Do you provide virtual appointments?
Yes, while most sessions are provided in-person, they can also be via secure videoconferencing or phone.
What are your fees?
The fee is $150 per 50 minute session for both individual and couples counselling. Prepayment by etransfer is preferred. Cash or cheque are also accepted.
What are your hours and how far ahead are you booked?
Appointments are available Monday through Friday with the earliest appointment at 9am and the latest at 5pm with some variability depending on the day. Appointments are typically available within 1-2 weeks depending on flexibility with times.
Do you accept third party coverage?
Fees may be covered by your extended health plan, ICBC, or workers compensation program. Fees are not covered by the BC Medical Services Plan. I encourage you to research details about any counselling coverage you may have before scheduling your first appointment.
Do you do direct billing for extended health insurance?
At this time, direct billing is available for Pacific Blue Cross only.
What’s your cancellation policy?
A minimum 24 hours cancellation notice is required to avoid being charged in full for the session.
Do you provide free initial consultations?
Initial consultations are not provided as first sessions are comprehensive and the aim is to get as much benefit out of every appointment. Brief initial phone calls are available for answering any additional questions you might have.
Is the counselling confidential?
Protecting the privacy of your personal information is an ethical obligation that I take very seriously. This includes all verbal and written communication and documentation. I will not disclose any information about you or your family without written permission, except in a limited number of circumstances:
- If a child is being abused or at risk of abuse (sexual, physical, emotional) reporting to the appropriate authorities is mandatory.
- If there is a possibility that a client or anyone else may be in need of protection from serious physical harm or injury confidentiality may be broken.
- If a judge orders me to provide information, records, or reports I must comply.
To improve the quality of counselling I may share non-identifying information with a professional colleague who acts as my clinical supervisor. All shared information is kept confidential between myself and this person.
What should I expect at the first counselling session?
At the first session we will discuss your reasons for coming and what you hope to gain from counselling. With the identified goals in mind, I will guide you through an exploration of your thoughts and feelings regarding current or past events. This way we can gain a better understanding of your situation and the types of changes that are needed, such as processing emotions, or trying new ways of seeing things, new behaviors, and new skills.
How long does counselling/therapy last?
Counselling can be short or long-term. It can be focused on a specific issue or involve a deeper exploration of your life. The duration of counselling is different for everyone. I encourage open discussion regarding the duration and progress of the counselling and whether your expectations are being met.
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be booked by filling in the online booking form, by sending an email to jacques@journeycounselling.com, or by leaving a voice or text message at 250.885.0506. All messages are replied to within 24 hrs on business days.
