Frequently Asked Questions
| "Develop self-awareness and a sense of personal responsibility for your own decisions here and now." |
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- What is a Canadian Certified Counsellor?
- Why do I need counselling?
- What are the benefits of counselling?
- What are the risks of counselling?
- What should I expect in the first session?
- How many sessions will I need?
- How often should I come to counselling?
- What is the cost?
- Is counselling covered by my health care plan?
- Is everything I say in a counselling session confidential?
- How do I make an appointment?
1. What is a Canadian Certified Counsellor?
The Canadian Counselling Association (CCA) “identifies to the public, those counsellors who, through a process of credential evaluation, are judged qualified to provide counselling services.” As a Canadian Certified Counsellor I am required to continue to develop my expertise and adhere to a code of ethics.
2. Why do I need counselling?
Clients seek counselling for many reasons — when in emotional distress, having relationship difficulties, or for extra support during life transitions. And many clients seek counselling as a preventative or self-care measure, for personal growth, or to achieve and maintain wellness.
3. What are the benefits of counselling?
Counselling provides a space and opportunity for you to explore any situations, relationships, behaviours, feelings, or thoughts which are causing difficulty in your life. Counselling provides a source of support during a crisis or difficult time. Counselling can bring deeper personal insight and awareness, better ways of understanding and coping with problems, better functioning in life, and improved relationships. Counselling can bring change.
4. What are the risks of counselling?
Closely examining difficult topics may bring temporary discomfort. It is common to feel emotionally or physically tired after a session due to experiencing stronger than usual emotions. It may help to schedule some time after a session to be alone or to do something you enjoy to allow yourself time to process things that were discussed. As you begin to make changes in yourself you may notice changes in your relationships. These changes are usually positive but may require some adjustment for those around you and issues can usually be resolved by working closely with your counsellor.
5. What should I expect in the first session?
In the first session, you will meet with your counsellor and fill out some paperwork. You will spend time getting to know one another to determine if there is a good fit between you and your counsellor. You will share information about the issues that bring you to counselling and also share your expectations for counselling. Together, you will set goals and make a plan for what to work on in future sessions.
6. How many sessions will I need?
Most clients have between 8-12 sessions of counselling. Many clients have as few as 3-6 sessions. Some clients prefer a more in-depth exploration and like to attend sessions on a more long-term basis. After the initial counselling sessions are completed many clients find it helpful to return for occasional “booster” sessions. You decide what feels right for you and discuss it with your counsellor.
7. How often should I come to counselling?
Most clients come in once a week or once every 2 weeks. Attending sessions on a regular, consistent basis provides the best results.
8. What is the cost?
The fee for each 1-hour counselling session for Individuals is $100, which is recommended in the guidelines set by the Canadian Counselling Association. Please contact us for fees for couples, group sessions and to inquire about our sliding scale policy. Payment is due at the end of each session, and is payable by cash, cheque, VISA or MASTERCARD. Payment in advance for your ongoing sessions is also available via PayPal, contact us for further details if you would like to make your payment online. An official receipt will be issued for each session which you can submit to your extended health care plan (if applicable).
9. Is counselling covered by my health care plan?
BC’s provincial health care plan (MSP) does not cover costs associated with counselling. Many extended health care plans offer reimbursement for seeing a Canadian Certified Counsellor. Initial payment is made to your counsellor and you submit your receipt to your extended health plan for reimbursement. Contact your plan administrator to see if you are eligible.
10. Is everything I say in a counselling session confidential?
Yes, any personal information you share in counselling is kept confidential, even after the counselling relationship comes to an end.
There are some exceptions to the counsellor’s duty of confidentiality, however. Your counsellor may be required to share information if:
a. it is revealed that a child is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect, or in need of protection;
b. your counsellor believes that you or another person is at clear risk of imminent harm;
c. your counsellor is told to comply with a legal order such as a subpoena, or if the disclosure is otherwise required or authorized by law.
In addition, information may be shared with other professional counsellors during ongoing professional supervision, and/or consultation. This is done for professional development purposes only, and your identity will remain confidential.
11. How do I make an appointment?
Call Elsa Valenzuela at 778.855.3594 and leave a message on the confidential voicemail.
Please note: there is no receptionist — your call will be returned as soon as possible during regular business hours.
Email Elsa Valenzuela at elsa.counselling@telus.net
Administrative Services for this Private Practice are provided by MASCI Tutoring & Consulting.
For any administrative questions, please contact us at 604.299.3594 or at masci@telus.net.