FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Common Questions About Counselling

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COUNSELLING AND THERAPY?

Clinical counselling and (psycho)therapy are two words for the same thing. Counselling is based on a trusting relationship between myself, the counsellor, and you, the client.
Counselling offers specialized support, skills and action planning to improve your holistic health.
I provide trauma-informed counselling that allows you talk about your concerns with in a nonjudgmental environment. Our collaborative relationship allows us both to be active participants in improving your health.

HOW DO I SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT?

For in-person sessions, telehealth (video counselling) and group mindfulness classes in Coquitlam, contact Westwood Total Health.
For in-person sessions, and telehealth (video counselling) Port Coquitlam, contact Advance Health and Wellness.
For email therapy and phone counselling please complete the contact form for a consultation.
All information can be found on the Contact page.

WILL MY HEALTH INSURANCE COVER THERAPY?

Counselling is covered by most insurance plans. You will want to double check that you plan covers sessions by an RCC, as some plans only cover certain designations (i.e., RPsych).
If you've been in a motor vehicle accident, ICBC covers 12 counselling sessions.

HOW LONG ARE COUNSELLING SESSIONS AND HOW MANY WILL I NEED?

Counselling sessions are 50-minutes long (sometimes referred to as the therapeutic hour).
Most clients need 10-20 sessions of counselling. However, every person is unique and some people need less and some people need more. You and I will work together to determine how many sessions you will need as we progress through the counselling process.
Remember that change is often slow. Be patient with yourself and the process.

WHAT TECHNIQUES ARE USED?

I primarily use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) which can be described a n existential, experiential form of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
I integrate elements of mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), CBT, and somatic techniques as needed.

IS COUNSELLING CONFIDENTIAL?

Confidentiality is extremely important to me, and as such everything you say to me stays between us.

There are a few limitations to confidentiality:

If I become aware that there is risk of you harming yourself or someone else.
If I become aware that a child or a vulnerable adult is being abused.
If the court subpoenas my records or asks me to testify.

FAQ: FAQ