Introduction

Welcome to the professional counselling services offered by Namrata Grover, a dedicated Psychologist and Career Counsellor. These services support individuals, both adults and adolescents, through personal challenges, emotional growth, relationship concerns, and career decision-making.

By booking or attending a session, you acknowledge and agree to the policies outlined below. These policies help maintain transparency, uphold confidentiality, and foster a respectful, supportive environment for all clients, including adolescents and their families.

Terms and Conditions

The following Terms and Conditions (“Agreement”) govern your access to and use of the services provided by Namrata Grover through GroVit Counsel Services. These services include in-person counselling, online consultations, career guidance, and the use of online tools for appointment scheduling and client communication.

The terms “we,” “us,” or “our” refer to Namrata Grover and GroVit Counsel Services. The term “official channels” refers to the systems and tools through which services are accessed, scheduled, or delivered. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Our official website which includes the Appointment Section where clients can explore available services, check scheduling options, and initiate the booking process.
• Communication tools such as WhatsApp and email, which are used for reminders, follow-ups, queries, and general communication.
• Appointment scheduling and client management are facilitated through the TheraSoft® system and integrated into our website via the following options:
• New Client Registration: First-time clients are required to fill out a registration form, select the desired service, choose a date and time, and complete the payment process. This step is mandatory before attending the first session.
• Book a Session Now: Allows immediate booking for online or in-person sessions with payment.
• Login for Existing Clients: Returning clients can manage appointments and view session history.
• Claim Your FREE 15-Minute Consultation: If you’re uncertain about which service fits your needs, you’re welcome to book a one-time free 15-minute consultation. This brief session will help clarify your concerns and guide you toward the most suitable service.
  To request your free consultation, simply visit the Contact Us or Appointment section and schedule your appointment through Calendly.
  Go to:Appointment > New Client Registration > Book a Session Now > Login for Existing Clients
  ➡️Then click the Free 15-Minute Consultation button just below the form for your convenience.
  Any other affiliated tools or platforms used to facilitate service delivery, such as digital forms, secure payment gateways, video session links, or communication systems involved in the counselling process.
  By registering, booking, or attending a session, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by the terms outlined in this Agreement. If you do not agree with any part of these terms, please refrain from using the platform or booking services.

 2. Scope of Services

       Our counselling services include, but are not limited to:

• Individual Counselling – Focuses on emotional well-being, personal growth, and building coping mechanisms for adults and young individuals.
• Relationship & Couple Counselling – Helps improve communication, resolve misunderstandings, and navigate generational or value-based differences in relationships.
• Divorce, Breakup & Separation Counselling – Offers emotional support during or after relationship transitions, helping clients move toward healing and closure.
• Career Counselling – Offering personalised guidance to students, young professionals, and career changers on academic choices, career paths, job transitions, and professional development.
• Teen Counselling – Addresses adolescent-specific concerns, including academic stress, peer dynamics, emotional regulation, and school refusal.
• Family Counselling – Aims to improve understanding, communication, and resolution of inter-family conflicts.

These services are designed to support clients across different age groups in navigating life’s challenges and fostering resilience across various domains of personal and interpersonal life.

3.Rescheduling, Cancellation Policies & Booking Process

3.1. Rescheduling

• Notice Period: Clients may reschedule appointments without any additional fee if a minimum of 24 hours’ notice is provided.
• Frequent Rescheduling: Clients who reschedule more than three consecutive sessions may be required to discuss scheduling preferences to ensure consistency.

3.2. Cancellations

• Standard Cancellations: Cancellations made with at least 24 hours’ notice are eligible for a full refund or rescheduling.
• Late Cancellations: Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled session will incur the full session fee.
• No-Shows: Failure to attend a scheduled session without prior notice will be considered a no-show, and the full session fee will be charged.

• If the counsellor cancels the session for any reason, the session will be rescheduled through mutual discussion at no additional cost. No cancellation charges will apply.
• If the client prefers a refund instead of rescheduling, the session fee will be reimbursed.
• If the counsellor joins the session late, they will ensure that the complete session duration is honoured.

3.4. Booking & Session Confirmation Process 

New Client Registration

• New clients are required to complete a one-time onboarding process during their first booking. Clients may book sessions via the “New Client Registration” or “Book A Session Now” button on the website. This leads to a secure booking form where clients can:
• Select session mode: Online or In-Person
• Choose the type of session (e.g., Individual, Parent, Teen, Career, etc.)
• View available time slots and choose their preferred date/time
• Fill out the Primary Client Intake Form with relevant background and contact details
• Read and agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
• Provide Informed Consent for receiving counselling services, and acknowledge rescheduling, cancellation, and confidentiality guidelines.

Booking & Confirmation Session

• Complete basic verification
• Make payment via UPI, bank transfer, or other accepted methods
• Once payment is confirmed, the session will be officially booked
• Online clients will receive a secure video session link 2–3 hours before the session
• In-person clients will receive confirmation and location details via WhatsApp
• As a courtesy, reminders may be sent a day before the session
• Free Consultation Option
  If you’re uncertain about starting counselling or would like to clarify your concerns before booking, you can request a free 15-minute consultation or reaching out via WhatsApp or email. This conversation is for informational purposes and does not constitute a counselling session.

4.Late Arrival Policy

• Grace Period: A 10-minute grace period is allowed for late arrivals.
• Session Duration: Sessions will end at the originally scheduled time, regardless of late arrival, to maintain scheduling integrity.
• Beyond Grace Period: Arrivals beyond 10 minutes may be considered a no-show, subject to the therapist’s discretion.

5.Teen-Counselling Guidelines

❗ Note: The counselling approach for teens is distinctly different from adult counselling. The process of rapport-building, session structure, and communication strategies are tailored based on the client’s age, maturity, and readiness to engage. It should not be assumed that teen and adult counselling follow the same path or pace

Counselling for adolescents (typically aged 13–17) is provided using ethical standards that ensure both effectiveness and protection of the teen’s rights.

💜 Parental Consent and Involvement

• A parent or legal guardian must provide written informed consent before any session is conducted with a minor.
• Depending on the presenting concern, involvement of parents in the counselling process may be recommended periodically for collaborative progress.

💜 Confidentiality with Adolescents

• While confidentiality is respected, the safety and well-being of the child are paramount.
• If there is any indication of self-harm, suicidal ideation, abuse, or threat to others, this will be communicated with the parent/guardian, and if needed, with legal or clinical authorities.
• A balance is maintained between respecting the teen’s privacy and ensuring their safety.

💜 Session Structure
        The counselling process for teenagers is carefully designed to align with their developmental
       stage, emotional needs, and personal comfort. The methods used for rapport-building and
therapeutic engagement may vary depending on the individual’s age and level of maturity.

Teen sessions may include but are not limited to the following approaches:

• Talk-based methods: Open conversations that encourage expression of thoughts, emotions, and concerns in a safe, non-judgmental space.
• Creative expression: Use of drawing, storytelling, or metaphors to help teens externalise and process emotions.
• Journaling and value exploration: Activities that promote self-reflection and identity development.
• Age-appropriate exercises: Interactive tasks or role-playing to support emotional regulation, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Initial sessions are primarily focused on building trust and rapport, as this forms the foundation for meaningful progress.
• Periodic progress reviews with parents or guardians may be recommended, but only after discussing and obtaining the adolescent’s comfort and consent, unless safety concerns dictate otherwise.

💜 Common Concerns Addressed 

• Low self-confidence
• Fear of academic failure
• School refusal
• Friendships, crushes, and romantic curiosity
• Parent-teen conflict
• Technology/social media misuse
• Emotional regulation and self-awareness
• Exam stress and anxiety

💜Informed Consent and Assent: A Dual Requirement 

When working with adolescents (typically between the ages of 13–17), we follow a dual consent model to ethically and responsibly engage the client in counselling:

💜Parental/Guardian Consent

• Counselling for minors requires the written informed consent of a parent or legal guardian before the process can begin. This is a legal and ethical requirement as minors (under 18 years) cannot independently enter into a professional contract.
• The parent/guardian must read and agree to the counselling terms, confidentiality policies, and emergency protocols.
• This ensures that caregivers are fully aware of the nature of counselling, their rights, and the scope of confidentiality.

 💜Teen Assent

In addition to parental consent, adolescents are required to provide informed assent.
Assent means that the adolescent:

• Understands what counselling involves
• Is aware of what to expect in sessions
• And is voluntarily agreeing to participate

The goal is to respect the teen’s autonomy, build trust, and foster active participation in their own growth journey.
A counselling relationship is only effective when the adolescent is willing to engage honestly and openly in the process.

💜Minors and Access to Records

If you are under 18 years of age, please note that the law may grant your parents or legal guardians the right to access your counselling records.At Grovit Counsel Services, our policy is to maintain your confidentiality and share only general information with parents or guardians, such as progress updates or areas of focus, unless there is a serious concern for your safety or the safety of others. In such cases, we are legally and ethically obligated to inform them.

A summary of the counselling process may be shared with parents once the sessions are complete.

Whenever possible, we will discuss any information to be shared with you first and aim to handle any concerns or objections with sensitivity and respect.

Please note: A signed Consent Form is required before initiating counselling for any minor. This must be signed by a legal adult (who may or may not be the parent) who holds the authority to provide such consent.

6. Mental Health Services

6.1. Therapeutic Approach

• At Grovit Counsel Services, a person-centred and eclectic counselling approach is followed to support the emotional and developmental needs of each client. The focus lies in helping individuals identify unhealthy patterns, build self-awareness, and adopt healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and behaving. 
• Counselling techniques are adapted based on the client’s age, personality, and emotional maturity.
• For teens and younger clients, rapport is built using a mix of talk-based methods, creative expression, journaling, value exploration, and other age-appropriate tools.
• For adults, the process is tailored to their specific concerns, life situations, and readiness for change.
• Each session takes place in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental space, encouraging clients to express themselves openly. Communication and client feedback are welcomed and actively encouraged as part of the counselling journey.

Important Note: Grovit Counsel Services operates under a non-clinical framework. No clinical diagnoses, psychiatric evaluations, or medical treatments are provided under this platform. The services focus on personal growth, emotional well-being, career guidance, and coping strategies.If a case is identified as requiring psychiatric, diagnostic, or clinical psychological support, the client will be referred to a qualified clinical psychologist, psychiatrist, or relevant medical professional for further evaluation and care.

6.2. Confidentiality and Legal Exceptions

All information shared in counselling sessions is strictly confidential. However, there are circumstances where we are ethically or legally obligated to break confidentiality, in compliance with the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017:

• Nominated Representative Disclosure: If a client has appointed someone to be informed in crisis situations, necessary details may be shared with that individual.
• Coordination with Other Professionals: When the client is under the care of a psychiatrist or other medical/mental health professional, relevant updates may be shared strictly for the purpose of holistic care (with the client’s consent).
• Risk to Life: If there is a threat of suicide, self-harm, or serious injury to others, confidentiality may be broken to ensure safety.
• Legal Orders: In response to a court subpoena or official legal directive, specific information may be disclosed.
• Abuse or Neglect: If a child, elderly, or dependent adult is suspected to be in danger or is being abused, this must be reported to the appropriate child protection or welfare agency.

Only the minimal required information will be disclosed, and clients will be informed of this disclosure wherever possible.

6.3. Duty to Warn

Counsellors have an ethical obligation to take appropriate steps if a client reveals a serious and credible threat of harm:

• If a client poses an imminent risk to themselves (suicidal intent), immediate safety protocols will be initiated.
• If a client discloses intent to harm another person, appropriate authorities may be notified, and necessary steps will be taken to prevent harm.
• If a client is experiencing or witnessing abuse or violence, this may be reported to safeguard their well-being or the safety of others.

6.4. Professional Boundaries and Communication 

To maintain the integrity of the counselling relationship, clear professional boundaries are observed at all times.

• Personal, social, or business relationships with clients outside of sessions are avoided.
• Exchange of personal gifts, favors, or services is not permitted.
  Counselling-related communication outside of sessions is limited to administrative matters such as appointment booking, rescheduling, or brief clarifications.
• Emotional concerns or extended discussions should be addressed during scheduled sessions only.
• Messages via email or WhatsApp will typically receive a response within 24–48 working hours.
• Social media platforms (Instagram/Facebook) are not used for client communication. Content shared there is solely for educational or informational purposes.

6.5. Session Duration and Additional Time

Sessions are 60 minutes. Extended sessions (90 or 120 minutes) are available on request and will incur additional charges.

6.6. Risks and Benefits of Therapy

Counselling can bring significant benefits such as improved mood, clarity, personal growth, and better relationships. However, clients must also be aware of:

• Emotional discomfort that can arise during the process (e.g., sadness, anger, confusion)
• Temporary distress as suppressed emotions surface
• Possibility of confronting painful truths or long-ignored issues
• Slower progress at times due to deeper unresolved issues

With consistent attendance and effort, clients often report greater emotional strength, improved coping skills, and enhanced decision-making abilities over time.

6.7. Crisis Support and Emergency Limitations

Counselling support is limited to scheduled sessions only. Grovit Counsel Services does not provide emergency or crisis intervention services.

In case of a psychiatric emergency or life-threatening situation, clients are strongly advised to:

• Contact local emergency services
• Visit the nearest hospital
• Reach out to a psychiatrist or mental health professional equipped for crisis care

This is not a 24/7 service. Messages or inquiries sent outside of working hours will be responded to during regular hours only.

For urgent mental health support, clients may also contact national helplines such as iCall, AASRA, or other government-approved crisis services.

6.8. Participation in Legal Proceedings

Please note that:

• The counselling relationship does not include court appearances or legal reporting unless required by law.
• The counsellor does not provide written evaluations, character references, custody assessments, or psychological testing for the court.
• If legal documentation is requested and compliance is legally mandated, additional fees may apply for the time spent preparing such material.

6.9. Liability Disclaimer

While every effort is made to provide accurate, ethical, and client-focused counselling support:

• We do not guarantee outcomes of counselling, as results depend on multiple factors, including client participation, life circumstances, and external influences.
• We are not liable for decisions made by the client outside sessions or for actions that may arise due to misunderstanding or misuse of guidance provided.
• We do not accept liability for criminal acts committed by clients or third parties who were involved in or mentioned during counselling, unless those issues were disclosed and followed up within ethical scope.

6.10. Contact Information

In case you have any doubts, please reach out to us on our email grovitcounselservices@gmail.com or on WhatsApp at +919327204248.
We’re here to help and will get back to you at the earliest.