What is Counselling or therapy?
Counselling can also be called talk therapy. It involves sitting down with a trained professional to explore situations, behaviours, thoughts, feelings and even dreams that have been causing distress, pain or anxiety. The concerns that can be brought to the therapy session are as wide and broad as human experience itself. As the counsellor, I will bring all my skills, training and wisdom to support you in getting to the place you want to go.
How do I know if therapy will work?
Evidence-based research has shown there is a high degree of success when the therapist and client together have created a bond based on respect and trust. That is important to me. I think therapy is both a science and an art. You have my commitment to form a partnership with you. Success also depends on the motivation of the client to invest time and energy toward their healing.
Who will know if I go to therapy?
Only the people you tell will know. Everything you say in a session is held in strictest confidence.
There are three exceptions to this confidence that are explicitly explained at the first session:
if the counsellor has reason to believe a child may be at risk of abuse or neglect,
if the client is at risk of harming self or others,
if there is a legal subpoena for the client's file.
In these situations the counsellor is legally required to contact other community and/or social agencies like Emergency Medical Technicians, Victoria Police Department or the Ministry of Children and Family Development. If there is a subpoena, the file goes to the lawyer requesting it.
Will my counsellor tell me what to do or solve my problem for me?
No. This is a common misconception. Counsellors rarely, if ever, give advice or suggestions. They may offer various breathing and grounding techniques if anxiety is the issue, as I do, for example. No one can solve another person's problems. I will work with you to form a partnership of trust where we explore the various factors informing your concerns.
What does therapy cost?
Among counsellors costs vary widely, as do payment options. British Columbia Medical Services Plan does not cover the cost of counsellors. Group insurance, employee wellness benefits, cash and credit cards are generally accepted. Many counsellors have a sliding scale and their fees are posted on their web site.
My fees are at the lower end of the scale at $80 for an individual and $100 for couples. I accept cash and provide receipts to claim toward group health insurance plans.
In the animal world, using the senses is a critical ability. It keeps the animal from being eaten by predators; and it allows predators to hunt their prey.