Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How does counselling work?

Counselling involves a confidential conversation between a therapist and a client (or clients) about the client's area of concern within the context of a safe environment.  The process begins with a clear identification of the presenting issue, followed by the establishment of mutually agreed upon goals and an action plan tailored to the client's needs.  Assessment of progress each session is essential to determine whether the goals and action plan need to be revised. There is a general consensus among professionals that the ultimate goal in counselling is client empowerment, not long-term dependency on this service.  Sometimes it may be emotionally difficult to end a meaningful relationship with a therapist, but this is inevitable if counselling is to be successful. Appointments typically take place once a week in the beginning, and as clients become more self-sufficient, sessions are reduced in frequency.  Counselling sessions are normally 50 minutes long, with the remaining 10 minutes dedicated to note-taking, scheduling, and billing purposes.  

2. What are the risks and benefits?

At times counselling may feel like work. You may find certain topics difficult or painful to talk about and experience emotional discomfort. However, many clients will tell you that the rewards of engaging in this process is immense, some of which include: gaining a greater insight into oneself, viewing situations from different perspectives, acquiring more coping and problem-solving skills, and establishing healthier and more meaningful relationships.  I like to view counselling work as exercising the mental and emotional "muscles" in our brain. Over time, they will inevitably grow stronger and help you cope with future life challenges.

3. How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions depends on the client's presenting issue(s).  Short-term counselling can be as short as 2 or 3 sessions while long-term work can extend beyond a year. This is determined with a therapist upon identifying the primary area of concern, the client's goals, and what the action plan would entail to attain those goals.

4. Is everything we talk about kept confidential?

It is a therapist's ethical and legal duty to maintain strict confidentiality at all times. This means that whatever is said in the room stays in the room. However, there are a few exceptions to confidentiality that clients need to be aware of:

-If a client is at danger to him/herself or others
-If information disclosed in a session suggests that a child under the age of 19 has been or is at risk of being abused or neglected
-If the therapist receives a court order to disclose client information

5. What if my needs are not met in our sessions?

This is not uncommon. Sometimes there is a lack of fit between a client and a therapist. I encourage clients to share this with me so I can connect them to another therapist or other resources in the community that might better meet their needs. I do my best to ensure a smooth transition.