FAQ

The first step to improved mental well-being is to contact E-Chat by phone or email. From there, a counselling therapist will contact you for a complimentary 20 minute phone call to see what you are looking for and how E-Chat can be helpful to you. In that time, the counsellor will inquire about your reasons for counselling, find out a bit about you and your background and determine whether working together would be beneficial to you. This also gives you, the client, the opportunity to ask questions and see if the counsellor is a good fit. Studies show that the relationship between therapist and client (also known as the therapeutic relationship or therapeutic alliance) is “ a reliable predictor of positive clinical outcome independent of the variety of psychotherapy approaches and outcome measures” (Ardito & Rabellino, 2011, p.1), therefore it is imperative that the client feels comfortable with the counsellor and vice versa.

Following the complimentary consultation, if the client wants to proceed, he or she can book an initial appointment with the counsellor.

The intake form asks for information such as name, address, contact information, and emergency contacts. It also explains the policies of the office so the client knows what to expect prior to the first session.

In the first session, the counsellor will review informed consent, explain confidentiality and gather information about the client’s background. While it may seem odd to review historical information, when the problem is happening right now, it helps the counsellor and client make connections and set goals for therapy.

From there, the client and psychotherapist proceed and adjust the goals and plan as needed. Sometimes clients may have some “homework” to complete between sessions to keep them on track, to learn more about themselves and to practice newly acquired skills.

In the past, seeing a counsellor was stigmatized. People are now seeing therapists as part of general wellness, much the same as seeing the dentist or the eye doctor. Working with a Mental Health professional regularly can help improve both mental and physical health and well-being.

People also see psychotherapists when there is an identifiable problem such as anxiety, stress, depression, relationship problems or other mental health concerns. In these cases, counsellors can help the person identify the problems and work to develop strategies to overcome the issues. Therapists can also provide education and a safe place to explore thoughts and feelings that the person may not feel comfortable sharing with friends or family.

E-Chat Counselling is dedicated to supporting clients to maintain good mental health as well as helping them through difficult times. Our approaches are client-centered and include Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Solution-Focused therapy (SFT), Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment therapy (ACT) along with other modalities to help our clients overcome obstacles to their happiness and well-being. We want our clients to have the tools, skills and strategies to help them maintain mental health.

The BC Medical Services Plan does not cover the cost of counselling, however, some extended benefits plans include counselling services only if provided by people holding certain designations, such as RCC, RSW. Please check your extended health plan for further information.

Tara has been working with seniors for over 30 years. She understands the challenges that the elderly and their loved ones face when physical and/or cognitive abilities start to decline. Tara can help you prepare for the future to insure a smoother transition to whatever the next step is for your family member.

RCC – Registered Clinical Counsellor – counsellor has completed a Master’s degree along with 100 hours of clinical supervision, specific course work and is registered with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

RSW – Registered Social Worker – an individual who has completed either a Bachelor or Master’s degree and is registered with the BC College of Social Workers.

RCSW – Registered Clinical Social Worker – an individual with a Master’s degree or Doctoral degree in Social Work with over 3000 hours of post Master’s clinical supervision and is registered with the BC College of Social Workers.

RMFT – Registered Marriage and Family Therapist – therapist has completed a Master’s degree and has 1000 hours of clinical supervision.

CCC – Canadian Certified Counsellor – counsellors hold a Master’s degree in counselling.

CPA – Certified Professional Counsellor – individual has 450 hours of education in counselling and has completed a 90 hour practicum.

R.Psych – Registered Psychologist – psychologist has a doctoral degree in Psychology and is registered with the College of Psychologists of British Columbia.

Since counselling is an unregulated profession in BC, it’s important that clients understand the differences in qualifications of their counsellor. Clients should not hesitate to ask questions about their counsellor’s education, experience and governing body to insure they’re working with a professional.