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Getting help: who does what

What counsellors, psychologists and psychiatrists do, what to expect at a first session, privacy, and questions to ask about cost and cover.

You do not have to wait

Mental health conditions are common. Kenya's Ministry of Health says they affect one in four people at some point in their lives.

You do not need a diagnosis to ask for help. Talking to someone early can stop problems from growing.

Who does what

Different professionals offer different kinds of help, and many work together.

In Kenya, counsellors and psychologists are covered by the Counsellors and Psychologists Act. You can ask any provider about their training and registration.

  • Counsellors listen without judging and help you find your own solutions. They often help with stress, low mood, worry, grief and relationship problems.
  • Psychologists are trained in how people think, feel and behave. They offer talking therapies and assessments. They are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medicine.
  • Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialise in mental health. They assess and treat mental health conditions, and can prescribe medicine when it is needed.
  • Mental health clinics and hospital units often have a team. This may include nurses, clinical officers, counsellors, psychologists and psychiatrists.

What to expect at a first session

A first session is mostly about getting to know you. You will be asked what brings you, how you have been feeling and what is happening in your life.

Counselling sessions usually last 50 to 60 minutes. They can be in person, by phone or online, alone, as a couple or in a group.

Be as open as you can about how you feel and how long it has been going on. It can help to write your questions down before you go.

You can bring someone you trust. If a suggested option does not feel right, say so and ask about others.

Privacy and confidentiality

What you share in a session is private, and should not be shared without your permission.

At the start, it is fine to ask how your information is kept private. You can also ask if it would ever need to be shared.

Asking about cost and cover

Costs differ between providers, and Tymira Health does not set them. The Social Health Authority (SHA) replaced the NHIF in 2024. What it covers can change, so always check.

Before you book, it is fine to ask:

  • How much does a session cost, in KES?
  • Do you accept SHA cover?
  • Do you work with my insurer, and what do I need to bring?
  • Do you offer online sessions or group sessions?

When to get help

Get help if difficult feelings last for weeks, affect your daily life, or if you are using alcohol or drugs to cope.

If you or someone else is in danger right now, use the crisis numbers on this page or call 999.

You can use Tymira Care Finder to find a counsellor, clinic or other support near you or online.

Talk to someone about this

A professional can listen and help you work out what's right for you, in person or online.

Find support near you

General information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. A professional can talk through what's right for you. Reviewed 2026-11-01.

Sources

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