Frequently asked questions
I cannot afford the fees for counselling sessions. Are there any options for discounted fees?
Yes! If you are a low income earner, you are eligible for a sliding scale fee which entitles you to a discounted rate for counselling. If you are still unable to pay that amount, I would be more than happy to refer you to low-cost or free counselling services offered in the lower mainland. Contact me for more information.
Given the COVID-19 pandemic, is your office still open?
While our office continues to remain open at the current time, we are taking extra precautions with regards to sanitation. After each client we sanitize the room and have hand sanitizer on site. Chairs have also been set 6 feet apart to ensure physical distancing protocols. If you are not comfortable for an in-person session, we also offer video and phone counselling.
If you answer “yes” to any of the following questions, we ask that you reschedule your session or consider a video/phone session:
Do you have a fever and a cough?
Do you have a fever and breathing difficulty?
Have you been in contact with anyone known to have COVID-19?
Are you currently under mandatory quarantine, as a result of recent travel or by orders from the provincial, territorial or local public health authorities?
For how long should I be going to counselling?
The short answer is that it varies from person to person. Typically a given individual starts to see noticeable change between 4-6 sessions. However, based on your needs counselling can be shorter or longer than that time frame. It is recommended that clients see their counsellor on a weekly or biweekly basis.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
If counselling is a new experience you may find yourself feeling uneasy or nervous. This is completely normal. Facing your life challenges can be an intimidating process. It is my job to make sure you are the most comfortable and safe while you do so. In most cases the first session of counselling involves us getting to know each other. In this time you will get the opportunity to share your story, your goals, and what brought you to counselling. If you don’t have the answers to any of these that is okay. This is something we can discover together.
Who will know that I attend counselling?
No one but you and I will know that you attend counselling. This is an absolute confidential process. There are only 3 legal limitations that require us to break this confidentiality:
- If I have to report any instances of child abuse or neglect
- If I have to warn someone after becoming aware of a serious and imminent risk of harm yourself or someone else
- If I am required to do so due to an order of a court subpoena
How do you accept payment?
Sessions may be paid for by cash, cheque, or e-transfer deposit.
