Counselling FAQ — What to Expect

Starting counselling can bring up a lot of questions — and that’s completely normal. Below, I’ve answered some of the most common questions about therapy, online sessions, confidentiality, and what to expect. My hope is that this helps you feel informed and supported as you decide what’s right for you.

Ready to start? Let's connect.

Getting Started

  • You can book a session by using the contact form on my contact page or by emailing me at katie@silverliningscounselling.ca. Once you reach out, I’ll get back to you within 2 business days to arrange a time that works for you.

  • There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. Some people come for a few sessions to work through a specific concern, while others benefit from ongoing support. We’ll collaborate to find what feels right for you.

  • The relationship between you and your counsellor is one of the most important parts of therapy. During the first session, we’ll get a sense of whether my approach feels comfortable and supportive for you. If at any point you feel another approach may serve you better, I can offer referrals to trusted colleagues.

  • I ask for two full business days notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. Sessions cancelled with less than two full business days notice will be charged the full fee.

  • I don’t currently offer free consultations. Instead, we use our first session to get to know each other, discuss what brings you to counselling, and explore whether we feel like a good fit.

  • No referral is needed. You can book a counselling session directly, whether you’ve been in therapy before or this is your first time.

Online Counselling

  • Yes! I provide secure, encrypted online counselling sessions for anyone living in British Columbia and in unregulated provinces and territories across Canada. This can be a great option if you prefer the flexibility and comfort of talking from home.

  • I’ll send you a secure video link before our session. All you need is a private space, a stable internet connection, and a device with a camera and microphone.

  • For many people, yes. Online sessions can be just as effective and allow for more flexibility and comfort. Together, we’ll explore what works best for you.

  • As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BCACC, I’m able to provide counselling to clients who reside in British Columbia and in unregulated provinces and territories in Canada. Appointments are offered in Pacific Time.

  • As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BCACC, I’m able to provide counselling to clients who reside in British Columbia and in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Newfoundland & Labrador, Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories.

    Appointments are offered in Pacific Time.

Fees & Insurance

  • My fees are $170 per 50-minute individual session. You can find more details on my services page.

  • Many extended health benefit plans cover sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in BC. I recommend checking with your provider to confirm coverage. I provide detailed receipts so you can submit them for reimbursement.

  • I don’t offer direct billing at this time, but I’ll provide a detailed counselling receipt after each session. Many extended health insurance plans cover counselling with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), so you can submit your receipt to your provider for potential reimbursement.

  • Payments can be made by e-transfer or credit card at the time of the session.

  • Yes. I am a registered provider with the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP). If you’ve been approved, CVAP will cover part of your session fee, and you will be responsible for paying the remainder.

    I require confirmation of funding before I can bill CVAP directly.

  • Absolutely. Everything you share in counselling is kept confidential, with a few rare exceptions required by law (such as immediate risk of harm to yourself or others). We’ll review confidentiality fully in your first session.

  • I use a secure, encrypted video platform designed for counselling, which keeps your information safe and confidential.

  • I keep minimal, secure notes to help guide our work together. These are stored safely and are not shared without your consent, unless required by law.

Confidentiality & Privacy

My Approach

  • Your first session is a chance for us to get to know each other and explore what’s bringing you to counselling. We’ll talk about your goals, answer your questions, and decide together how we’d like to work moving forward.

  • I provide individual counselling for adults and youth (14+), both in-person in South Surrey and online across BC. I support clients with a range of concerns, including:

    • Anxiety

    • Depression

    • Trauma

    • Grief and loss

    • Life transitions

    • 2SLGBTQIA+ identity and affirmation

    • Burnout

    • Self-esteem and boundaries

    • Prenatal and postpartum

  • My approach is gentle, collaborative, and client-centred. I integrate evidence-informed practices. Sessions move at your pace, guided by your priorities and experiences.

Practical Details

  • I provide in-person counselling in South Surrey, BC and online counselling across British Columbia.

  • Standard sessions are 50 minutes.

  • At this time, I work with individuals only — adults and youth ages 14+.

  • Yes, I work with youth aged 14 and older. I create a safe, supportive space where youth can explore their experiences and feelings.