Have Questions About Starting Therapy?

Starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions, from where to begin, to what to expect in your first session. I offer counselling in Vancouver (at two office locations) and in Port Moody, as well as secure online therapy across B.C. Whether you’re exploring individual or couples counselling, or looking for neuro-affirming therapy that meets you where you are, this page answers common questions about booking, fees, confidentiality, and what our work together might look like.

Frequently Asked Questions

About My Practice

Q: Where do you offer counselling sessions?
I offer therapy in person, and online across British Columbia. In-person sessions are available at two Vancouver offices (UBC & Kitsilano) and in Port Moody. I am an associate counsellor at the Vancouver UBC and Port Moody locations, and own my practice in Kitsilano (Autumn Insights Counselling).

Q: What does it mean that you work as an associate counsellor?
I’m a fully qualified Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). At two locations, I work as an associate counsellor, which means I practice independently but within another established clinic. These practices provide office space, marketing, and administrative and clinical supports, while I maintain my own professional standards, confidentiality, and clinical approach. I have the privilege to work as an associate at these established practices: Ali Margulius Counselling in Vancouver and Tannis Price Counselling in Port Moody.

Q: Do you offer online therapy in BC?
Yes. Many clients choose online counselling for flexibility and privacy. It’s a convenient way to access therapy from your home or office anywhere in British Columbia.

Q: Are your counselling fees the same at every location?
Session fees vary slightly between locations to align with each site’s policies. You’ll see the current rate for each site on the booking page when scheduling.

Q: How long are therapy sessions?
Sessions are typically 50 minutes, allowing time for notes and transitions between appointments. Options for extended session appointments are also possible, which can be 75 minutes.

Working Together

Q: What types of therapy do you offer?
I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, stress, burnout, relationship issues, addictive behaviour patterns, and life transitions. I also offer neuro-affirming therapy for ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent experiences.

Q: What is neuro-affirming counselling?
Neuro-affirming counselling recognizes and supports neurological differences rather than trying to “fix” them. It focuses on understanding your unique brain and building strategies that work for you.

Q: Do you provide counselling for addictions?
Yes. I support clients exploring addictive patterns or substance misuse that interfere with their goals or relationships. My practice isn’t suited for active dependency or withdrawal, but I can provide referrals if that’s needed.

Q: Do you offer couples or family counselling?
Yes. I provide relationship and couples therapy to support communication, rebuild trust, and navigate change. Couples sessions are 50 minutes, with fees that differ slightly from individual therapy. Family sessions are almost always extended-length session due to the complexity and amount of participants.

Q: How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?
Finding the right fit is essential and the therapeutic relationship can often determine the successful outcome of treatment. I offer a free consultation call to discuss what you’re looking for and answer questions before you commit to a session.

Getting Started

Q: How do I start therapy?
You can book directly through my secure online booking system. Choose your preferred location in Vancouver (UBC or Kitsilano) or Port Moody, or select an online option depending which days of the week work for your availability (see the Locations tab to check out which days I work at certain offices). If you’re unsure, reach out and I can help you decide what’s best.

Q: What can I expect in my first therapy session?
The first session focuses on understanding what brings you to therapy, clarifying your goals, and starting to build a therapeutic direction together. You don’t need to prepare anything — just come as you are.

Q: How often should I come to therapy?
Many clients start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions, then adjust as progress continues. We’ll find a pace that fits your goals and schedule.

Q: Do you offer short-term or long-term therapy?
Both. Some clients prefer goal-focused short-term therapy, while others choose longer-term work for deeper personal growth. We’ll tailor it to your needs.

Fees, Insurance & Policies

Q: What are your counselling rates?
My fees align with BCACC recommendations. Current rates are listed on my booking page and vary slightly by location and service type (individual or couples).

Q: Are counselling sessions covered by insurance?
Most extended health plans cover counselling with a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Check your plan to confirm your coverage and reimbursement process.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
Payments are accepted by e-transfer or credit card, depending on the office location. Receipts are provided after each session for insurance or personal records.

Q: What is your cancellation policy?
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule a session. Late cancellations or missed sessions are charged the full fee.

Other Common Questions

Q: How can therapy help me?
Therapy can help you understand yourself more deeply, process emotions, and learn tools to handle life’s challenges. Many clients come to explore relationships, stress, or patterns they want to shift.

Q: Is therapy confidential?
Yes. Counselling sessions are confidential and private, with a few legal exceptions that will be explained during the intake process.

Q: What if your policies or rates change?
Any updates, such as a policy changes or adjusted fees, will be clearly communicated and updated on my website and booking page.