Who needs therapy?
Everyone needs some help and support from time to time, people attend therapy for many different reasons. Life changes, divorce/separation, everyday stressors, and new relationships can create difficult transitions that can be very uncomfortable. Many seek counselling to foster personal growth and development and to assist in creating a better life. Therapy can benefit anyone who is looking for support and wishes to develop a greater understanding of self. With the help of a counsellor change is possible.
How long does therapy take?
Therapy is different for everyone- the duration of therapy can be brief to address specific goals or more open ended, depending on the issue(s) being presented. A plan and ongoing dialogue between you and I concerning your therapy sessions is a priority and is part of an ongoing discussion.
What is a Clinical Counselling?
According to the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, Clinical counselling is the practice of using clinical mental health principles, values and techniques to achieve a better understanding of issues and concerns. A Clinical Counsellor can help you develop the insight to recognize, prevent and change undesirable behaviours in your life. When your personal problem-solving efforts are no longer working, a Clinical Counsellor can help you:
- Enhance personal and spiritual growth
- Increase personal effectiveness
- Improve interpersonal relations
- Strengthen coping styles
- Adjust to life transitions
- Find mental health
What does the initial 15 minute consultation look like?
In this brief discussion you will explain the issue(s) that you are hoping to address. I will collect information from you to better understand how I can assist you and if assess if I will be the best fit in working with you. This discussion is typically conducted over the phone however can be completed via Skype. This consultation is free of charge and gives you an idea as to how I work as a counsellor as well as will give me some insight into how I can help you.
What can I expect my first session?
Your first session will be about gathering more information and talking about your specific goal(s)s in therapy. We will be talking together about what you wish to take away from therapy and what you want your journey to look like. During this time you are encouraged to ask me questions and get a sense if we will be a good fit to begin to work together. It is completely normal to feel anxious and uneasy about starting therapy however it is my role to ensure that you feel comfortable and safe throughout our session together. If after your first session you do not feel a connection with me I will make a referral to another counsellor should you wish for me to do so. My number one priority is that you get the support that you need from a counsellor regardless if that person is not me. Should we for whatever reason not be a good fit I will connect and/or refer you to another counsellor in the community.
Is counselling confidential?
Counselling is confidential, what is said in session (or through email, Skype or on the phone) is kept between you and I except in three very specific circumstances. Please read the confidentiality section under the counselling heading on the home page for more information on these exceptions. I will also go over this in detail with you in our first session, please do not hesitate to ask should you have any questions and or concerns.
