Deciding to seek the support of a counsellor can be a difficult choice to make and even more difficult to carry through with.  This is why our primary goal is to create a space and situation that feels comfortable and safe.  The relationship that develops between you and your counsellor is very unique and built on trust, acceptance, complete non-judgement, and understanding. We encourage you to make an appointment or phone consultation to help decide for yourself if counselling is right for you at this time in your life.

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OPTIONAL PHONE CONSULTATION

Some individuals like to dive into the process and some are more cautious.   We encourage people who are interested in coming in for counselling, but are feeling cautious, to text, call or email to arrange a free 15 minute phone consultation.  Contact emails or phone numbers for all counsellors are found in counsellor bios. The consultation is a chance for you to test the waters and ask yourself, “is this someone I feel comfortable talking with?”  In this conversation you can begin to share a bit about yourself and what you are struggling with. You may also feel free to ask questions.  After this conversation, if you feel you would like to continue, we will set up a time for your first full session.  It is our strong belief that finding a counsellor that you feel in harmony with is essential for you to fully benefit from the counselling process and if you do not sense the right fit then we will happily support and encourage your continued search for a better match.

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COUNSELLING SESSION

If you do decide to continue after the phone consultation or if you decide from the get go that you would like to begin with the first full hour long session, then the first step is for your counsellor to start understanding you as a person and also develop an understanding of what you would like to get out of the counselling process. You might want to use the time and space to process current stresses or losses or to understand patterns in your life.  You may want to focus on building skills in coping with life events or you may want to build healthier relationships with your partner or family members.  Or you might not have a clear idea of what you would like to focus on and that is great too! Whatever objectives (or not) you hold, we will help guide you in defining and meeting them.

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Our work as counsellors is informed by several theoretical frameworks, but above all else, we understand that each person is unique and wants to achieve something unique, so we approach each person with gentle curiosity to help understand this uniqueness and support the desired change and growth. Together, you and your counsellor will figure out what works best for you and help you to find what you are seeking whether it is relief, clarity, deeper understanding, or personal growth.