FAQs

What should I expect from my first visit?

In your first visit, your counsellor will go through the counselling agreement and the confidentiality statement with you. This will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have about the service or the counsellor. This session is also an opportunity for you to get to know your counsellor and determine whether or not this is a good fit for you.

If I call today, how soon will I hear back from a counsellor?

Our goal is to return all inquiries about counselling whether by phone or email within one to two business days.

Is everything I talk about in my sessions kept confidential?

Our counsellors hold to the highest level of integrity, and work to keep your information secure. However, there are two limits to confidentiality – if a child is in danger of abuse, and/or the client is suicidal and refuses to create a safety plan. This can be further discussed in your first session to address any of your concerns.

How much do the sessions cost?

Fees are based on a sliding scale ranging from $50 – $100. If you are not sure where you are on the sliding scale, you can discuss this with your counsellor in your initial session. A limited number of sessions may be available at $25 per hour in certain cases.

Are the counsellors certified and what does that mean?

Our counsellors are registered with governing boards that are dedicated to the recognition of competence and professionalism in counselling and psychotherapy.  See ‘About us’ for more specific information about their credentials.

Is your office accessible?

Our office is conveniently located very close to the Columbia skytrain station. If arriving by car, we have a parkade right behind our building that charges approximately $1.25 per hour.

Is there a waiting list?

No, we currently do not have a waiting list and are able to see clients right away.

How long are the sessions?

Each session ranges from 50-60 minutes.

What if I don’t feel comfortable with my counsellor?

This is a very important question.  If you decide that your counsellor is not the right fit for you, we are happy to discuss this and provide an alternative. It is our desire to see that you benefit from counselling and find the help that you need, even if it is not from us.

How long can I stay in therapy?

Every person’s journey is different so there is no specified number of sessions. The length of therapy can vary depending on the nature of the presenting issues.  It is our goal to support you through this healing and work at the pace that you are comfortable with. You may discuss with your counsellor what seems best for you throughout the time you work together.  We are here to support you in your process, not inform you of what you need to do.

What if I cannot afford to pay? 

Your initial half hour is free and will give you the opportunity to address any issues around fee payment. Your counsellor will attempt to help you define how much you can afford to pay for each session. Because our counsellors are registered, there is a possibility that your extended health plan can cover the cost.

What if my partner wants to see you?

We definitely understand the value of both parties working together but have found that traditional “marriage counselling” is ineffective when abuse is present until both parties have done some individual work.  We definitely will assist your partner in finding some appropriate supports.

Do you counsel people who have been abusive?

Yes, our counsellors do have the ability to work with individuals who have misused power.

What does it mean that your counsellors are faith-based, and do I need to be religious?

Although WINGS Counselling has a theological foundation of faith based counselling and adheres to a Christian worldview, we are respectful of individual’s own faith perspective and understanding, and do not practice “Biblical Counselling” or “Christian Counselling” per se.

Being faith based counsellors simply means that our framework or worldview is based on biblical foundations.  It is not our intent to force our views on anyone.  Please feel free to discuss any concerns with your counsellor – especially those related to a potential conflict in world views.

What if my situation is not that bad? 

Abuse in any form or severity is impactful and we are conscious of how abuse even in its mildest form can be detrimental to one’s emotional health and well-being.

What if I quit counselling, can I return?

Absolutely. We understand that sometimes working through issues can be overwhelming, and might cause you to need to take some time away from your counselling sessions. If and when you are ready to return, we are more than happy to continue with you.

How do I know when to quit counselling?

Counselling is not a linear process.  There are times that we all need extra support and we want to be there to support you during these times.  We also want to help you learn new skills and methods of supporting yourself.  We encourage you to try out your newly learned skills on your own with confidence knowing that our doors will remain open to you.

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *