Should I get counselling? People seek counselling for many reasons. Some might be dealing with a specific mental health issue like anxiety, while others are navigating a challenging life transition, experiencing loss, or working through hard past life events. For some, counselling is a way to better understand themselves or develop new skills for coping with life’s ups and downs. You don’t have to be in crisis to benefit from therapy—many people begin when things are going relatively well, using therapy as a proactive tool for personal growth. If you’re wondering whether counselling might be helpful for you, I’d be happy to chat in my free 15 minute consultation and explore your options. Just give me a call or a text!

How do I know what counsellor is best for me? Finding the right counsellor is an important step in your healing journey, as every therapist has their own approach, style, and availability. I recommend reaching out to a few counsellors to see who feels like the best fit for you. A free 15-minute consultation is a great way for us to get to know each other and determine if I’m the right match for your needs. I am also always happy to provide referrals to folks for other counsellors that may meet your needs as well.

How many sessions will I need and when will I know I am done counselling? The number of sessions you may need varies depending on your goals. Some people come for just a few sessions to navigate a tough transition or learn new skills, while others choose a longer-term approach to address deeper challenges. At the start, sessions typically happen more frequently, weekly or bi-weekly, and over time, as you gain tools and strategies, you may find that you need fewer sessions. In some therapy types, like EMDR, it can be important to not have a big gap between counselling sessions, but for the most part, this can be flexible and decided between you and the counsellor. You’ll know it’s time to end therapy when you feel you’ve met your goals, and have made progress.

What does the first session look like? The first session is about laying the foundation for our work together. We’ll begin by reviewing and/or completing intake forms and discussing important details like confidentiality. Then, we’ll take some time to talk about what brought you to counselling and what you hope to achieve in our time together. It’s all about getting to know one another, starting to build some trust, and laying a loose road map for our future sessions.

What are your fees and why? My sessions are 60 minutes long and $155.00. My initial sessions are 75 minutes long so there is time to cover intake and consent forms and are $165.00. My fees are based on the recommendations by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and take into account my training and experience.

How do I pay? I accept payment in the form of credit cards (visa, mastercard, discovery,) cash, etransfer and cheque.

What about coverage through insurance? As a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) in BC I am covered by most insurance plans, but it is always best practice for you to check with your provider directly. At this time folks pay for their sessions directly and then I provide a receipt with all the neccessary information to submit to your insurance plan for reimbursement.

What does contact look like outside of our sessions? Outside of our sessions, contact is limited to scheduling concerns that cannot be addressed through online booking, or specific follow up concerns from the previous session. I’m unable to provide crisis support outside of our sessions—if you need immediate help, please call the Interior Crisis Line at 1 (888) 353-2273 or go to your nearest hospital or Urgent Care center.

Will you follow up with me if I don’t rebook? You have full control over your scheduling, and I will not reach out if you decide not to book a follow-up session. If a year passes without an appointment, your file will be closed, but you’re always welcome to return whenever you’re ready. Just keep in mind that you may need to complete updated paperwork so I have your most current information. If you would like me to follow up, I am more than happy to, pleae communicate this preference to me in our intake.

What are your qualifications? I hold a Master of Counselling from Gonzaga University and am a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) through the BC Association of Counsellors, the largest professional association for clinical counsellors and psychotherapists in BC. My membership number is 23983.