It’s Not Just for ‘Crazy’ People: The Truth About Therapy in Bengaluru

One of the most persistent misconceptions I encounter is the belief that therapy is only for people in crisis—for those who are "unstable" or "crazy." This idea is a significant barrier for many, preventing them from seeking help until they are truly overwhelmed. The truth, however, is that therapy is a powerful tool for anyone. It's for the stressed student, the overworked professional, and the parent dealing with burnout.

It's for the person who has the courage to start a conversation, even when it feels daunting.

The Courage to Be Seen, Not Just Fixed

I remember one client who was in a cycle of booking sessions and then canceling last-minute. This had been a pattern, and most clinics would have simply blacklisted them. But we reached out with empathy to understand why. It turned out they were booking sessions when they felt overwhelmed, but then the anxiety of starting therapy would cause them to cancel.

Our simple, non-structured discovery call helped them break the ice and feel seen without judgment. Over time, that same client has become a regular, dedicating themselves to making meaningful changes. Their story is a powerful reminder that therapy isn't just about fixing what's broken; it's about creating a safe space to be vulnerable and understood.

More Than a Diagnosis: The Power of a Safe Space

Sometimes, the most significant breakthroughs don't come from complex techniques but from the simple act of having a safe space to vent. A client of mine found immense relief just from talking and, over time, learned not to react impulsively to situations. This single shift, learning to pause before responding, helped them avoid countless rifts and reduce their distress.

This is the essence of therapy: it’s not about giving you a quick fix. It’s about empowering you with practical tools and a sense of clarity so you can navigate your life with more intention and less distress.

Why Collaboration Is Key: A Real-Life Example

At Synapse, our holistic approach with in-house psychologists and psychiatrists is a game-changer. I recently worked with a client struggling with severe caregiver burnout and suicidal ideation. Given the severity of their symptoms, I broke it down for them that pharmacological intervention with a psychiatrist would likely be needed to help manage their mood. With their consent, they began seeing our in-house psychiatrist while continuing sessions with me.

The complementary care worked wonders. As their mood stabilized with medication, our therapy sessions became more effective. Today, they have successfully tapered off their medication and are in the termination phase of therapy, only needing check-in sessions every six months. This story, shared with their consent, highlights how a collaborative, supportive team can create a sustainable path to healing.

A Generation Willing to Change

Despite the stigma that still exists, especially in India, one of the most surprising and rewarding parts of my work is seeing how many people are genuinely willing to engage in therapy. They're doing the hard work, advocating for their own mental health, and even encouraging their friends and family to seek support. This generation is breaking the cycle, and it’s a privilege to be a part of that change.

Our commitment to making care affordable through our "pay-as-you-can" and pro bono models has validated our mission. We've seen firsthand how these options have allowed students and young professionals to continue their sessions and find fulfillment, a journey they might not have started otherwise due to cost.

At Synapse Mental Wellbeing, we believe that your story is worth being heard, and we are here to support you in writing your next chapter.