FAQ's

1. What is the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy and counselling are both types of talk therapy, but they differ mainly in depth and duration. Counselling is usually short-term and focused on specific issues that have lasted less than 6 months, such as stress, decision-making, or relationship problems. It helps you cope with current challenges. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, is more in-depth and long-term, often used for emotional or mental health issues that have lasted for 2 years or more, such as depression, trauma, or anxiety. It aims to uncover deeper patterns and bring lasting change by working through past experiences and emotions. Psychotherapy is usually part of a comprehensive treatment plan and follows a structured, evidence-based protocol.

2. Do counselling and psychotherapy change based on each person's needs?

Counselling and psychotherapy are not the same for everyone. They are tailored, meaning they are planned and carried out in a way that fits each person's unique needs, problems, and life situation. What works for one person may not work for another, so the therapist adjusts their approach based on the person’s feelings, history, and goals. This makes the support more effective and personal. For many clients, the past still affects the present, so therapy often focuses on how past experiences shape current thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. This approach often falls under bottom-up therapies, which focus on body sensations and emotional experiences first, helping to process trauma and regulate the nervous system before moving to thoughts and beliefs.

3. What are trauma-informed therapies?

Trauma-informed therapies are types of treatment that understand how trauma affects a person’s mind, body, and behavior. These therapies are gentle and safe, helping people feel in control, respected, and supported. They focus on building trust, creating a safe space, and carefully working through painful experiences without causing more harm. In addition to healing, trauma-informed therapies also help develop mastery skills (internal), relational skills (external), and symbolic skills (spiritual), supporting the person’s growth in all areas of life.

4. Why is recovery capital important for healing and staying well?

Recovery capital means the strengths and supports a person has that help them heal and stay well, especially after addiction or trauma. It includes things like support from family and friends, good health, a safe place to live, a job or purpose, and access to therapy or community services. The more recovery capital a person has, the better their chances of staying strong and moving forward in life. It’s like having tools and support to build a better future.

5. Why do we need a neutral place when starting our journey?

We need a neutral place when we start our journey because it helps us feel safe and supported. It’s a space where we can express ourselves honestly without worrying about being judged or criticized. A neutral place allows us to focus on healing, take small steps forward, and be open to new possibilities. It helps create trust and makes it easier to begin the process of recovery or growth.

6. Why do we need to stay halfway home after finishing 6 months of therapy?

We may need to stay in a halfway home after finishing 6 months of therapy to continue healing in a safe and supportive place. It is a home away from home, not a rehab. It gives us time to adjust slowly, practice what we learned in therapy, and build a healthy daily routine. People can stay there for 6 months to 2 years, depending on their needs. It helps us become stronger, more independent, and ready to return to everyday life with confidence.

7. What are some self-care strategies for a client?

Self-care strategies for a client include simple habits that help them feel better and take care of their mind and body. These can include getting enough sleep, eating healthy food, exercising regularly, and taking breaks when feeling stressed. It also means finding activities that make them feel relaxed, like reading, walking in nature, or doing something creative. Practicing mindfulness, talking to someone they trust, and setting boundaries are also important. Self-care helps a client stay balanced and manage their emotions, making it easier to handle challenges—beyond just reacting to safety concerns, threats, or the need for a bystander.

8. What are some factors that can block progress in therapy?

There are several factors that can block progress in therapy. These can include things like not feeling comfortable or trusting the therapist, being afraid to open up, or feeling misunderstood. Sometimes, a person’s past experiences or fear of change can make it hard to fully participate. Other times, mental health issues like anxiety or depression might make it difficult to focus or stay engaged. External factors, like a lack of time, support, or a stressful environment, can also get in the way of therapy being effective.

9. Are there any secondary gains a client can get from taking therapy sessions?

Yes, sometimes clients may experience secondary gains from therapy, which are benefits they might not have expected but still find helpful. For example, a person might feel more attention or care from others while going through therapy, which can make them feel valued. Therapy might also provide an excuse to avoid certain situations or responsibilities, like work or social events, because they are focusing on their healing. These secondary gains can sometimes make it harder for a person to fully work through their issues, but they can be identified and addressed to ensure the therapy is still helpful in the long run.

10. Are therapy sessions confidential?

Yes, therapy sessions are private and confidential. This means that whatever you share with your therapist stays between you and them. Therapists are trained to respect your privacy and create a safe space where you can talk freely. They will not tell anyone what you say, unless there is a serious risk of harm to you or someone else. In that case, they may need to share information to keep everyone safe. But most of the time, everything you say in therapy stays private.

11. How much does a therapy session cost?

A therapy session usually costs between INR. 2000 to 6000, depending on the type of therapy and the therapist’s training and experience. Some therapists use special methods or have more skills, which can make the session cost more. The cost may also change based on how long the session is. Prefer prepayment, which means paying before the session starts, to confirm the booking and avoid last-minute cancellations.

12. How many sessions are usually needed in psychotherapy, and how long does each session last?

In psychotherapy, the number of sessions can vary depending on the person’s needs and the type of therapy. Normally, a person may have anywhere from 8 to 20 sessions, but some people may need long-term therapy for several months or even years. Each session usually lasts about 45 to 90 minutes. Some therapies may have shorter or longer sessions depending on the method used. The therapist and client decide together how many sessions are needed and whether they should meet on a daily or weekly basis.

13. What is NNATTI and how does it help clients?

NNATTI is our new research center that focuses on helping clients who have not improved with regular treatments. It is made for people who need special care because their problems are more complex or long-lasting. At NNATTI, we use advanced methods and new ideas to support healing and recovery. The center is a safe and supportive place for those who need a different approach to feel better.

14. Is NNATTI a private company or what type of firm is it?

NNATTI Centre for Systemic Effective Trauma Therapy is an LLP (Limited Liability Partnership) registered in India. It is classified under "Mental Health Care" services. The firm is active and was established on October 9, 2024, with its registered office located in Vyttila, Kochi, Kerala.

15. Is NNATTI a private company or what type of firm is it?

NNATTI focuses on helping people who have experienced trauma and do not respond well to regular treatments. It is a research-based institution that works to find better ways to support these clients. The team at NNATTI studies new methods and therapies to help people heal, especially those with long-term or complex problems. Their goal is to give hope and effective care to those who need special support.

16. What do you do in follow-up sessions after treatment?

In follow-up sessions after treatment, we check how the person is doing and if they are feeling better. We talk about any changes or problems they may have and give support if needed. These sessions help make sure the person stays well and does not feel alone. If needed, we also give more help or new ways to cope. It is a way to continue care and make sure the healing continues.

17. Can one visit be enough to feel better?

Sometimes one visit can help a person feel a little better, especially if they just need to talk or understand something. But for most people, more sessions are needed to fully heal and feel strong again. Healing the mind takes time, just like healing the body. Regular sessions give more support and help find better ways to deal with problems. One visit can be a good start, but follow-up care is often important.

18. How long will I need treatment? Is it something I can fully heal from?

The length of treatment depends on the person and the type of issue they are dealing with. Some people might feel better after a few sessions, while others might need longer to fully heal. It's possible to heal from many problems with the right treatment, but it can take time and effort. Everyone’s journey is different, and treatment helps to manage and improve symptoms, so healing is possible, but it may take ongoing support.

19. What types of treatment do you offer at your center?

At our center, we offer two main types of treatment: 21-day and 6-month intensive therapy programs. These programs are specially designed for people with complex trauma who have not responded well to other treatments. We also provide comprehensive treatments for trauma clients to help them heal and manage their challenges. Our focus is on offering strong support in a safe and caring environment.

20. Will I be fully healed after the 6-month intensive program?

The 6-month intensive program can help you make significant progress in healing, but complete healing can take time and depends on the person. Everyone’s journey is different, and while the program provides strong support and effective treatments, it may require ongoing care and effort after the program to continue healing. Many people find great improvement, but healing is a process that may take longer for some.

21. Is the cost the same for one month and the 6-month program?

The cost for the one-month program and the 6-month program is usually different. The 6-month program is longer and more intensive, so it typically costs more than the one-month program. Prices can vary depending on the treatment and the support you need.

22. If I relapse, will my therapist be the same person during intensive therapy or will it be a new one?

If you relapse, it’s likely that you will continue with the same therapist during intensive therapy, especially if you've built a good relationship with them. However, in some cases, you may be assigned a new therapist depending on availability or specific treatment needs.

23. If I relapse and get a new therapist, do I need to explain everything from the start, or do you have records of my treatment?

If you relapse and are assigned a new therapist, you may not need to explain everything from the beginning. We keep records of your previous sessions, which can help the new therapist understand your treatment history. However, the new therapist might still want to talk with you to make sure they fully understand your current needs and challenges.

24. Can I get a copy of my treatment file for legal reasons? Or when can I get it if I need it?

We will only share your treatment file if there is a legal request from the court or police. Otherwise, if you need the file for referral purposes, we will send it to the email of the person you were referred to.

25. Do you include family members in the treatment process?

We include parents or spouses in the treatment process for clients who are under 25 years old. However, for clients above 25 years, we do not include family members in the treatment procedure. This policy helps ensure that the treatment process is focused on the individual while considering the needs of younger clients who may need family support.

26. Are online sessions effective, and is the cost the same for both online and offline sessions?

Online sessions can be effective and provide good support, especially for people who cannot attend in person. They offer the same treatment and care as offline sessions, but the experience might feel a bit different. The cost for both online and offline sessions is the same.

27. Why is it important to be on video during online sessions?

Being on video during online sessions is important because it helps the therapist see your facial expressions and body language, which can provide helpful clues about how you're feeling. It also helps create a more personal connection and makes the session feel more like an in-person meeting. Video allows for better communication and understanding, which can improve the effectiveness of the therapy.

28. Do you keep recordings of online sessions?

We keep recordings of online sessions only when necessary for specific reasons, such as training or supervision. If recordings are made, they are stored securely and used only for the intended purpose. We will always ask for your consent before recording any session, and your privacy and confidentiality are our top priorities.

29. Will you use these recordings without our consent?

No, we will never use any recordings without your consent. Your privacy is very important to us, and any recordings will only be used for the purposes we’ve discussed, such as training or supervision, with your permission. We will always ask for your approval before recording, and we make sure the recordings are stored securely and only used as agreed.

30. Do you offer counseling for school children and provide a report when they finish the recommended sessions?

We do offer counseling for school children, but we do not typically provide a report after they finish the recommended sessions. Our focus is on helping the child work through their challenges and providing support during the process.

31. Are parenting sessions required for children's counseling? Do both parents need to be present?

Yes, parenting sessions are required for children's counseling. It is important for both parents to be present, as this helps ensure that both parents are involved in the child's progress and can support the treatment process. Having both parents attend can provide a better understanding of how to help the child and work together in making positive changes.

32. Why should I attend Somatic therapy if I have issues with my thoughts? How can Somatic therapy help me connect with my issues?

Somatic therapy can help you connect with your issues, even if your main concern is with your thoughts. It focuses on how your body responds to your emotions and experiences, helping you become more aware of physical sensations that may be linked to your thoughts and feelings. By addressing both the mind and the body, Somatic therapy can help you release tension, understand your emotions better, and create a deeper connection to your thoughts and experiences, leading to improved healing and self-awareness.

33. Why should I attend music therapy if listening to music didn’t help me calm down? Are you teaching music, and why should I pay for a trainer to do music therapy?

Music therapy is different from just listening to music on your own. A trained music therapist uses music in specific ways to help you express emotions, reduce stress, and promote healing. The therapist tailors the sessions to your needs, guiding you through activities that can help you connect with your feelings and calm your mind in ways that listening alone may not. Paying for a trained professional ensures that the therapy is structured and effective for your emotional and mental well-being, rather than just listening passively to music.

34. If dancing didn’t help me, why should I try movement therapy? Are you teaching dance, and what’s the reason to pay for a trainer to guide me in movement therapy?

If dancing didn’t help you, movement therapy might still be beneficial because it focuses on using movement to improve emotional and physical well-being, not just for dance. A trained movement therapist uses specific techniques to help you connect with your body, release tension, and address emotions. Unlike regular dance, movement therapy is tailored to your needs and goals. Paying for a trained therapist ensures that the movements and exercises are structured to support your healing process in a way that can be more effective than dancing on your own.