Frequently Asked Questions

  • Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment provided by psychologists to help individuals or couples talk about and work on emotional or psychological issues that are bothering them in a confidential, safe, objective, neutral and non-judgmental environment. The psychologist works closely with the client to identify appropriate evidence-based treatments that can help the client modify their thoughts, feelings and behaviours that are keeping them from happier, healthier and more productive lives. Through psychotherapy, clients can learn skills to better cope with life’s challenges.

  • Some people seek psychotherapy because they are dealing with emotional or physical problems that they find difficult to tackle on their own or even with the help of a family member or friend. Others may feel stressed, worried, depressed, anxious or angry for prolonged periods or may have undergone a traumatic experience. Still others may be having difficulty dealing with issues such as divorce, chronic illness, loss of a family member, moving to another city, a new job, etc. With the help of a psychologist, therapy can help clients clarify issues, gain insight and develop collaborative solutions to tackle such issues.

  • While both psychiatrists and psychologists specialise in treating mental health issues, psychiatrists are trained medical doctors who can prescribe medications while psychologists tend to focus more on psychotherapy and psychological assessments to help people with their thoughts, feelings and behaviour. However, both professions are able to refer clients to the other if it is needed.

  • Confidentiality is the cornerstone of psychology’s code of ethics. In order for collaborative treatment to be successful, the therapeutic relationship based on trust between the psychologist and client is vital. As such, there are only limited circumstances when psychologists are permitted to disclose what was said in a session without your verbal or written consent such as when mandated by a court order, if there is suspicion of causing harm to yourself or others, or if there is suspicion of child, elder or disability abuse. Any such disclosures will be discussed with you in advance. Other than for these reasons, your information will be kept confidential.

  • The only way to know for sure is to come in for a session. However, Dr. Karnani is happy to schedule a free 15-minute telephone consultation to help you better understand her approach and for you to decide if she is the right therapist for you. Please note that you will not receive any diagnosis or treatment as part of this free 15-minute telephone consultation.

  • There is no specific time frame for therapy and it varies based on the needs of individual clients. In general, most clients have weekly therapy sessions. However, clients may choose to have more frequent sessions to deal with pressing issues or choose to have less frequent sessions based on their own needs or progress.

  • A typical session lasts 50 minutes.

  • Every client with a set appointment may change or cancel an appointment for free by e-mailing the therapist at least 24 hours in advance. Changing or cancelling an appointment with less than 24 hours’ notice will result in the full charge of one session, unless discussed beforehand.

  • If, for any reason, you feel you need immediate attention, please call:

    • The Samaritans (Hong Kong) at 2896-0000 or

    • Call 999 for emergency assistance or

    • Visit the nearest emergency hospital.