In-Person Sessions
If we choose to meet in-person, we will do so in a comfortable, private office in the DataTech Building, near Quadra and McKenzie in Saanich, B.C. It is accessible by bus, bike via Lochside Trail, or there is free parking on-site for your vehicle. There is a welcoming reception area, a gender-inclusive and accessible washroom, and an elevator. In the office, there is lots of room for social distancing and/or moving around during session, and an air purifier to reduce airborne allergens, bacteria and viruses. I am fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and follow guidelines from WorkSafe BC about communicable disease prevention.
Counselling was traditionally only done in-person, and there are some nice things about meeting this way. Sometimes, people find it easier to connect with another person when they are in the same space. Meeting in-person can help with setting aside a time to disconnect from other responsibilities and giving yourself the gift of that time for yourself and nothing else. When we meet in the same room, we do not rely on technology to function properly. The office has a calm, soothing environment that is conducive to the work we will be doing together.
Virtual Sessions
When we meet online it is essential that we each have a private space with a door that closes, so we are not interrupted or overheard. It is important that we are both able to give our full attention to the session, as we would if we were in the same room. And a strong wifi signal is a must.
There are many benefits to virtual sessions. Research shows e-counselling is as effective as in-person counselling. Meeting online eliminates the need to commute or be in a public space. Sometimes it means you can have a counselling session on your lunch break or when you are out of town. It may give you access and privacy that would otherwise be missing; for example, if you live in a rural area or you do not wish to see the counsellors in your community for any reason. It is also a nice option for people who usually come to the office to have a session that would otherwise be cancelled due to illness; if you are feeling well enough to meet but not symptom-free, we can move an in-person session online with very little notice.
Fees
Fees are set in accordance with the guidelines set by the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and payment is by e-transfer or online credit card payment at the end of session. Cash payments are another option at in-person sessions.
50-minute session: $145 incl. GST
Many extended health plans offer full or partial reimbursement of fees paid to a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). Please check with your insurance provider to see what coverage you have. I will provide a detailed receipt upon payment for services for you to submit to your provider.
I offer a free 20-minute consultation by phone or video call if you have questions and/or want to meet me before booking a full session.
If you are unable to attend a scheduled session, please ensure you cancel at least 24 hours ahead or a cancellation fee equal to the amount of the full session fee will be charged.
“What a wonderful thought it is that some of the best days of our lives haven’t even happened yet.”
Anne Frank