Menu

Get Started old

When do I need counselling?

Often people come to counselling when they are in crisis. However, you do not have to reach rock bottom or become completely debilitated before seeking counselling. Counselling can help provide a new perspective, tools to redirect your energies and emotions and stop needless suffering.

I recognize that it can be embarrassing to admit you need help. It can be even more embarrassing to share personal details of your life with a complete stranger. Life can be difficult and asking for help can sometimes feel like an admission of failure or we feel like we should have been able to figure this out ourselves. Please know that this is not the case.

Many thousands of people seek the advice and support of a professional counsellor on a regular basis.

Counselling can in fact be an important part of your ongoing healthcare management. Whether you are dealing with a personal crisis or simply need to learn new tools or strategies to accomplish your goals and enrich your relationships, personal counseling can not only help you avoid needless suffering but expedite your search for answers and results.

How do I pick the counsellor that’s right for me?

Compatibility: The Right Fit

It is important to find a counsellor who is right for you. There are many approaches and methods and it is essential that you find the best fit in order to feel comfortable and achieve the results you are seeking.

For that reason I provide a free introductory consultation. This initial phone call gives us an opportunity to meet and for you to determine if my approach will achieve your goals.

Qualified Professional Designation

It is also important to verify the qualifications of the counsellor you are considering. Currently, the word “counsellor” is not regulated in British Columbia. Unfortunately, this means that anyone can promote themselves as a counsellor. For this reason, it is essential that you select an educated, qualified, licensed, insured professional.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor governed by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCAAC). Learn more about my education and qualifications.

Once I have selected a qualified counsellor, how do I start?

You can begin counselling today by simply taking the first step:

  • RContact me for your free initial phone consultation. During this conversation we will discuss your circumstances and the services that I can offer you. If my approach sounds compatible with your needs then we will schedule our first session.
  • RYour first appointment: In your first session at my Vancouver counselling office – together we will assess your specific needs and priorities and begin to develop a course of action.
How many sessions will I have to do? When will I see results?

While it is difficult to predict in all cases how long therapy will take, on average you should expect to see and feel results within 6 to 12 weekly sessions. My goal is to work hard with you to achieve your results in the most efficient and fastest time possible. Much of your progress, however, will depend on your level of motivation and openness to the process.

Are my sessions confidential?

All information disclosed within sessions and the written records pertaining to those sessions are confidential and may not be revealed to anyone without your written permission, expect where law requires disclosure.

Do you accept insurance?

Registered Clinical Counsellors are recognized by some extended health providers such as Great West Life and Pacific Blue Cross, however not all. It is recommended you call your plan provider to ensure coverage and any annual dollar limits.

I accept the following forms of payment:

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Interac e-Transfer
  • Mastercard and Visa
How does medication fit into a treatment plan?

On the positive side, medication is very helpful for some people whose depression or anxiety is chronically severe. Sometimes people must try different medications before they find what works best for them, with the least side effects. There are quite a few choices now, so the odds are good that one can find something that works for them.

On the negative side, medication may interfere with the sense of success and increased self-esteem one experiences from making progress by their efforts in therapy. Either way, I will support your choice in your journey to self-discovery and healing.

Experience the Relationships You Want & Deserve

Call TODAY to get your FREE Phone Consultation

778-371-3449