Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need counselling?

It may be an appropriate time to seek help if you are experiencing any of the following:
• Feelings of helplessness or hopelessness
• Personal or unresolved issues interfering with sleep or eating habits
• Persistent worry
• Prolonged sadness
• Feeling depressed, lethargic
• Thoughts of suicide or wanting to harm yourself or someone else
• Inappropriate mood swings, angry outbursts or crying for no apparent reason

Friends and family can offer invaluable comfort and support, but only trained counsellors can offer proven therapeutic techniques that are designed to help you identify and change problem areas and aid you in becoming happy and healthy. You are worth it!

What will people think if they find out I am receiving therapy?

It's natural to feel a little apprehensive about the possibility of being labeled. We cannot control what others think, feel, say or do but we can control how we react to them. A healthy person chooses to seek help. Many professional people including Therapists, Counsellors, police officers, firefighters, lawyers and CEO's seek counselling to help them cope with work-related and personal issues. The time and effort you put into your sessions can empower you to have a happier life!

Do I need a referral?

No professional referral is needed unless you require in-home counselling due to illness or challenges.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions are usually 50 minutes in length,with 10 minutes for administrative work.However, the first session will be 90 minutes due to the completion of the Clinical Assessment. The additional 30 minutes is free!

Are my sessions covered by MSI?

Unfortunately they are not - even if you are referred by your family physician. In Nova Scotia only physicians and psychiatrists are covered by MSI.

Will my private insurance pay for the sessions?

Some Health Plan Providers and EAP’S will cover your sessions. You will be given an official receipt at the end of the session for your submission to your provider.

Are my sessions confidential?

Absolutely! Your privacy is important and nothing about your therapy will be released to anyone without your written consent with the EXCEPTIONS of :
1. If you are assessed to be a danger to yourself or others,
2. If there is an indication of child abuse,
3. If subpoenaed by a court of law.

How many sessions will I need?

Every one is different and their progress varies. Depending on your needs, you may require two sessions or twenty. The client decides when their goals of therapy have been achieved.

How often will I meet with my Counsellor?

Depending on your needs, you can schedule your sessions weekly, bi-monthly or monthly.

What are my Counsellor's qualifications?

Margo and Eva are Registered Professional Counsellors trained at the Counsellor Training Institute of Canada. They each have proven their competencies through extensive exams and practicums, joined with the completion of 2 years of supervised internship. They each have qualified as Full Members with their Master Practitioner of Counselling Psychology designation with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association and are members of the Canadian College of Professional Counsellors and Psychotherapists and carry Professional Liability Insurance.

Margo and Eva continue to increase their knowledge base by attending workshops, seminars and conferences that are relevant to the needs of their clients. They have completed continuing education courses through Dalhousie University School of Social Work and other accredited organizations and associations.

Margo is a volunteer member of the Halifax Regional Police Victim Services On-scene Mobile Response Unit, offering emotional support and resources to victims of domestic violence,sudden death grief support,suicide intervention, and other crimes or trauma.