Question 1

I'm not sure that counselling is for me can I ask you some questions about it?

Accepted Answer

Yes! I love questions :) You are welcome to email me questions at info@helenwhitehead.ca or arrange a free of charge 15 minute phone consultation so you can get a sense of what it might be like to work with me. You can also read an article I wrote about a first counselling sessions that might be helpful click here to read it. In my experience counselling can be helpful for everyone, there are different approaches and some of them may be more suited to you than others - that's something we can explore together to make sure we are moving in a direction you are fully comfortable with and that will be the most helpful for you.

Question 2

Is everything confidential between us?

Accepted Answer

With some legal exceptions, everything you say within the counselling session is kept absolutely confidential and I will not disclose any information to a third party without your written permission. 
There are, however, some exceptions to confidentiality:
1) If I suspect that a child or vulnerable adult is currently being abused or neglected or is at significant risk I am obliged to contact the Ministry of Children and Family Development to report this to them.
2) If you inform me that you are going to cause serious harm to yourself or another person I am obliged to take the necessary steps to prevent harm from occurring.
3) If a court order is made to release my records I am obliged to comply with this.
If you have any concerns or questions about this please don't hesitate to ask!

Question 3

What is a Registered Clinical Counsellor?

Accepted Answer

A Registered Clinical Counsellor has undergone years of training and the absolute minimum of a Master's degree in Counselling and is a member of the British Columbia Association for Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). 
It's important to ask questions and do your homework! Read more about why choosing an RCC is a good idea: https://bc-counsellors.org/find-a-counsellor/how-to-choose/

Question 4

What I want to talk about is difficult for me and I'm nervous - what should I do?

Accepted Answer

I understand how incredibly difficult it can be to talk about painful events, trauma, loss, hurt and confusion. I'm here for you and I will do all I can to ensure that I provide a safe and welcoming environment for you. Be assured that we can go at your own pace and I will never ask you to talk about something you are not ready for. The path to healing isn't always easy, but it's always worth it. 
If you want to talk about confusion about your gender identity or sexual orientation please be assured that I work with many gay, lesbian, bisexual, 2spirit, trans and gender diverse clients and all are welcome here :)

Question 5

Should I book an in-person session or an online therapy session?

Accepted Answer

Some people prefer an in-person setting and I accommodate this when I'm able to. My counselling office in North Vancouver is also convenient for folks in Burnaby, Vancouver and West Vancouver. I also now have an office in West Kelowna as I split my time between these beautiful places! Both offices are also accessible for anyone with any mobility concerns and there is free parking for clients. 
 
Due to COVID-19 many people have been trying online therapy and have found that they actually prefer it and find it more comfortable and more convenient to be at home. Online counselling is safe (I use an encrypted end to end service) and as long as you have privacy and wifi you can give it a try. I have found that many clients who started online therapy during the initial stages of the pandemic have decided to stick with it. Plus, virtual counselling beats the traffic!

Question 6

Do I have to be in North Vancouver or Kelowna to be a client?

Accepted Answer

No you don't. While I have many clients in North Vancouver and the Okanagan area, I have virtual therapy clients from all over BC! As long as you are located in British Columbia then we are able to work together, as the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors registration is good for the whole province.

Question 7

Can I claim this on my extended health insurance?

Accepted Answer

If you have coverage for Registered Clinical Counsellors (which most policies do) then yes absolutely! Check with your provider and let me know upon payment that you need a detailed receipt and I will send that to you so you are able to submit a claim. 
If you are a First Nations client then check your eligibility with the First Nations Health Authority as I am a registered provider of mental health services for them.

Helen Whitehead Counselling

North Vancouver West Kelowna

& Online Counselling throughout B.C.

Frequently Asked Counselling Questions