Question 1

What is counselling?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is a professional service that helps individuals overcome personal challenges, improve mental health, and enhance overall well-being.

Question 2

Does Counselling work?

Accepted Answer

Counselling is widely recognized as an effective form of treatment. According to the American Psychiatric Association,(https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/psychotherapy ) about 75% of individuals who receive therapy benefit from it. Research shows that therapy can lead to significant improvements in emotions, behaviours, symptom relief, and daily functioning. In order to maximize the benefits of therapy, approach it as a collaborative effort, stay open and honest, and follow through on treatment plans and assignments.

Question 3

Who can benefit from counselling?

Accepted Answer

Anyone experiencing stress,(https://www.lorraineng.com/work-stress-burnout) anxiety,(https://www.lorraineng.com/anxiety-therapy) depression, relationship issues, grief, trauma, low self-esteem or other mental health challenges can benefit from counselling. However, even if you are not struggling with any mental health challenges, counselling provides you with a safe place to self-explore and gain self-awareness to live a more authentic and intentional life.

Question 4

How do I know if I need therapy and if my problem is “bad” enough?

Accepted Answer

Many people wonder if their issues warrant therapy. If you've been considering it for a while, it's probably worth giving it a try. Therapy can be helpful if you've ever felt anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or stressed, or if you're dealing with relationship or family difficulties, boundary issues, trauma, a tough life experience, addiction, or grief.

Question 5

What types of counselling services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

I primarily offer individual counselling, specializing in Anxiety Therapy,(https://www.lorraineng.com/anxiety-therapy) Asian Canadian Therapy,(https://www.lorraineng.com/asian-canadian-therapy) Career Counselling,(https://www.lorraineng.com/career-counselling) Work Stress & Burnout Treatment,(https://www.lorraineng.com/work-stress-burnout) and International Student Counselling.(https://www.lorraineng.com/international-students-counselling)

Question 6

How often and how long would I need therapy for?

Accepted Answer

The duration and frequency of therapy vary depending on your situation. Typically, sessions are weekly or bi-weekly at the start to build momentum, then we might transition to monthly sessions. Some clients achieve their goals in 10-12 sessions within 3-4 months, while others may prefer ongoing support for years. We'll discuss a treatment plan in our first session that suits your financial and emotional needs, and I'll work with you to determine what works best.

Question 7

Do you offer online or in-person counselling sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I offer teletherapy sessions via secure video conferencing for clients who prefer to do healing work from the comfort of their own homes or require remote services. I also offer in-person sessions for those who prefer to connect in person. My office is located at 3665 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5W2.

Question 8

Is an online counselling session effective?

Accepted Answer

Many people find online counselling to be just as effective as in-person sessions. It's convenient and you can still build a strong therapeutic relationship with me. You'll receive a link to the video call and can log in when it’s time for your appointment.

Question 9

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

My fee is $165 per a 50-minute session. Payments can be made via e-transfer or credit card.

Question 10

Does my insurance cover my session?

Accepted Answer

If your insurance plan covers a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), you can submit your invoices to your insurance provider for reimbursement after your payment. Direct billing is not available, so please double-check with your insurance company to ensure your sessions are covered.

Question 11

What if I can’t afford counselling?

Accepted Answer

I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots for students. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me for more details.

Question 12

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can schedule an appointment by calling 778-300-5031, using our online booking system,(https://lorraineng.janeapp.com/) or emailing me directly.

Question 13

What are your hours of operation?

Accepted Answer

I'm available Monday to Wednesday, 2 pm - 7 pm. Sunday appointments are also available upon request.

Question 14

What should I expect during my first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session is an intake session where I'll gather information to understand your situation, set specific goals, establish a focus for our sessions, and develop a plan tailored to your needs.

Question 15

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Please provide 24-hour notice to cancel or reschedule your appointment so that the time slot can be filled with another client in need. If you don't provide 24-hour notice or fail to show up, a fee equivalent to your regular session fee will be applied.

Question 16

Is my information kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all sessions and personal information are kept confidential under professional ethical guidelines and legal requirements.

Question 17

Are there any exceptions to confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

Exceptions include situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or as required by law (e.g., reporting child abuse).

Question 18

How do I choose the right therapist for me?

Accepted Answer

When choosing a counsellor, consider their qualifications, areas of expertise, and how comfortable you feel with them. Here’s a guide on How to Find the Right Therapist (https://www.lorraineng.com/post/how-to-find-the-right-therapist-in-bc-a-step-by-step-guide-to-choosing-the-best-fit-for-your-mental)t(https://www.lorraineng.com/post/how-to-find-the-right-therapist-in-bc-a-step-by-step-guide-to-choosing-the-best-fit-for-your-mental)hat includes helpful questions to ask yourself during the decision process. You can also learn more about me (https://www.lorraineng.com/therapist-about)to see if I might be a good fit. If you’re unsure, I offer a free 20-minute consultation to help you decide before booking your first session.

Question 19

Can I end counselling at any time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can end our therapeutic relationship whenever you like. I encourage you to let me know when you'd like to end so we can have a termination session to reflect on what has helped or not helped, and to celebrate your progress.

Question 20

Can I switch counsellors if I feel like you aren’t a good fit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can switch counsellors if you feel I'm not a good fit. It's important to find a counsellor with whom you feel comfortable and understood. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with me first, so we can try to resolve any issues together. If needed, I can refer you to other colleagues who might be a better fit for you.

Question 21

What modalities do you use?

Accepted Answer

I take an integrative approach to counselling. My primary modalities are Adlerian,(https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/therapy-types/adlerian-therapy) Internal Family Systems,(https://ifs-institute.com/resources/articles/internal-family-systems-model-outline) Somatic Approach,(https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-is-somatic-therapy-202307072951) and Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy.(https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral) I also incorporate art therapy exercises, stress reduction and relaxation techniques, such as drawing, mindfulness and guided imagery. These techniques aim to increase self-awareness, regulate your nervous system, challenge your blind spots, and discover your inner strength. I believe that clients have the capacity and inner strength to overcome their problems. Through therapy, you'll feel empowered and find the courage to face life's challenges.

Question 22

What if it’s an emergency?

Accepted Answer

If you’re in an emergency and don’t feel safe, please seek medical attention at your local Emergency Department or call 9-1-1.
If you’re thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8 (the free suicide hotline in Canada).
If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, please call the crisis centre a(https://www.crisiscentre.bc.ca/get-support/)t 310-6789.

Counselling and Mental Health Services FAQs