Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need a background in psychology or counselling to apply?

The course welcomes participants from any discipline. What matters most is your willingness to engage sincerely in self-reflection, mindfulness practice, and learning to listen deeply. Certification pathways differ slightly based on background, but the learning journey is the same.

2. Is this course suitable if I am already working full-time?

Yes. The course is designed as a one-year, part-time program. Modules are held once a month over a three-day weekend, and practice work is spaced gradually between modules. You will need to make dedicated time for learning and practice, but many participants complete the course alongside work and family responsibilities.

The course emphasises ethical clarity, scope of practice, and recognising when specialised support is needed.

4. What is meant by “Listening with Embodied Presence”?

Listening with embodied presence means listening not only with the mind, but also with awareness of the body, emotions, and the relational field. It involves staying grounded, attentive, and receptive to what is unfolding moment by moment.

5. What is the time commitment between modules?

Between modules, participants engage in mindfulness practice, peer listening sessions, individual listening sessions, and reflective assignments. These are designed to deepen learning gradually and sustainably rather than intensively all at once. It will require 4-6 hours a week, besides a daily 30 minute mindfulness practice and attendance of monthly modules.

6. What if I miss a module or fall behind due to life circumstances?

Regular attendance is important because learning happens in relationship and continuity. At the same time, we recognise that life circumstances can arise. Where genuine difficulties occur, we aim to explore possible flexibility through conversation, while maintaining learning integrity and care for the group process.

8. Is this course religious or tied to a specific spiritual tradition?

No. The mindfulness practices are non-sectarian and drawn from Buddhist Psychology. Since these are broad principles drawn largely from Buddhist Psychology, other contemplative traditions and contemporary psychology, participants from all spiritual, religious, and secular backgrounds will find its applications and relevance in their own living experiences.

9. What is the difference between the online and hybrid formats?

Both formats offer the same curriculum and learning outcomes. In the hybrid format, some modules are attended in person at the Just Being Center in Pune, while others are attended online. Participants may choose the format that best fits their location and circumstances.

10. Are scholarships or financial support available?

Yes. We offer limited and partial scholarships to those with financial constraints and who work with disadvantaged populations. Application for scholarships is a process and requests are vetted by our scholarship committee. We invite participants who want to apply for scholarships to write to justbeingcenter@gmail.com We would like to keep the course inclusive and if you can support fellow participants over and above your course fee, we welcome you to choose the Benefactor’s Fee option for those who wish to support greater inclusivity through sponsorship.

11. How are participants selected?

Admissions are through an application and interview process. Selection is based on readiness for the learning journey, commitment to attendance and assignments, capacity for self-reflection, and alignment with the spirit of the course, rather than academic background alone.

12. How many participants are there in each cohort?

Cohorts are limited to 30 participants to ensure depth of learning, safety, and meaningful relational engagement. We have a team of ten assistants supporting the learning journey, maintaining a 1:3 ratio for supportive learning.

13. Who can I contact if I still have questions or want to talk it through?

You are welcome to write or reach out directly!

Shiby Nair is your main point of contact for this course. She leads the Trainings and Counselling Services vertical at Just Being. Grounded in consistent mindfulness practice and a queer-affirmative, inclusive lens, she holds learning, supervision, and counseling spaces with care and steadiness, supporting participants as the course unfolds.

📧 justbeingcenter@gmail.com

📱 WhatsApp: +91 90110 36828

→ Apply now for the 2026-27 cohort