Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Online Therapy Support

What is areeka care's mission?
Our mission is to make online psychotherapy accessible, trusted, and culturally aligned for Arabic speakers around the world. We connect you with qualified, licensed specialists who understand your language, values, and lived experience — offering therapy that feels personal, secure, and designed around you. Your well-being, privacy, and the confidentiality of your information are our top priorities.
How is my privacy and data protected?
At areeka care, your privacy and trust come first. We follow strict international standards to protect your information - including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and Lebanese privacy regulations. These frameworks guide how we collect, store, and safeguard your personal and health data.The only data we collect and retain are the necessary details you provide when registering on the platform, such as your name, email address, phone number, and session preferences, to provide our online therapy services and communicate with you safely. Your information is handled with transparency and respect, and protected through strong security measures.Inactive accounts will be automatically deleted after two (2) years, unless you log in again to reactivate your account. By resetting your password and signing in, you confirm that you want your account and information to stay active.You remain in full control of your data. You can request to access, update, or delete it at any time. All data and messages on our platform are encrypted, and all sessions are conducted in secure, confidential virtual rooms. areeka care does not keep any records of your therapy conversations or notes taken by specialists during sessions — these remain solely with the specialist. You can learn more about our practices in our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
How does therapy with areeka care work?
Getting started with therapy on areeka care is simple. Browse our network of 60+ licensed professionals and choose the specialist who feels right for you. Create your account, select your plan, and book your first session — all within minutes. Then, sign in from your phone, tablet, or computer and start your private, secure online session anytime, anywhere. Your dashboard keeps all your sessions, messages, and payments organised and secure in one place.
What is the difference between psychotherapy and counselling?

Both psychotherapy and counselling aim to support your mental health, but they differ in depth and focus.

Counselling is typically short-term and goal-oriented, helping you work through specific challenges, decisions, or life changes.

Psychotherapy, on the other hand, is a longer-term process that explores deeper emotional patterns, past experiences, and inner conflicts to promote lasting self-understanding and healing.

At areeka care, both approaches are led by licensed professionals — your choice depends on your goals and the type of support you're seeking.

What is a live video session?
A live session is a one-on-one online therapy session. You can choose whether to keep your camera on or off. These sessions are designed to help you explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe, private setting.
What languages do areeka care's specialists speak?
All our specialists speak Arabic, and the majority are also fluent in English and/or French. Use the language filter on the "Our Specialists" page to find a specialist who speaks your preferred language.
When and how will I be charged for my sessions?

You can pay securely by credit card or cash.

If you choose credit card, payments are processed instantly at checkout through Stripe, our trusted and secure payment partner.

If you prefer cash, you can pay through Whish Money or OMT — just contact our support via the WhatsApp button on the website for instructions.

Once your payment is confirmed, your session credits and account access will be activated immediately. All payments are encrypted and protected by fraud-prevention measures.

What is areeka care's refund policy?
We review refund requests case by case. areeka care may, at its sole discretion, issue a full, partial, or pro-rated refund depending on the situation and services rendered. If you wish to request a refund, please email contact@areekacare.com.
What happens if my therapist or I need to cancel a session?
If you or your specialist cancel a session, it will be credited back to your account, and you can easily reschedule another one at your convenience. All cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled session.
What if my specialist becomes unavailable or leaves areeka care?
If your specialist becomes unavailable or leaves the platform, our team will notify you immediately. We'll then recommend other qualified specialists based on your preferences so that you can continue your journey without interruption.
Are specialists on areekacare.com certified?

Yes. Every specialist undergoes a rigorous verification and vetting process and must meet strict professional and educational requirements before joining areeka care. This includes:

  • Credential and license verification.
  • Degree and certification review.
  • Reference and background checks.
  • An interview conducted by our clinical team.
Only verified, qualified, and licensed professionals who meet our minimum requirements are accepted to the areeka care network.
Can minors use areekacare.com?

Yes, with consent. Individuals under 18 may use areeka care only with the written consent of a parent or legal guardian. The guardian must:

  • Sign the consent form.
  • Attend the first session with the specialist.
  • Be reachable if safety concerns arise.
After the introductory session, minors can continue therapy/counselling privately with their specialist. Specialists are required to maintain confidentiality while ensuring safety.
What should I do in case of an emergency?
areekacare.com is not an emergency service. If you or someone you know is in danger, having suicidal thoughts, or at risk of harm, please call 112 or your local emergency number immediately, or go to the nearest police station or hospital. Once you are safe, you can continue your therapy with your areeka care specialist.
Didn't find what you were looking for?
Email us at contact@areekacare.com or send a message to our support team via the WhatsApp button on our website.