FAQ's
Here to help you feel informed and comfortable as you begin
What can I expect from therapy?
Therapy is a collaborative space where you can explore your experiences, thoughts, and emotions with care and curiosity. In our sessions, you'll be listened to without judgment, and supported to better understand yourself, navigate challenges, and move toward the changes you want to make. Some sessions may feel more exploratory, while others focus on practical tools or deeper healing, depending on your needs.
How long are sessions?
Sessions are typically 51 minutes long. Extended sessions for couples or more intensive work may be arranged if needed. We will discuss what feels most useful for you at the start of therapy and review this over time.
What’s your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Sessions cancelled with less notice, or missed without notice, will be charged at the full session fee. This policy allows me to offer that time to another client in need.
Do you work with medical aid?
We are affiliated with all the major medical aid schemes and claim on behalf of clients after their consultation sessions. We also charge medical aid rates, if you are to use your medical aid to cover therapy.
To determine whether you are covered and for how many sessions, it is best to first confirm with your medical aid scheme directly. If your medical aid does not cover psychological interventions or your funds are depleted, you will be responsible for the fees and can chat directly with my billing administrator on billing@thelisteningplace.co.za.
I also assist with the application for the cover of Prescribed Minimum Benefits (PMB). Medical aids differ in the number of sessions they cover.
As a Counselling Psychologist (PS 0083402 | PrNo: 0157503), I provide invoices that you can submit to your medical aid for reimbursement.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to move forward, therapy can help. You don’t need to have a diagnosis or a crisis to benefit. Whether you're navigating anxiety, grief, relationship tension, or deeper identity questions, therapy offers a space to be heard, supported, and gently guided toward growth.
If you’re still uncertain, feel free to book an initial session or reach out with your questions. Therapy is a personal journey, and it’s important you feel comfortable and safe with the process.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?
Many people confuse the work or rather definitions of a psychologist with that of a psychiatrist. Both work in the field of mental health, however, these are different qualifications, different types of degrees, and differ in application.
A psychologist holds a master's degree specialising in a registered category of psychology, whereas a psychiatrist is a medical doctor that further specialises in psychiatric medicine.
Practically, psychologists primarily intervene or work through therapy. Psychiatrists are more involved with the medical management of individuals diagnosed with or seeking medical treatment for a psychiatric diagnosis.
How do I book a session?
You can book an appointment by calling me directly. (0798120113). Our Virtual Assistant with help you in either making the booking or sending the relevant booking link. You are also welcome to send us an email (zain@thelisteningplace.co.za) or press the BOOK NOW button on our contact page. This will take you directly to my online diary (hosted by Calendly.com), where you will be able to see which slots are available for booking. Just follow the prompts and book the slot that works best for you.
Ok, I've booked a session. What should I expect?
- You will receive a confirmation email from Calendly. You would then be able to add this to your Google Calendar. Whether you accept the booking or not, on my side, it's taken as a confirmed booking. If you want to cancel or reschedule, a WhatsApp (0798120113) or email is required (admin@thelisteningplace.co.za).
- You will receive our administrative documents and contracts via email. These need to be completed 48 hours before your session. Otherwise, we will accept the appointment as not confirmed.
- You will also receive reminders 24 hours and 2 hours before your selected time. We will also send you directions on the morning of your appointment. Kindly report to reception and wait in the waiting area. Your therapist will collect you there.
- If you have booked an online session, a similar process will be followed, with documents tailored to online services. In the initial booking confirmation, a meeting link will be included.
- We will discuss a follow-up appointment at the end of the session. Or you can use the link to schedule a follow-up yourself.
- Kindly note that sessions not cancelled 24 hours prior, will be fully charged for.