Before you arrive
Think about one recent situation you would like to understand. It might be a difficult conversation, a change in sleep or a worry that keeps returning. A short note can help if speaking feels difficult, but notes are optional.
When booking, ask about the fee, session length, language options and cancellation arrangements. Mention whether you prefer the Malad West appointment location or an online consultation. These practical questions are a reasonable part of choosing care.
What the conversation may cover
You can describe what brought you in, how long it has been happening and what feels harder in daily life. Relevant health history, previous support and your own priorities may help the psychologist understand the context. You can say when you would prefer to leave something for later.
The first session also gives you an opportunity to ask about the approach, professional experience, confidentiality and how progress will be discussed. NIMH recommends clarifying these questions when choosing a therapist.
Reference: NIMH: Psychotherapies ↗
Questions you can bring
You are allowed to ask for an explanation in everyday language. The aim is to understand the process well enough to make an informed choice, rather than agree to a long course of sessions before your needs are clear.
- What might our initial goals be?
- How will we decide the frequency of sessions?
- What are the limits of confidentiality?
- What happens if this approach does not feel like a good fit?
After the first meeting
You may leave with an initial plan, more questions or a recommendation for another kind of assessment. A first visit does not need to resolve everything. Consider whether you felt heard, could ask questions and understood the proposed next step.
If something was unclear, bring it up before the next appointment. Appointments with Chandni are arranged by prior booking. You can request a first conversation in Malad West or ask whether online support would suit your situation.
About this guide
Published on the website of Psychologist Chandni Akhenia, M.A. in Clinical Psychology, with 3 years of experience. This is general educational information, not a personalised assessment. The public health references above support the information; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of this practice.
For appointments, visit the Contact page. You can also read session FAQs or learn about Chandni.
Need urgent support?
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