Encouraging growth and inspiring ease of movement and peace within on life's journey
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I engage in counselling?
There are as many different reasons as people. Counselling can help when you are dealing with a specific problem (eg. trauma, depression, conflict, etc.) and would like to have someone to talk to about it and brainstorm solutions. Many people (couples and individuals) like to have support while working on issues in their relationships. Other common reasons that people engage in counselling is if they're feeling "stuck", feel like they can't let go of childhood/past issues, or want to make a change and would like support and someone to be accountable to while making those changes.
I've never done any counselling. What can I expect?
At the beginning of the session, we will work together collaboratively to figure out exactly what your goal is. I will regularly check in with you to make sure that you feel like we are on the right track and working towards that goal. We will also discuss different counselling modalities, to see which one might be the best fit for you.
What are your fees?
My fee is $135 for a 50-minute individual session and $160 for a 50-minute couples or family session. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor, my fees may be covered by your extended health plan. Please check with your employer or extended health plan for details prior to booking.
If you are sick on the day of your appointment, please contact me to reschedule. For missed appointments (without 24 hour cancellation or in the case of emergency/illness) there will be a full charge for the session. If you are late for your appointment there is a full charge for the session. Payment is due at the end of each session by cash or cheque. I also accept e-transfer as a form of payment, and we can arrange this mode of payment before the session begins.
How do I pick a therapist?
Research shows that the most important thing in therapy is not the modality approach used by the counsellor, but rather the relationship and fit between you and the therapist. I offer a free 15-minute telephone consultation (can be Facetime or virtual) to ensure that we have the right fit and that I can offer what you're looking for.
I have EAP/EFAP counselling coverage through my employer. Are you covered through this type of service?
Due to my caseload, I am currently not doing any EAP/EFAP counselling. However, I am registered with CVAP (Crime Victim Assistance Program) as a counsellor, as well as with ICBC. You may also be able to have me as your counsellor through WorkSafe BC if you request me, or if your employer's HR team refers to me directly. Please contact me for details. Because I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in the province of BC, your extended health benefits may reimburse your counselling fees. Be sure to check with your plan to see what's covered.
What type of counselling modalities do you use in therapy?
I am experienced in a variety of counselling modalities, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), attachment-based, solution-focused, interpersonal and EMDR. When we meet, I can suggest which modality might be most beneficial for the issue you're dealing with and your goals, or you can make a specific request.
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization reprocessing, a psycho-therapeutic treatment that uses bilateral stimulation (by way of guided eye movements or headphones) to help process trauma. Scientific research has shown that EMDR is effective for post-traumatic stress disorder), and many clients find it can be helpful in processing disturbing and stressful incidents from the past or historical childhood trauma, that are continuing to affect their thoughts and life today. EMDR can be particularly effective to help process the trauma of motor vehicle accidents. EMDR appears to be similar to what occurs naturally during dreaming or REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.
How can couples' counselling help our relationship?
Relationship counselling can help you resolve conflict, work through long-standing issues, learn new communication skills, as well as work with relationship enhancement strategies to energize and re-connect the relationship. In the event of separation/divorce, relationship counselling can also help you separate in the best possible way, which is helpful if you are co-parenting children.
What is your cancellation policy?
I ask for 24-hours' (business days) notice cancellation or the full session fee is payable.
What does the office space look like?
