Counselling is like a series of conversations where you can explore your challenges and concerns; and look for solutions. It is a chance for you to release feelings, worries or fears that may be pent-up inside. It is a place to find support and encouragement. Counselling is a ‘collaboration.’ I offer you a variety of strategies and you help guide the session by letting me know what tools work best for you.

In the beginning, you and I review your history of the issue(s) that brought you to counselling and discuss your life as it relates to your presenting concern. We will determine what you want to get out counselling and develop goals and a framework for the therapeutic work you and I will do together. Above all, the first session is a chance for you to get comfortable and share you concerns. I am warm and welcoming and aim to make you feel safe and relaxed.

Only you can decide whether you wish to try counselling. Just talking to someone confidentially can make a difference. It’s common to feel nervous or afraid about discussing your personal issues with someone. A counsellor can help you develop better ways of coping with your concerns. Use your free 15-minute no cost/no obligation phone consultation to explore how you and I might be able to work together to help you live the life you deserve.

That is entirely up to you and your needs. Many prefer weekly sessions in the beginning and may move to less frequent appointments when they feel they are coping better. Others might want to meet multiple times during the week or twice a month. It’s not uncommon to take a break from counselling for a while and come back when and if you need to. Go at your own pace.

I trust you to make up your own mind and choose the focus of your sessions. That being said, many clients discover that current problems relate in some way to past issues including early childhood. While it’s not helpful to dwell on the past, part of your healing may involve revisiting earlier experiences and to reprocess them in a way that helps you gain peace and closure.

There are no regulations around using the word ‘counsellor.’

A counsellor with a M.Ed. or M.A. has a Masters Degree, which takes an additional 2-or-more years after attaining a 4-year Bachelor’s Degree. Masters’ Programs include lengthy practicums supervised by experienced counsellors with strict educational requirements.

Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC’s) are registered with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). BCACC is a professional body that verifies a counsellor’s level of education (minimum Masters’ Degree in Counselling, related field or Social Work), ensures the Counsellor has course work in key areas of study including ethics, and conducts a criminal record check prior to allowing the Counsellor to register as a Member.

Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC) are certified through the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and have similar requirements and guidelines to RCC’s.

Other counsellor certifications can vary greatly. You have a right to ask your prospective counsellor questions in order to find out more about them and their background. This will help you determine if they are a good fit for you.