What to Expect
If you have not worked with a counsellor before, I am happy to answer your questions.
Taking the first step to contact a counsellor is often the hardest and can be a lonely experience. Fear, shame, and overwhelm can freeze you. You may have many questions:
Is this the right decision? Will it work? Is this counsellor the right fit for me? What if I fail? What about my privacy? What will people say if they know that I am in therapy?
New Client Overview
Free Initial Consultation
After you complete the web form, I will email you to organize a free confidential 15-minute telephone/video consultation. This is an opportunity for you to ask questions. This consultation can help us decide whether we are a good fit for each other. Please note that this is not a counselling session.
Intake Session
This is our first session, during which we will get to know each other, discuss your needs in detail, create a vision for your future, and discuss what we need from each other to work well together.This will be the foundation for our work together.
Counselling Session
Initially our focus will be on building our relationship so that you can feel comfortable and safe with me. Our relationship is an important part of your healing, and therefore I will check-in with you regularly for your feedback. You are in control of the process. What you share with me is confidential with some exceptions as required by the law to ensure safety.
Resources
Call or text 9-8-8
Call 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
If you are having suicidal thoughts or making plans to harm yourself
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis
Call 310-6789 (area code not needed)
Online crisis chat line for youth
Aboriginal Crisis Line (KUU-US Crisis Line Society)
Call 1-800-588-8717