COUNSELLING
Why do people attend counselling?
Counselling offers a non-judgmental place to explore and reflect on thoughts, feelings, and life circumstances. Counselling can help individuals process experiences, make positive changes, learn new skills, and gain self-acceptance.
What to expect for the first appointment?
During the first appointment, you will be provided with information about Paragon services and have the opportunity to ask any questions. The first session aims to explore why you have decided to attend counselling and discuss goals you wish to achieve. If counselling support is for a child, a parent will connect with the counsellor separately to provide sensitive or detailed information.
How many sessions will I need?
The number of sessions needed is dependent on each individual. At the start of counselling, it is encouraged that clients consistently attend on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Over time sessions can be less frequent or on an as-needed basis.
Is counselling confidential?
One of the many benefits of counselling is that the information shared in the session is confidential and released only with your permission. There are situations when counsellors are legally obligated to break confidentiality. These circumstances are listed below.
If a counsellor suspects that you or someone else is at risk of imminent harm (threats of homicide or suicide, etc.).
If a counsellor suspects that a child or vulnerable person may be at risk of harm (abuse, neglect, exposure to domestic violence, etc.).
If a counsellor needs to comply with a legal process (ex. Subpoena from a judge).
In the circumstances above, counsellors will only disclose the necessary information to ensure safety and comply with legal processes.
Parents Caregivers
What do children do in counselling?
Children attend counselling for a variety of reasons. Unlike adults, children aren’t always able to describe their thoughts and feelings using words. Counselling helps children express themselves and learn new skills through fun and creative activities, such as art, games, and stories.
Do children attend sessions on their own?
Parents and caregivers are the most significant people in a child’s life. Involvement in the counselling process is essential. The level of parent participation is dependent on the child and reasons for attending counselling. Parents and caregivers play an indispensable role in setting goals for counselling and supporting children in achieving these goals outside of sessions. Sessions to discuss parenting challenges and strategies are often beneficial and encouraged.
Fees and Payment
What does counselling cost? What types of payment are accepted?
Each standard 50-minute session is $150 (GST excluded). We accept credit cards and Interac e-Transfer. Our therapist, Brittany Jacob, is a Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. You may be eligible for full or partial reimbursement through your extended health insurance. Please check with your employer or insurance company to confirm. Our fees are in accordance with the recommended fee schedule guidelines of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.
We also offer reduced-cost sessions through our student counselling program.
LOCATION
Paragon Health offers counselling sessions through Phone and Video. We recommended that you have a secure internet connection and a private space to talk.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.