Frequently Asked Questions
What is the counselling consultation?
We offer complimentary 15-minute consultation sessions for anyone interested in getting to know our counsellors before committing to a full 50-minute counselling session. This brief meeting allows you to see if the counsellor is good fit for your needs. During this consultation, our counsellors will ask about the reasons you’re seeking counselling to ensure we have the right tools and approach to support you. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have about your counsellors therapeutic approach.
What are the risks and benefits of counselling?
Risks: Counselling may involve exploring challenging topics or revisiting difficult memories, which can sometimes evoke stronger emotions than usual. While effective counselling aims to manage and minimize these feelings, this process requires active collaboration between you and your counsellor.
Benefits: Counselling can lead to a deeper understanding of yourself and others, a reduction in symptoms of stress or anxiety, and an overall improvement in personal well-being. You may also acquire coping skills to better handle life’s pressures and build stronger, more stable relationships with family and friends.
Can I use Extended Health Benefits?
Yes, depending on your extended health benefits plan your session may be covered. Our counsellors hold an Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) designation and Registered Social Worker (RSW and MSW ) designation. We encourage you to check your coverage and email us to see if your counsellor falls under the guidelines.
We also offer direct billing for some extended health providers – please inquire to find out if yours is eligible.
Will my counselling sessions be confidential?
Maintaining the confidentiality of the personal information you share is a top priority. Any information discussed during sessions may be documented in your records, which are stored securely in an encrypted, HIPAA-compliant system. Only your counsellor will have access to your file. Your information is kept confidential, except in the following circumstances where disclosure is required by law:
If you are involved in legal proceedings, a court may subpoena your file.
If you express a threat to harm yourself or others, authorities may be notified.
If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult, authorities may be contacted.
If you request that information be shared with another party, such as a physician, or if another party requests your information, you will need to sign a Release of Information form to authorize the release.
Confidentiality with Youth
Confidentiality extends to youth as well. While parents may seek guidance on how to support their teen, we can provide support to parents without disclosing specific details from sessions, provided the youth consents to this.
Teens of Separated or Divorced Parents
Both parents must consent to counselling for their youth to ensure alignment with the therapeutic plan and to support the effectiveness of the therapy.
Family Transitions
We offer therapeutic services to help teens navigate family transitions. However, we do not provide assessments, recommendations, or reports for court-related matters. Both parents involved in Family Law Courts will need to complete additional consent forms.
If you have any questions or need further clarification, please feel free to discuss them with your counsellor or contact the office directly.
How do I book an appointment?
All new clients can book an appointment through:
Option 1:Click here to complete the intake and book a 15 min free consultation.
Option 2: Book through the Jane App appointment calendar.
Option 3: Call 604-506-4160 to speak to book an appointment with one of our counsellors.
Existing clients can log onto their Jane account and book their appointment.
A credit card is required at the time of booking your appointment. Your session payment will be processed on the day of your appointment. Our system is fully encrypted so that all of your information is completely secure.
Can I Book Online
Yes, you may book through the Jane online booking portal for both in person and virtual appointments. However, your first appointment needs to be scheduled directly and your unique access to the portal will be set up for you to book your next appointments.
What are your fees for service?
Our current session rate is $160 for a 50-minute individual session and $190 for a 50-minute couples session (GST not applicable to services by an RCC or RSW counsellor)
If financial concerns are a barrier to accessing therapy, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We offer a limited number of reduced-rate counselling sessions for those who qualify.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can cancel your session with more than 24 hours notice through our online booking site, by emailing us directly, or by contacting the office at 604-506-4160. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice must be done via email or phone and will incur a cancellation fee of 50% of the session cost. If you do not show up for your session without prior notice, you will be charged the full cost of the session.
Do you offer reduced cost services?
We understand that finances can be a barrier to care, if you are experiencing financial strain reach out to learn more about our sliding scale counselling services.
We encourage you to reach out as soon as possible to discuss your situation and see if you qualify. Your well-being is important, and we are committed to providing support within our capacity to do so.
What is your social media policy?
Please read more about our social media policy here
Do you offer child play therapy or teen therapy?
We understand that children and teenagers often require specialized therapeutic approaches tailored to their unique developmental needs. We currently offer therapy for children ages 10 and up.
If you are looking for support for your child under 10 years of age we have a network of trusted professionals who specialize in working with young children that we can suggest.