Frequently Asked Questions

1) How do I set up online counselling?

Industry standard tele-health software will be used. All you need is a computer or a phone along with an email address. The secure connection link will be emailed to you and you simply click on the link. You are likely to be asked to allow access to video camera and microphone. Once you open the link you may need to wait a couple minutes and you will be accepted into the session. Commonly the microphone and video may be off for which you will turn them on. That’s it and then your in.

2) I want to book a free consultation, How do I start?

You can click on the “schedule” button located on the bottom of each page to look for an open appointment space. If there is not a suitable time then I welcome you to email me at info@itsanewdawncounselling.com to set up a phone session at 778 684 9093. The initial consultation will be a low stress 15 minute chat where we will discuss what you are looking for and determine together if another session will be booked. As well, if you prefer you are very welcome to schedule a full counseling session through our online booking portal.

3) How do I pay for your service

Payments can be made directly by connecting to the payment page on this site which you will be given a password prior. This service connects to the common payment gateway called STRIPE which accepts most credit and debit cards. As well, I can accept payment through PAY PAL if you prefer. I will not have access to your private banking information nor will the tele-health service.

3) How is my confidentiality protected?

As a registered clinical counsellor in BC, Canada (#15384) I must uphold ethical and legal obligation. Confidentiality is a key piece of the process. It is an honor and a privilege to speak with you about your life and I take your privacy very seriously. Therefore, I am diligent to keep your personal information safe and practice due diligence throughout the entire process.

4) Do you accept insurance

I do not direct bill due to the extra paper work which is common practice for many therapists. However, you will be provided with a receipt for each session and some insurance companies may reimburse you. It will be up to you to contact your insurance company ahead of time directly to see if this is possible.

5) Which is better in-person or online counselling?

This can depend on who you speak with. The field has been gaining research confirming online therapy results to be similar to in-person therapy. However, it seems that it is a matter of preference for both the therapist and the client. If a client is not comfortable with technology this could make it cumbersome for some. Regardless, the technology has been improving making online platforms more user friendly even for the lesser computer literate audience.

6) What about phone counselling?

Similar to the previous question phone counselling has also gained considerable amounts of research and support. However, as a client, it could mean that sometimes statements are taken out of context. A practiced therapist will adapt their skill set to listening for voice tones and so forth. Regardless, some clients may even prefer the phone over video and even in-person.

7) When should online or phone counselling not be used?

• If you are having imminent plans of suicide or of harming someone else.

• If you are in a crisis situation, such as domestic violence or health issue trauma, immediate help should be called such as the law enforcement or an ambulance.

• If you are intoxicated by drugs or alcohol

• If it does not feel right for you or suit your particular life style.

• If it has been ordered by the court.

8) Will my insurance cover therapy?

Insurance companies may or may not cover online or phone therapy. It is up to you to check with them. If they do you can submit a receipt for reimbursement.

9) What are the benefits of Counselling?

• Gaining personal insights

• Learning new ways to cope with or solve problems

• Developing new skills

• Changing unwanted behavior.

10) what Are some common risks of counselling?

• Strong emotions or difficult memories could be evoked.

• Changes in relationships are possible as growth occurs.

• Others may not be supportive of your efforts.

11) What are the advantages of online or phone counselling?

• Can be an option in remote or rural areas that may not have local therapists

• Easy access for individuals who have physical or mental barriers of a regular office.

• It is convenient to have sessions from your home or on the go.

• For some people being seen by others in a counsellor’s office is too awkward for them. This medium can alleviate this stigma concern.

12) What are the Disadvantages of online or phone counselling?

• Online counselling make’s it more difficult for a therapist to interpret non-verbal body language and expressions. Similarly, phone counselling lacks the physical element.

• legal and ethical codes can vary for each community.

• it is not suitable for crisis situations. Being online or on the phone can be a barrier to a quick response.

• severe psychiatric conditions require a more direct approach.

• technology concerns regarding confidentiality. Even with encryption measures there can be some risk.

• technology may not always work properly

• Disclaimer: Online counselling is not suitable for crisis situations such as imminent suicide plans. If you are in BC Canada a 24 hour suicide hotline number is 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433). Crisisservicescanada.ca also has 24 hour crisis support line at 1-833-456-4566 . If you are in the United States the 24-hour National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 1 800 273 8255 and your call will be sent to a crisis center near you. As well, in Canada and the United States dial 911 for immediate help or visit your nearest hospital emergency location.