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Snake Plant

How to mitigate the cost of counselling 

Choose to thrive is committed to providing accessible funding. 

Most extended benefits now cover the cost of counselling. If you've been involved in a car or vehicle accident, experienced victimization in a crime, have access to FNHA funds, or are linked to an EAP through your workplace, there is a possibility that your sessions could be partially or fully covered.

We also offer sliding scale options. 

  • ICBC
    If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident and have an open claim with ICBC, you may have counselling coverage available to you. At present, anyone who has been in an accident has up to 12 sessions within the first 12 weeks of their accident automatically approved. For those outside of that initial 12 weeks, we require confirmation from your ICBC adjuster for approval for sessions.
  • Sliding Scale
    Sliding scale is available to anyone who may be experiencing financial barriers. Proof of income is not required. This option qualifies only for individual and spiritual counselling. For more information, please get in touch.
  • First Nations Health Authority
    According to the FNHA website, benefits are available to those who are: - First Nations people with Indian status - A resident of British Columbia - Non-Status Individuals may be eligible if they or a family member are a former student of a Residential School or Day School, or are experiencing trauma or distress due to missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls in Canada. Individuals are not eligible for Health Benefits if they are already covered by another third-party health insurance provided by the Federal Government or by a First Nations organization as part of a funding agreement.
  • Extended Health Benefits
    Many employers offer access to group and extended health benefits that may cover counselling. Please review your personal benefits coverage to ensure you have funding specific to Registered Social Workers (with a Master’s degree). At present, we are not offering direct billing.
  • Crime Victim Assistance Program
    If you have been physically or emotionally hurt as a result of a violent crime, you may be entitled to financial assistance. Criteria: - An immediate family member was the victim of a crime within the last 12 months - An immediate family member was the victim of a crime more than 12 months in the past, but you could not reasonably have applied for assistance before now - You were the victim of a crime within the last 12 months - You were the victim of a crime more than 12 months in the past, but you could not reasonably have applied for assistance before now - You are under the age of 19 and have been the victim of any crime at any time - You were the victim of a sexual offence any time after July 1, 1972 For more information on CVAP, click here
  • Do you offer direct billing?
    Unfortunately, I’m not able to offer direct billing at this time. You will need to pay for sessions at our appointment time and seek reimbursement from your insurance company with the invoice I provide you after payment is received. I cannot issue receipts for sessions that were not attended.
  • How do I book and manage my appointments?
    You can book additional appointments, reschedule, or cancel appointments through email or text.
  • Where we meet?
    All counselling sessions will take place on Teams at the unique link I email to you.
  • How many sessions will it take and how often should I come?
    The duration and frequency of our sessions depend on your specific objectives and preferences. Initially, many individuals opt for more frequent sessions to establish momentum and assess the compatibility with their counselor. The trajectory may then shift to a less frequent schedule. The duration of our work together varies based on the nature of your concerns, with some issues resolving quickly while others may require more extended exploration. During our initial sessions, we can collaboratively determine the optimal number and frequency of sessions that align with your goals. You can decide whether 50min are sufficient or if you would benefit from a longer session.
  • What happens in the first session?
    In our initial session, we'll take a moment to go over the informed consent, address any questions you may have, and obtain your verbal consent. From there, the direction of our conversation is entirely in your hands. I value understanding more about your reasons for seeking counseling and working together to define your goals, even if they're not fully formed yet.
  • How to become a client?
    You can either book an Initial Counselling Session, or book a Free Telephone Consultation. To Book a Counselling Session If you are ready to book a session, you can get in touch through email or book here. Once you get in touch, you will be emailed important information and forms to be signed. Before each session you will receive a Teams invite. There is no need to download any app, simply accept the Teams invite and join the session. Book a Free Telephone Consultation for New Clients If you have further questions for me, or want to tell me more about what you’re hoping to work on before meeting for an appointment you can request a 15 minute Free Telephone Consultation. After you request a consultation, I will call you at the phone number provided.
  • Fees and Payment
    The fee depends on the duration and type of the session. There are many funding options to mitigate the cost of counselling including sliding scale, extended benefits and third party insurance. Present fees are as follows: 50 minute Individual Counselling - $140+GST 80 minute Individual Counselling - $210+GST 50 minute Couples Counselling - $175+GST 80 minute Couples Counselling - $265+GST You can pay for appointments by e-transfer to katya@choose2thrive.ca. You will be emailed the receipt for session shortly after your payment is received.
  • Ending counselling?
    You have the autonomy to conclude counseling at any point. Frequently, as individuals make strides toward their goals, they discover that spacing out sessions allows them the opportunity to apply their newfound insights. As we progress, I'll regularly check in with you to assess how the current session frequency aligns with your needs. We can discuss the possibility of reducing session frequency or considering a pause or conclusion to counseling based on your evolving preferences and progress.
  • Do you offer relationship counselling for non-monogamous relationships?
    Certainly! I work with couples who practice various forms of openness in their relationships. Recognizing the uniqueness of each relationship, I understand that a one-size-fits-all approach may not resonate with everyone. I'm here to support you and your primary partner in fortifying your connection, providing the foundation for the openness that aligns with your relationship. If at any point you consider involving another partner in our therapy discussions, I'm open to exploring that possibility!
  • What is the difference between RSW, RCC, Psychologist and Psychiatrist?
    In BC, mental health services are provided by a range of professionals, each with different qualifications and areas of expertise. Registered Social Worker (RSW): Education: RSWs typically hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work (BSW or MSW). They are required to be registered with the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW). Services: RSWs provide counseling and support services to individuals, families, and groups. Their focus is on helping clients navigate social and environmental factors affecting their mental health. They tackle a broad spectrum of emotional and psychological issues, often specializing in areas such as relationship counselling, loss and grief, trauma, or anxiety. Registered Clinical Counselor (RCC): Education: RCCs have a Master's degree in counseling or a related field. They must be registered with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counselors (BCACC). Services: RCCs offer counseling and psychotherapy services to individuals, couples, and families. They address a wide range of emotional and psychological issues and often specialize in areas like relationship counseling, trauma, or addiction. Registered Psychologist: Education: Psychologists in British Columbia hold a doctoral degree in psychology (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and must be registered with the College of Psychologists of British Columbia (CPBC). Services: Psychologists provide comprehensive psychological assessments and evidence-based therapy for various mental health conditions. They can diagnose mental disorders and provide specialized treatment plans tailored to an individual's needs. Psychiatrist: Education: Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who undergo specialized training in psychiatry. They must be licensed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia. Services: Psychiatrists are medical professionals who can diagnose and treat mental health conditions. They have the authority to prescribe medication and provide a wide range of treatment modalities. They often work with individuals who have severe or complex mental health issues.
  • Do you offer sliding scale?
    I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots based on financial need. You’re welcome to ask about availability.
  • Will my insurance cover our sessions?
    While counselling services are not currently covered by the Medical Services Plan, many extended health insurance agencies will cover counselling services. Please check with your insurance provider to see if they cover seeing a Registered Social Worker.
  • What is your cancellation policy?
    Clients will be charged the full session fee for all missed sessions, and sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours notice. If you arrive late for your appointment you are entitled to the remainder of your appointment time. I charge for late cancellations because your appointment time is reserved for you, and it can be difficult to fill your space short notice.
Autumn Vibes

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