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Counselling FAQ
Why do people seek counselling?
People come into counselling for many reasons. Some need to respond to unexpected changes in their lives, while others seek self-exploration and personal growth. When coping skills are overwhelmed by guilt, doubt, anxiety, or despair, counselling can help. counselling can provide support, problem-solving skills, and enhanced coping for issues such as depression, anxiety, lack of confidence, relationship troubles, unresolved childhood issues, bereavement, spiritual conflicts, stress management, body image issues, and creative blocks. People seeking psychocounselling are willing to take responsibility for their actions, work towards self-change and create greater awareness in their lives.
What can I expect in a counselling session?
During sessions you are expected to talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session lasts 50 minutes, but some people request longer sessions. Usually weekly sessions are best. Some people who are in crisis or extreme distress need more than one session per week, at least until the crisis passes. During the time between sessions it is beneficial to think about and process what was discussed. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the counselling sessions, such as reading a relevant book or keeping records. For counselling to "work," you must be an active participant, both in and outside of the counselling sessions.
What benefits can I expect from working with a counsellor?
A number of benefits are available from participating in psychocounselling. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. counselling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find counselling to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from counselling depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from counselling include:
- Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
- Developing skills for improving your relationships
- Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek counselling
- Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
- Managing anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
- Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you
- Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviors and develop new ones
- Discovering new ways to solve problems
- Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence
What if I don't know what my goals are for counselling?
If you aren't sure what your goals are for counselling, your first task is to figure that out. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of counselling your goals may change. However, establishing a direction for counselling will help you get the most out of the experience.
Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?
I am an in network provider for a number of insurance companies. There is a confusing array of insurance arrangements. The first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:
- Do I have mental health benefits?
- What is my deductible and has it been met?
- How many sessions per calendar year does my plan cover?
- How much do you pay for an out-of-network provider?
- Is there a limitation on how much you will pay per session?
- Is primary care physician approval required?
Is counselling confidential?
In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and a counsellor. Information is not disclosed without written permission. However, there are number of exceptions to this rule. Exceptions include:
- Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The counsellor is required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
- If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person/s. The counsellor must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
- If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The counsellor will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in insuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission in order to ensure their safety.
Who can do referrals to TLCounselling?
- Healthcare Professionals, Social Workers, Parole/Probation Officers
- Parents/Relatives, Community Workers/Resource Centres
- Self Referral - ABSOLUTELY! If you have the motivation to heal from past or present events and work on any other issue impacting your life, then you're ready to see Terri
Is treatment short or longterm?
All situations and each person dealing with them are different and unique, so this is something to be decided by you and your counsellor as treatment progresses. There is no minimum or maximum number of appointments (except in situations where treatment is terminated do to threats, acts of violence, destruction of property, or where mutual respect cannot be achieved).