The Waiting Room

Priya, 26, a software tester in Pune, has avoided therapy for a year. She fears being called mad, being judged, and having to spill everything on the first day. Her friend finally lends her the courage to book an appoint…

Priya, 26, a software tester in Pune, has avoided therapy for a year. She fears being called mad, being judged, and having to spill everything on the first day. Her friend finally lends her the courage to book an appointment.

In the first session the therapist, Dr Rao, explains that everything said is private, apart from rare safety exceptions that she will explain. She asks what brought Priya in and what she hopes will change. Priya talks about constant worry and a racing mind at night. The therapist does not give a diagnosis in the first ten minutes; she listens, asks about sleep, work and family, and suggests meeting weekly for a few sessions to see whether it feels like a good fit.

Priya leaves surprised. She expected advice, but instead felt heard. In the next sessions she learns to notice her worried thoughts, test them against evidence and try small experiments, such as sending an email without checking it five times. She practises between sessions.

After two months the worry is lighter, not gone. Priya realises that therapy is a collaboration, not a lecture, and that she is allowed to ask questions, and to change therapist if the fit is wrong.

How to recognise it

• Long-standing worry, fear of judgement and avoidance of seeking help.

• Belief that therapy is only for people who are very ill.

• Sleep and concentration affected by anxious thinking.

• Hesitation about opening up to a stranger.

• Wanting change but not knowing how.

What this story explains

Therapy is a structured, confidential conversation that builds skills such as noticing thoughts and testing them. It also shows what to expect in a first session and how to choose a good fit.

Probable root causes

• Anxiety and perfectionism.

• Stigma and myths about therapy.

• Lack of information about what happens in sessions.

• Fear of being judged by family or society.

What to do

1. Ask a doctor or trusted person for a qualified therapist.

2. Check training and ask how they work and how confidentiality is handled.

3. Go to the first session with a few notes on what troubles you.

4. Give it three or four sessions before judging the fit.

5. Do the small tasks agreed between sessions.

6. Tell the therapist honestly if something is not working.

Whom to consult

• Family doctor for a referral.

• Clinical psychologist or counsellor for talking therapy.

• Psychiatrist if symptoms are severe, long-lasting or affect daily functioning.

Do and don’t

How to behave and communicate

• Encourage a friend: "Trying therapy is a sign of strength."

• Do not push for details after sessions.

• Ask: "Do you want company to the appointment?"

• Keep conversation supportive and unhurried.