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Sonia Forssman
Marriage and Relationship Counsellor
Online Counselling
Google Meet | Psychology Today | MS Teams
Confidential online support





1. Before You Get Started
Taking the first step towards counselling often comes with uncertainty. Whether you're considering individual or couples counselling, below are answers to some of the questions I'm asked most often by new clients.

How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Many people wait until their relationship feels like it's at breaking point before reaching out for help. In reality, you don't have to wait for a crisis before starting counselling. Counselling can be helpful whenever you feel stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from your partner, or unable to move forward on your own. You might be struggling with communication, trust, recurring conflict, the emotional impact of an affair, or simply feeling that the relationship you once had no longer feels the same. You don't need to have everything figured out before making an appointment. Part of my role is to help you make sense of what's happening, understand the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and work with you towards practical, meaningful change. If you're wondering whether counselling could help, that's often a good indication that it's worth exploring.
Will online counselling be effective?
Yes. Research has consistently shown that online counselling can be just as effective as face-to-face counselling for many of the concerns people seek help with, including relationship difficulties, anxiety, grief, trauma, and betrayal recovery. One of the biggest advantages is that you can attend sessions from the comfort and privacy of your own home, without the added stress of travelling or sitting in a waiting room. This also allows me to work with clients across South Africa and internationally. All you need is a stable internet connection, a quiet and private space, and a device with a camera and microphone. Many clients who were initially uncertain about online counselling are pleasantly surprised by how natural and personal the experience feels.
Should I come alone or with my partner?
That depends on your circumstances. If both of you are willing to attend counselling together, couples counselling allows us to understand the relationship as a whole and begin working on the patterns that may be causing distress. If your partner isn't ready, unwilling to attend, or if you're simply looking for support yourself, individual counselling can still be incredibly valuable. Many people begin the journey on their own before their partner eventually chooses to become involved. You don't have to wait for someone else before taking care of your own emotional wellbeing. Sometimes, meaningful change begins with one person.
What happens during the first session?
The first session is about understanding your story—not rushing to solve it. I'll spend time getting to know you, understanding what has brought you to counselling, what you've already tried, and what you hope will be different moving forward. If you're attending as a couple, I'll want to hear from both of you, ensuring each person has the opportunity to share their perspective. You won't be expected to have all the answers, and there is no pressure to talk about anything before you're ready. My goal is to create a safe, respectful space where we can begin understanding what's happening beneath the surface and identify the most helpful way forward. Most clients tell me they leave the first session feeling lighter, simply because someone has finally helped them make sense of what they've been carrying.
What if I'm nervous or don't know what to say?
Feeling nervous before your first counselling session is completely normal. Many people worry that they'll become emotional, say the wrong thing, or not know where to begin. You don't need to prepare a speech or organise your thoughts beforehand. My role is to guide the conversation. I'll ask questions, help you unpack what's been happening, and create a space where you can speak at your own pace. There is no expectation that you'll have everything neatly explained. Often, people begin by simply saying, "I don't even know where to start," and that's perfectly okay. We'll find the starting point together.
How do I book?
Booking a session is simple. You can contact me through the enquiry form on my website or send me a WhatsApp message. I'll get back to you as soon as possible to discuss your needs, answer any questions you may have, and arrange a suitable appointment time. Once we've confirmed a date and time, you'll receive the payment details and the link for your online session. If you're unsure whether individual or couples counselling would be the best fit, you're welcome to mention that in your enquiry, and I'll gladly help you decide which option is likely to be most beneficial.