Frequently Asked Questions
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes, new clients are welcome.
Do I need a referral?
No, you may book an appointment with me directly.
How do I arrange a free introductory meeting?
Contact me by email, leave a message on my confidential voicemail or complete the contact form on this website, with a request for an introductory meeting. You may request a phone call instead of a videoconference if you prefer.
How do I book an appointment?
Click the ‘Book Appointment’ button, which links to my online calendar, and follow the prompts. Once I have received your booking, I will send you a confirmation email with a link to access your videoconference and an invoice. If you would prefer a phone session, please make a note of that and provide your phone number.
How do I reschedule my appointment?
Simply click the ‘Reschedule’ button in the appointment confirmation email from GOrendezvous, the online booking platform. Alternatively, you may notify me by email of the date and time you wish to move your appointment. I require a minimum of 24 hours' notice to reschedule an appointment. I will email you to confirm your new appointment time.
How do I cancel my appointment?
Click the ‘Cancel’ button in the GOrendezvous email or notify me by email or voicemail. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice and missed appointments will be billed the full fee.
Do you have a waiting list?
Yes, if you do not see any appointment times that work for you, then you may add yourself to my waiting list by clicking the ‘Book Appointment’ button. Follow the prompts until you see the option to click the ‘Get on the Waiting List’ button. Please provide your availability and I will notify you whether or not I can accommodate your preferences.
Do you provide in-person sessions?
No, I only provide video or phone sessions.
Do my extended health benefits cover counselling?
You will need to contact your insurance provider to find out specifically what mental health services they may cover. There are many types of mental health service providers, including clinical counsellors, psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. If you are interested in working with me, then ask your insurer if they cover clinical counselling or psychotherapy with a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC).
Can you bill my insurance provider directly?
I offer direct billing through Sun Life (Lumino Health) and Telus eClaims with these participating insurance companies. Please note that I am unable to verify whether Sun Life customers have coverage prior to submitting a claim; therefore, you must verify coverage directly with Sun Life prior to booking an appointment.
Is therapy covered by MSP?
The BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not currently cover counselling when it is provided by a private practitioner, like myself. MSP may cover counselling when it is provided by your local health authority. Contact HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 for more information about government-funded counselling options.
Do you have a sliding scale?
Yes, I offer sliding scale fees to people who do not have insurance and cannot otherwise afford my regular fee. Payments may be negotiated based on your household income. Please contact me for more information.
Is there tax on top of the fee listed?
No, as of June 21st, 2024 counselling provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor is exempt from GST and PST.
Can you prescribe medications?
No, I cannot prescribe any mediations. You will need to consult a medical doctor (family doctor, primary care doctor or psychiatrist), naturopathic doctor, pharmacist or psychiatric nurse practitioner about medications.
Do you work with children?
No, I do not currently work with anyone under 13 years old. To find a practitioner who does work with children you can search databases, such as the CCPA, BCACC, Psychology Today, CounsellingBC or BC Play Therapy Association. Filter the search results to those who work with children. You can also contact HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1 for information about child mental health resources.
Do you work with adolescents?
Yes, I work with adolescents aged 13-19 years. I require consent to participate in the counselling process from both the adolescent and parent/guardian(s).