How long are the sessions?

Counselling sessions are typically one hour in length. Arrangements for longer/shorter sessions can be made in consultation with the therapist.

How do I choose a therapist?

Choosing the best therapist to work with you and/or your family is an important decision and there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, most extended health care plans have a certain claim limit towards counselling sessions as well as the type of therapist such as a Registered Clinical Counsellor or a Psychologist. If you are utilizing your extended health benefits, ensure that you check to make sure that your counselling will be reimbursed. Secondly, it is wise to know some of the therapist educational and clinical experience. This includes ensuring professional registration, clinical training and liability insurance. Thirdly, keep in mind that you want a therapist who is knowledgeable about the area you want help with. Lastly, remember that you are paying for a service and it is imperative that you feel comfortable with your therapist. You can approach the first session as an opportunity for you to interview the therapist in order to determine whether you feel comfortable with the therapist. If you do not feel comfortable, the therapist can refer you to another therapist who might be a better fit.

What is confidentiality?

When can confidentiality be broken? Confidentiality means that all communications and records relating to the provision of clinical services are private and confidential. This information may not be disclosed without your written consent. It is important to know that the law places certain limits on the confidential nature of clinical services. These limits may arise if the therapist perceives that there is a risk of harm in situations such as the following:

• If you present an imminent danger to yourself or others, the law requires that steps be taken to prevent such harm;
• If a child is in need of protection, a report must be filed with the appropriate agency or authority;
• If a vulnerable adult is abused or neglected, a report needs to be filed with appropriate government agency.

What are the fees and preferred method of payment?

The preferred method of payment is cash or cheque. The fees range depending on the therapist or psychologist you choose to see. Please call the office for more information. Some therapists accept debit and credit cards, please enquire about this method of payment when you contact the office. Please note that if 24 hours notice is not given for a cancellation, the client will be billed for the missed session.

What is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (make link to http://www.emdrac.ca/) is a method of therapy that has been extensively researched and proven effective for treating people who have survived a traumatic event. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements of many different treatment approached. EMDR has been developed and evolved through the contributions of therapist and researches all over the world.

What is OEI?

One-Eye Integration (add link to http://oneeyeintegration.com/) is a neurologically based series of trauma integration techniques to reduce and resolve the impact of trauma. It can be used on its own or in conjunction with other therapies such as EMDR. It has been successfully used with couples, children/youth and trauma survivors.

What is a Registered Clinical Counsellor?

A RCC is a person approved for private practice and is a registered licensed professional. Most have a Master’s degree in a mental health related field. They provide assessments and therapeutic counselling for people of all ages.

What is a Registered Social Worker?

A RSW is a person who has been approved by the Board of College of Social Workers to practice in BC. They have credentials that meet established standards, have made a commitment to adhere to Code of Ethics and promote excellence in social work practice by encouraging high standards of practice.

What is a Registered Psychologist?

A Registered Psychologist is a person approved for private practice and is a registered professional. Psychologists provide diagnostic, assessment, testing, therapeutic and counselling services.