FAQ

Q: How do I access counselling services?

A:You have already made the first step by deciding that you need help. It takes courage to admit something needs to be changed. All you have to do is call us at 1-604-825-5264 to book an appointment.

Q:What about confidentiality and privacy?

A:We follow strict confidentiality guidelines and Standards of Clinical Practice established by BCACC as well as Code of Ethics set by BCCSW. Whatever we discuss in our sessions are kept confidential and will only be disclosed with your consent where needed. However there are exceptions where confidentiality is limited if the counsellor has reason to believe that a person’s safety is at risk.  Some of the exceptions are:

  • If a child or an elder is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect, or in need of protection
  • If the counsellor believes that you or another person is at clear risk of imminent harm
  • If there is a court order such as a subpoena for the counsellor to disclose client report

Q:How many sessions are needed?

A: We provide both short-term and long-term counselling. It depends on each individual circumstances. The short-term counselling is usually 4-8 sessions and long-term can be up to 6 months or a year.

A:Can my insurance cover the fee?

Mostly, health insurance cover either registered social worker or clinical counselor services.  Usually, you can add counselling services to your health insurance. Many workplace health benefit plans such as Great West Life and Pacific Blue Cross do include counselling coverage that reimburse you for visits to a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) or Registered Social Worker (RSW)like me. Please call your insurance company or Human Resources department whether you are covered or not.

Fees vary depending on the type of services. The fees are set by  within the recommended Fee Schedule provided by BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and as per guidelines by BC Association of Social Workers. Please note that fees are subject to change without notice.Here is the link for recommended fee.

http://bc-counsellors.org/general/recommended-fee-schedule

I am registered with both ICBC and with the Crime Victim Assistance Program (Victim Services). If you qualify under either of these programs then you may receive funding to cover the cost of your counselling.

Q: What about sliding scale services?

A: Yes.  We see a limited number of individuals on a sliding scale basis for those with limited incomes, or clients who are committed to long term counselling.