1. What is Clinical Counselling, Therapy and/or Psychotherapy?
Different words, but they mean the same thing: within a counselling setting, we talk about anything that you need to talk about, whether it be your feelings, emotions, goals, behaviours, relationships or personal growth.
Counselling could be a catalyst for the change you are seeking.
How you feel about your counsellor will affect your counselling.
Consider these questions when looking for a counsellor: Do you feel a connection? Do you feel safe? Is there trust? Do you feel free from judgements?
Trust your gut when choosing a counsellor.
2. What are the risks and benefits of counselling?
Benefits: you will gain awareness, clarity, confidence, new perspectives, independence, control, strength, acceptance and INSIGHTS.
Counselling, if you choose to allow, will guide you into breaking self defeating patterns that may be hindering your personal growth.
Risks: you may find that counselling will bring up memories and emotions that might be uncomfortable. Fear may be present as well. It would be beneficial to voice when such emotions and memories surface, so you can explore what is going on and why.
3. How is talking to a therapist/counsellor different from talking to friends or family?
Healthy relationships with friends and family is paramount because we all need that support; Sharing of information is mutual hence it might be difficult to be objective.
Talking to a counsellor/therapist is a one way street. We are professionally trained to understand your presenting issue and create a therapeutic process to help you. The process is practical and soulful, if you will allow it to be.
Nothing is forced; The process will be mindful regarding your comfort level.
It is a non-judgemental space that focuses entirely on you to express freely what you may be thinking and feeling.
4. What does the RCC credential mean?
A Registered Clinical Counsellor is a certified member of BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, BCACC.
RCC designation informs you that the counsellor has received extensive, comprehensive and professional training, adheres to professional code of ethics and maintains a high level of professional competence.
5. Are sessions confidential?
Everything that you talk about is confidential except in these 3 areas
suspected child or elder abuse
imminent risk of suicide or homicide
court order made to subpoena your files
Every reasonable effort will be made to make you aware if I have to breach confidentiality due to the above limitations before releasing any information.
6. How many sessions do you need?
Everyone is different in what they are seeking through counselling.
Brief therapy is about 6 to 10 sessions.
You may choose to attend more sessions if you are interested in exploring deep and complex issues.
7. Is counselling covered by medical plan?
Many healthcare providers offer some coverage. Please check with provider to make sure if they cover Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs).