Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the questions we are asked most often. If yours isn’t here, please reach out — we’re happy to help.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist, a psychologist and a psychiatric social worker?
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has specialised in mental health. Psychiatrists can diagnose mental illness, prescribe medication, and provide certain forms of psychotherapy. Dr. Melvin Chagas Silva is a consultant psychiatrist trained at NIMHANS and the Royal College of Psychiatrists, UK.
A counselling psychologist or clinical psychologist has a postgraduate qualification in psychology. Psychologists provide psychotherapy and psychological assessment but do not prescribe medication. Alan Fernandes is our counselling psychologist.
A psychiatric social worker has specialist training in mental health and the social context that surrounds it — family, work, community, access to services. They provide therapy, family work, and practical support. Griselda Nobbay is our psychiatric social worker.
Many people benefit from the combined care of more than one of these professionals working together. At our clinic, that coordination is built in.
Do I need a referral from a GP to see you?
No. You can book an initial appointment directly. If you’d like to involve your GP in your care, we’re happy to coordinate with them — with your written consent.
Is what I tell you confidential?
Yes. Everything you share is confidential within the limits set by Indian medical ethics and law. The narrow exceptions — for example, where there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to yourself or another person, or where a court orders disclosure — are explained to you at the start of treatment. Outside of these specific exceptions, what you say in session stays in session.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on what you’re working on. Some concerns resolve within 6–12 sessions; others, especially long-standing patterns, benefit from longer work over months or years. Your therapist will review progress with you regularly and you decide together when the work is complete.
Will I have to take medication?
Not necessarily. Many people benefit from therapy alone, particularly for milder concerns. Where medication is the right choice — typically for moderate to severe depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, or psychosis — we discuss the options openly with you, including the realistic benefits, side effects, and how long you might need to be on it. The decision is always collaborative.
Can I see someone online instead of coming to the clinic?
Yes. Most of our services — including initial assessment, individual therapy, couples and family therapy, and psychiatric follow-ups — are available via secure video. In person is recommended for certain situations (cognitive testing, child assessments, brain stimulation, first appointments for some new patients), but online works very well for most ongoing care.
How do I pay? Do you accept insurance?
We accept by cash, cards, online transfer and UPI. Please contact us for current fees.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
We ask for [at least 24 hours’ notice] for cancellations. Late cancellations or missed appointments are charged at 50% of fee. This policy lets us offer the time to someone else who needs it.
I’m not sure what kind of help I need. Where do I start?
Start with the Initial Assessment. You don’t need to have a label or a clear treatment plan before you come in — that is precisely what the assessment is for. We’ll talk things through with you and help you figure out the right next step.
What if this is an emergency?
This practice is not an emergency service. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 112 (medical emergency), iCall (9152987821), Vandrevala Foundation (1860-2662-345, 24×7), or KIRAN Mental Health Helpline (1800-599-0019, 24×7, free, multilingual). You can also go to the nearest hospital emergency department.