What is Psychotherapy?

Some people refer to psychotherapy as “talking treatment” because it is generally based on an individual talking to a therapist. However, psychotherapy is much more than talking about your problems. A trained psychotherapist will help you to tackle a specific or general problem by giving you the tools to be able to cope more effectively. In psychotherapy, therapists apply scientifically validated procedures to help people develop healthier, more effective habits. There are many different professionals that practice psychotherapy such as; clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, marriage and family therapists and social workers. Psychotherapy is a professional relationship between a therapist and a client. Psychotherapists are trained to understand what you say and how you say it. They pay close attention to body language, voice tone and content to fully understand what you are trying to say. While family or friends can help you feel better or even provide good advice for change, this is not psychotherapy. You can tell therapists things without having to worry about your information being told to others or in any way affecting your job, family or relationships.

What is the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?

A psychologist and a psychiatrist are often confused as having the same meaning. While both study the brain, emotions, feelings and thoughts, there is a distinct difference between the two fields of study. Psychiatrists begin their careers in medical school and then go on to four years of residency training typically at a hospital’s psychiatric department. Psychologists go through five to seven years of academic graduate study and hands-on clinical training, culminating in a doctorate degree. As medical doctors, psychiatrists can prescribe drugs, whilst psychologists cannot.

How Does Psychotherapy Work?

Psychotherapy provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral and nonjudgmental. You and your therapist will work together to identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that are keeping you from feeling your best. By the time you’re done, you will not only have solved the problem that brought you in, but you will have learned new skills so you can better cope with whatever challenges arise in the future. The way in which our psychologists and counsellors will work with you will depend in part on what you seek from psychotherapy, how you understand your difficulties, available support, and any time-constraints you have. We believe that the relationship between the therapist and the client should be a collaborative one, in which we both work together to come to an agreement on the goals and focus of therapy.

Top Psychologists, Counsellors and Therapists in Hong Kong

Meet Central Minds' Psychologists, Therapists and Counsellors in Hong Kong and Online

We are a group of professional and experienced clinical psychologists, psychotherapists and counsellors. We offer the most effective, tailor made approaches to help resolve your difficulties. Our clinicians go that extra mile to ensure you receive compassionate, empathetic and effective interventions.

View Therapists Online Therapy Psychotherapy FAQ

Online Therapy

Not everyone can attend weekly therapy sessions in an office environment, for various reasons. Research suggests that online therapy is just as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy. At Central Minds, we have a group of therapists who work predominantly online. If you think online therapy may be the better fit for you, please contact us about one of our therapists listed below.

Who We Work With

Our team supports people experiencing a wide range of concerns, including (but not limited to):

Stress related to work, study or life transitions
Anxiety, worries or persistent tension
Low mood or changes in motivation
Relationship or family difficulties
Challenges with self-esteem or confidence
Sleep concerns
Support for children and adolescents

Our psychologists and counsellors work with adults, adolescents, couples and families. When needed, we collaborate as a team to ensure each person receives care that aligns with their needs.

Why Work With a Psychologist

A psychologist brings specialist training in understanding thoughts, emotions and behaviour. This includes structured therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), psychodynamic therapy and other evidence-based models commonly used in clinical practice.

Speaking with a psychologist can help you explore recurring patterns, consider new perspectives and develop skills that support day-to-day wellbeing.

FAQs About Our Psychologists

How do your psychologists decide which therapeutic approach to use?

Our psychologists begin by learning about your concerns, background and goals. They then discuss which evidence-based approaches may be suitable, such as CBT, ACT, psychodynamic or schema therapy. This is a collaborative conversation, and you are welcome to ask questions or express preferences at any point.

Can I switch psychologists if I feel someone else may be a better fit?

Yes. It is important that you feel comfortable with the psychologist you are working with. If at any stage you believe another psychologist at Central Minds might be more suitable, our team can help you make that transition.

What happens during the first session with a psychologist?

The first session often involves discussing your reasons for attending, any relevant history and what you hope to focus on. Your psychologist will explain how sessions usually work and answer any questions you may have. Many people describe the first meeting as an opportunity to get a clearer sense of what support might look like.

Do your psychologists work with other professionals if needed?

Yes. With your consent, psychologists at Central Minds can communicate with GPs, psychiatrists, schools or other professionals involved in your care. This ensures that the support you receive is consistent and aligned.

Do your psychologists offer assessments as well as therapy?

Some of our psychologists provide psychological assessments, such as cognitive assessments or structured measures related to mood and anxiety. Assessment options vary by practitioner, and our administrative team can guide you to the psychologist who offers what you need.

How do psychologists support people who are unsure about their goals?

It is common to arrive without clear goals. Your psychologist will help you explore what feels most important to you, identify patterns and gain clarity over time. Goal-setting can be flexible and may be adjusted as sessions progress.

What if I’m new to therapy and don’t know what to say?

Many people feel unsure about where to start. Your psychologist will guide the conversation with gentle, structured questions. There is no expectation to prepare anything in advance, and you can take the pace that feels manageable for you.

Can I involve a family member or partner in sessions?

If it feels appropriate, some psychologists may invite a partner or family member to join certain sessions. This is discussed in advance to ensure it supports your goals and aligns with your preferences.

How do psychologists adapt sessions for different cultural backgrounds?

Our psychologists work with people from many cultures in Hong Kong. They take time to understand your values, language needs and personal context, and adapt their approach so that it feels respectful and relevant.

What should I look for when choosing a psychologist?

Some people focus on qualifications or areas of expertise; others look for a psychologist whose style feels comfortable. Our team can provide both. You can read each clinicians profile above, and our team can help you identify someone who aligns with your concerns and preferences.

Send Us a Message

Psychology & Counselling Services

We recognise the courage it takes to seek professional support. If you have questions and would like to know more about working with us, please check out our frequently asked questions or fill out the contact form below. Once you have submitted a contact form, a member of our team will be in touch with next steps within 48 hours.

Please provide us with some information on the issue you are currently facing (optional)

In order for us to better understand your needs and connect you with the right therapist, please indicate your age range.

Our sessions with experienced therapists range from HKD $1,600 to $2,600, depending on your therapist’s level of expertise. If you’re looking for more affordable options, we also offer lower fees with our recent graduate and trainee therapists, who are fully supported and supervised to provide you with great care.

We’ve included this information here to make your first step as comfortable and transparent as possible. If you have any questions about which option might be best for you, please don’t hesitate to ask—we’re here to support you.

Google reCaptcha: Invalid site key.

How to Get Here

Use Exit G to leave Central MTR Station.

Opening Hours

Monday - Friday

9:00 am - 6:30 pm

Saturday

9:00 am - 2:30 pm

Sunday & PH

Closed

Contact Us

(852) 2813 6108

Contact Form

Unit 2001 Ruttonjee House, Ruttonjee Centre, 11 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong

Please note: Central Minds voicemail and email are only checked during normal office hours. In case of emergency please attend your nearest emergency room or call 999 for immediate assistance.

Book an Appointment

Therapists / Psychologists / Counsellors