an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, if there's suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable person, or if required by law (e.g., court order). In such rare cases, I would discuss this with you first wherever possible.

Yes, I maintain brief confidential notes as required by professional standards. These are stored securely and are never shared without your written consent. You have the right to request access to your records at any time.

I take data protection seriously. All digital records are encrypted and stored securely in compliance with POPIA. Video sessions use secure, encrypted platforms designed for healthcare. Your personal information is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent.

Getting Started

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If you're asking this question, you might already be ready! Common signs include: feeling stuck or overwhelmed, struggling with recurring issues, wanting to understand yourself better, going through a difficult life transition, or simply feeling that something isn't quite right. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy—it's also a powerful tool for personal growth and prevention.

The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy. That's why I offer a free 15-minute consultation—so we can meet, discuss your needs, and see if we're a good fit before you commit. Trust your instincts: if you feel comfortable and heard, that's a great sign!

Absolutely! It's completely normal to feel nervous, anxious, or even uncertain about starting therapy. Opening up to someone new takes courage. Please know that I create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can move at your own pace. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with, especially in early sessions.

Absolutely! We offer free 15-minute consultations to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you determine if our services are the right fit for you.

Still Have Questions?

I'm here to help. Reach out and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Book your free 15-minute consultation and let's discuss how I can support you.