What makes you, the best counsellor for me?

Honestly, I might not be. Every counsellor isn't a great fit for every client. I am a Trauma - Informed, Feminist, Anti-Oppression Counsellor. Everything I do is from that social context. This includes how I understand "illness” and "healing” as well as how I see “change.” I am not your authority. I want to be your partner in this process and support you in arriving at your own solutions and goals.
If you are not sure if we might be a good fit, please consider a free 20 min consultation to ask your questions and concerns.

How do we do this?

That depends on you :) Choosing to pursue counselling services is a very personal process, and looks differently for everyone. Some decide on a set number of sessions, some only schedule when they have a need, and some find they want on-going weekly support. Let’s decide together what you believe your needs are and how we can help you meet them.

What do you mean by “confidential”? Are there any limits to that?

“Confidential” means you are free to speak freely and honestly about your situation without having that information shared, repeated, or discussed with anyone outside of our sessions. I am not allowed to confirm or deny that you are receiving services (if someone wanted to inquire). Please know, I take confidentiality very seriously. My goal as a counsellor is to support people in telling their truths and finding their voices. Trauma makes that a very difficult thing to do.

However, there are limits - times that might require me to discuss our conversations with others. Those times include: 1) If you disclosed an imminent intent to harm or injure your self 2) If you disclose that you are threatening serious harm to another person 3) If you disclose or I believe that there is physical, sexual abuse, neglect, or harm to any person under 18 years of age or any other vulnerable persons; or 4) If our session records were subpoenaed for the use of a court proceeding.

Are your services covered through my extended benefits?

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC#17617), my services are covered by a number of extended health benefit plans. Consult with your service provider to determine the type of coverage you have. You are responsible for paying for our sessions. Then, you may submit a claim to your insurance provider. I will provide you with the required invoice you need to submit for reimbursement.

What’s a sliding scale? Do you have one?

A sliding scale is a “need-based” assessment which allows you access to my services at an established lower rate. A sliding scale allows students, for example, and those without the ability to obtain services at my regular rate an opportunity to get therapeutic support from a qualified trauma counsellor.

Yes, I have a sliding scale. My scale is not disclosed on this site. If you believe you qualify for a reduced rate due to hardship, please contact me directly. I will be happy to provide you with more information.

How do phone & video appointments work?

Online counselling through virtual means allows for consistent mental and emotional support despite location, availability, or time zone. Client confidentiality and safety will always be the primary concern of In-Power Counselling & Services. Currently In-Power Counselling & Services utilizes the virtual tele-health platform doxy.me. https://doxy.me/ which is HIPAA, GDPR, PHIPA/PIPEDA, & HITECH compliant and meets worldwide security requirements.

Phone counselling is a good option for those who find distance and flexibility of scheduling a limit to services, or those who might prefer the comfort of their homes for counselling support. Clients often combine in-person and telephone sessions for the duration of their support journey.

How does your cancellation policy work?

All scheduled appointments either in-person, virtual, and via phone all require a 24-hour notice of cancellation to prevent being charged. Any appointments cancelled with less than 24-hours of the scheduled time will be charged 50% of agreed upon rate. Appointments cancelled with less than 6-hours of the scheduled time will be charged the full agreed upon rate.