Question 1

Can you bill my insurance company directly?

Accepted Answer

I don't bill insurance directly, but I provide detailed receipts after each session that you can submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Check with your provider to confirm your coverage.

Question 2

What should I expect in my first session?

Accepted Answer

In our first session, we'll talk about what's bringing you in, what you hope to get from therapy, and start getting to know each other. I'll ask questions, you'll share what feels comfortable to share, and we'll start building from there. Therapy is just a conversation where we explore what's going on for you and work together to figure out what helps. You're in control of what you share and how fast we go.

Question 3

How does online therapy work?

Accepted Answer

We meet via secure, encrypted video call using Colib, a Canadian platform built specifically for healthcare. You'll need a private space where you can speak openly, a reliable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or phone all work). I'll send you a link before each session. You click the link at your appointment time, and we meet virtually. It's simple, secure, and research shows it's just as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns.

Question 4

How will I know if therapy is working?

Accepted Answer

We'll check in regularly about your goals and what's shifting for you. Progress isn't always linear, and sometimes things feel harder before they feel easier. You should feel like we're moving somewhere meaningful, like you're understanding yourself better, or like something is loosening or changing. If you're not sure therapy is helping, tell me. We can adjust our approach or explore what's not working.

Question 5

What is a Registered Clinical Counsellor?

Accepted Answer

A Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) is a mental health professional regulated by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC).(https://bcacc.ca/) RCCs hold a Master's degree in counselling or a related field and have completed extensive supervised clinical training. We're qualified to provide psychotherapy and mental health counselling to individuals, couples, and families. Most extended health plans in BC cover RCC services.

Question 6

Will you provide me with a mental health diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

No. In British Columbia, Registered Clinical Counsellors are not authorized to provide formal mental health diagnoses. If you need a diagnosis for medical or other purposes, you would need to see a psychiatrist or psychologist. However, we can still work together effectively without a diagnosis. Many of my clients don't have one, and it doesn't impact the quality of therapy or your ability to make meaningful progress.

Question 7

What is your therapeutic approach?

Accepted Answer

I use an integrative approach tailored to each person. I draw from narrative therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), somatic approaches, and parts work depending on what you need and what resonates with you. My approach is rooted in compassion, curiosity, and collaboration. We figure out together what actually helps.

Question 8

What if I'm in crisis?

Accepted Answer

I don't provide crisis or emergency services. If you're in immediate danger or crisis:

• Call or Text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (https://988.ca/)
 • Call 911
 • Go to your nearest emergency room

If you're experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to these resources right away. They're available around the clock and trained to help.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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