This phone call is a chance to learn a little more about my services, discuss what you are seeking in therapy and cover any logistical questions about the next steps. This is not a therapy session but more an opportunity to ask questions, set up an initial appointment and get a feel for one another.

The biggest predictor of positive change in therapy is if the client and counsellor establish a relationship of trust and mutual respect. My goal is to establish a connection with each of my clients in a space that is open, non judgemental and welcoming. It is often scary to start therapy and even more if you do not know what to expect. I want to take the time to understand your unique needs, strengths and challenges as you take the difficult (and courageous) step to face life's ups and downs head on. Not every therapist will be the right fit for you. Taking the time to research, chat on the phone and attend a session or two is important to finding the right person to work with. 

Therapy is an opportunity to face life's challenges with the support of a trained clinical counsellor at your side. It's a chance to gather your individual strengths to formulate a new path forward. It is coming to a place of acceptance and understanding that some challenges in our lives are unavoidable. We will all experience difficult loss, grief and heartbreak and counselling can help you get through the darkest times. Through examination of unhealthy thought patterns and finding better ways to cope, clients often report feeling better simply by telling their story. Holding in the hard stuff and bottling emotions is a breeding ground for stress, anxiety and depression.  Therapy can assist with the processing of difficult emotions and lead to happier, more balanced and fulfilled lives.  It is a process that works, but it also requires effort. The counsellor role is to support, guide, ask relevant and important questions that lead to new perspectives and ways of seeing. It is not a linear process but it is an important one. Logistically, each therapy session is 50 minutes long with a few minutes afterwards to wrap up the day's discussion, review action items and scheduling.

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in British Columbia, many extended health insurance companies cover the cost of therapy up to a certain amount (usually at least $500 annually but some are higher). Not all insurance companies cover it so please check with your provider. For now, the costs of therapy is out of pocket if you do not have insurance. However, there is positive news on the horizon when it comes to investing in mental health. More government support is coming to BC in the future. I look forward to sharing more specific news about this exciting development sooner rather than later. For now, think of counselling as an investment to a healthier, happier and more productive self. Don't we all deserve to be the best version of ourselves?