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
• 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 such as 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 60 minutes in length, 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?
Yes. 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 is a Registered Professional Counsellor trained at the Counsellor
Training Institute of Canada. She has proven her competency through extensive
testing , practicum, and completing 2 years of supervised internship. She has
qualified as a Full Member of both the Canadian Professional Counsellors
Association and the Canadian College of Professional Counsellors and
Psychotherapists and carries Professional Liability Insurance.
Margo continues to increase her knowledge base by attending workshops, seminars
and conferences that are relevant to the needs of her clients. She is also 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, and other crimes or trauma.
