- Your first session is a relaxed, confidential conversation, not an exam.
- You share only what you're comfortable with.
- You'll leave with a clear summary and next steps.
- Fees and timing are confirmed before booking, with no surprises.
Sending that first message is often the hardest step. Many people hesitate for weeks, unsure what will happen, what they'll be asked, or whether they'll feel judged. Knowing exactly what a first online HIV counselling session looks like can make it much easier to begin.
Before the Session
Reaching out
You send a WhatsApp message or use the private query form. A short note is enough, such as "I'd like to talk about an HIV test result" or "I'm anxious after an exposure." You don't need to share your full name.
Confirming details
We reply with available times, the session format (chat, voice or video) and the fee. Nothing is booked until you agree. If you're in Thailand, times are offered in Thai time, which is 1.5 hours ahead of India.
Preparing
It helps, though it isn't required, to have:
- Any recent test reports.
- A list of your medicines.
- Key dates, such as an exposure date or diagnosis date.
- Your main questions written down.
During the Session
1. A gentle start
Dr. Yuvraj Monga introduces himself, explains how the session works and reminds you that everything is confidential. You can ask questions about privacy before sharing anything.
2. Your story
You explain what's on your mind, at your own pace. There's no script and no wrong way to begin. You might start with a test result, a worry about a partner, or simply "I don't know where to start." That's fine.
3. Questions to understand your situation
To give accurate guidance, Dr. Monga may ask about timing, test results, symptoms or treatment. You can skip any question you're not comfortable answering.
4. Clarity and facts
This is often the part people find most reassuring. You'll get clear explanations: what your results mean, how risky an exposure really was, what treatment involves, or what U=U means for your relationship.
5. Space for feelings
Fear, guilt, sadness and frustration are all welcome. Counselling isn't only about information; it's also about feeling heard.
6. A clear plan
Before the session ends, you'll agree on next steps. These might include tests to take and when, questions to ask your clinic, ways to manage anxiety, or a plan for a difficult conversation.
After the Session
- You receive a short written summary of key points and next steps.
- You can share new reports for review as they arrive.
- Follow-up sessions are arranged if helpful, at your pace.
What Counselling Can and Can't Do
Online counselling can explain, guide, support and help you plan. For people in Thailand, HIV medicines, blood tests and physical examinations come from a licensed local clinic. If anything needs urgent in-person care, you'll be told clearly.
Confidentiality
Everything you share is confidential and used only for your care. We never contact family, partners, employers or anyone else without your permission. You can begin with a first name or nickname. Read more in our guide on how your privacy is protected.
Fees
The consultation fee is displayed on this page. For clients outside India, or for people who need several sessions, the fee and payment options are confirmed on WhatsApp before booking. Our article on counselling packages for Thailand clients explains the options.
Common Worries About the First Session
"I'll be judged"
You won't. Sexual health counselling is built on respect, whatever brought you here.
"My question is too small"
No question is too small. Many people come with one specific worry and leave relieved.
"I won't know what to say"
You don't need to. The session is guided, and silence or hesitation is okay.
"My English isn't perfect"
Sessions are available in English or Hindi, and we'll speak clearly and check understanding.
If You Need to Reschedule
Life happens. If you can't make your session, simply message us as early as you can and we'll find a new time that suits you.
Within Our EXACT Approach
Your first session is the entry point to EXACT, our clinic approach covering exposure assessment, anxiety support, counselling, testing and treatment guidance. From there, care is shaped around exactly what you need.
The First Step Is the Hardest
Once you've had your first session, most people say they wish they'd reached out sooner. A single conversation can turn uncertainty into understanding and fear into a plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a first session?
Most first sessions last around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs. Chat-based sessions may run a little longer because typing takes more time.
What does a session cost?
The consultation fee is shown on this page. If you're outside India or need a series of sessions, the fee and payment options are confirmed on WhatsApp before booking.
What if I start crying or can't find the words?
That's completely normal. There's no pressure to explain everything perfectly. We go at your pace.
Related Reading
- How online counselling works
- Why online counselling works
- Counselling packages for Thailand clients
- What happens in a first PEP consultation
- How your privacy is protected
- Counselling in Hindi or English
Medical note: This article is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. If your exposure happened within the last 72 hours, seek PEP immediately at the nearest hospital or contact a specialist. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, call Tele-MANAS on 14416 in India, the Mental Health Hotline 1323 in Thailand, or your local emergency number.
