How do I know if I need counselling?

You are the best judge of whether or not you will benefit from talking to a professional counsellor. 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 and who refers me?

You can self-refer, meaning you just call the counsellor's office yourself, or you can be referred by a third party. This is often your family physician or another health professional but it can also be a social worker, a lawyer, or even the Courts.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions are normally 50 - 60 minutes except for the first session. This is the initial session where you and the counsellor take care of the administrative paperwork and where you both go through a Clinical Assessment together. Don't worry, you will only be charged for a one hour session even if it takes 90 minutes.

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. You will have to pay for your sessions.

Will my private insurance pay for the sessions?

You should check with your insurance provider. Most insurances indicate coverage for counselling by a psychologist or a counsellor with a Masters Degree. British Columbia has made progress in this area with some B.C.-based medical insurance companies providing coverage for counselling by a professional counsellor. Nova Scotia has not yet made this change.

Are my sessions confidential?

Yes. Your privacy is important and nothing about your therapy will released to anyone without your written consent. However, as we've indicated in the Confidentiality Page, we are bound by the law and our code of ethics to breach this confidence if ordered by a court, if we suspect child abuse or if we believe the client will harm themselves or someone else.

What are our qualifications?

We are certified Registered Professional Counsellors (candidates) and members of the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association as well as the CPCA's Atlantic Chapter. We are certified to practice anywhere in Canada and must hold Professional Liability Insurance.

How many sessions will I need?

Each person will come into therapy with their unique presenting problems that may require different types of intervention. A few sessions into therapy, the client may discover other issues they were not aware of that will also need intervention. Each intervention may vary in their length. Ultimately, the goal is to help the client through their presenting problems so they may lead healthier and happier lives. The number of sessions will vary with each client but usually can be anywhere from 10 to 15 or 20.

How often will I have to attend?

In order for the therapy to be effective it is recommended that the client seeks treatment at least once per week. However, it's understood that there may be mitigating circumstances that might prevent this from happening such as business, travel, finances, and other reasons. Discuss your circumstance with your counsellor before you decide to stop or space out your counselling.