What can I expect?
During the initial session it is a chance for us to get to know one another and see what is going to work for you. There are many different options of what we can do when we get together. It is important for you to feel safe and comfortable with the counsellor you are working with.
How will it benefit me?
Most of that is up to you! I’m not here to tell you what to do or how to do it. I am here to listen and then explore with you the possibilities of how to move forward.
How will I feel?
Likely you will feel a wide range of emotions while in counselling … angry, frustrated, nervous, scared, uncomfortable, relief, happy, positive, strong. It is often the negative emotions that bring a person to counselling. My hope is that through the counselling process you will gain skills to be able to move beyond the negative and into positive emotions. I am here to listen without judging and will respect your thoughts and feelings.
Where will sessions take place?
Sessions will take place in my mobile office (motorhome) unless otherwise decided upon due to circumstances or weather.
How long are sessions?
A ‘counselling hour’ is typically 50 minutes in length, but I often will meet with people for a full 60 minutes. Sessions may be longer if mutually agreed upon.
How often will I have to come?
Typically I like to see people once a week as it is important to build and maintain the counselling relationship. Together we will decide on a schedule that works best for your situation.
How many sessions will I need?
I can’t tell you that. It will depend on the goals we set, if we feel that the goals have been accomplished, or if there is anything else you would like to address. Some people only need one or two sessions, some people are involved in counselling long term.
If you are on a probation order, you may be mandated to attend a certain number of sessions.
Do you keep notes?
Yes, I do keep brief notes to track what has happened in the sessions. I am the only one with access to these notes. Information from your records is only shared with written consent from you and/or when required by law.
Who will know what we talk about?
Confidentiality is VERY important in a counselling relationship. There are some legal limitations to confidentiality that, as a counsellor, I am obligated to follow:
- You tell me you plan to cause serious harm or death to yourself.
- You tell me you plan to cause serious harm or death to someone else.
- You or another minor (or dependent adult) is being abused (physically, sexually or emotionally) or that you have been abused in the past.
- You are involved in a court case and a request is made for information about your counselling or therapy.
There may be times when I discuss aspects of my sessions in clinical supervision or consultation. This is done in a way so as to protect the identity, anonymity and confidentiality of those I work with.
In your first session you will sign a Consent for Services which will include all issues concerning confidentiality.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment with me by telephone at 403-264-6500.
Because of my schedule I may not be able to answer the phone. Please leave a message on my confidential voice mail and I will get back to you within 24 hours.
Please note that if you are a minor (under the age of 18) that your parent or guardian must be involved for permission and payment.
How much does it cost?
Sessions are $120 plus GST per counselling hour.
I do have a limited number of sessions I can offer on a sliding scale. Please contact me to discuss your situation.
How do I pay?
Payment is by cash or cheque at the time of service.
Will my insurance cover it?
Services may be covered by benefit plans or health spending accounts. Please contact your insurance provider to determine if they cover counselling with a Canadian Certified Counsellor. Counselling is not covered by Alberta Health Care. Counselling is a tax deductable medical expense.