Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started
What is the first step to begin counselling?
Your journey begins with a free 15-minute consultation where we'll discuss your needs, goals, and determine if we're a good fit. This conversation also allows us to explore session fees and scheduling options that work for your situation. You can book through my site or email me at jcmindscience@outlook.com
Who do you work with?
I provide individual counselling sessions for children, teens, and adults. I work with clients dealing with grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, family and relationship concerns, school struggles, parenting difficulties, life transitions, and conditions like ADHD, BPD, and OCD.
Do you offer in-person sessions?
I do offer in-person in Stettler, Alberta, on Thursdays at the 4803 Collective behind OK Tire. 4803 44 Avenue
Sessions & Scheduling
How long are sessions and how much do they cost?
Sessions are 50 minutes long. My standard rate is $125 per session (until September 30th), but I offer sliding scale fees ranging from $50-$125 based on your individual needs and circumstances. We'll discuss what works best for your situation during your free consultation.
How flexible is scheduling?
I offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. We'll work together to find session times that fit your schedule and lifestyle.
How do virtual sessions work?
Sessions are conducted through secure, confidential video platforms that protect your privacy. You'll need a private space, a reliable internet connection, and a device with video capability. I'll provide all the technical details during our consultation.
Working with Children & Teens
What's the process for child and teen counselling?
When working with children and teens, I begin with a parent intake session to understand your child's needs and your family's goals. This collaborative approach ensures we're all working together to support your child's growth and healing.
Will parents be involved in the process?
Yes, I take a collaborative approach with families. Occasionally, family sessions may be recommended as part of supporting your child's growth. We'll discuss the level of parent involvement that's most beneficial for your child.
What age children do you work with?
I work with children, teens, and adults. The specific age ranges can be discussed during your consultation to ensure I'm the right fit for your child's developmental needs.
Therapeutic Approach
What therapeutic methods do you use?
I draw from various evidence-based approaches, including attachment theory, DBT, parts work, coherence therapy, and polyvagal theory. I create a personalised approach that honours both your past patterns and your growth potential, tailored to your unique story and needs.
What makes your approach different?
I believe that what feels like a "problem" today was likely a solution that helped you survive something difficult. We'll explore why your mind developed these patterns and what they were protecting you from, then use these insights to build better tools and forge a new path forward.
Do you focus on just talking, or do you teach practical skills?
While we'll explore your patterns and story, we'll also focus on building practical skills you can use every day. I believe real change requires movement, not just understanding, so sessions combine insight with actionable tools.
Practical Information
What areas do you serve?
I provide virtual counselling services to clients in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. In person, I offer sessions are available in Stettler,AB.
Are you a registered counsellor?
Yes, I'm a Registered Psychotherapist (qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, a Counselling Therapist with the Alberta Counselling Therapists Association and a Canadian Certified Counsellor by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. I hold a BSc and a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology.
What if I'm in crisis?
Counselling services are not a substitute for medical or psychiatric care and are not a crisis service. If you're experiencing a crisis or medical emergency, please contact your local emergency services, call 911, or call or text 988 (suicide crisis line).
How do I pay for sessions?
We'll discuss payment options during your consultation. I accept various payment methods to make the process as convenient as possible for you.
About the Therapeutic Process
How long does therapy typically take?
The length of therapy varies greatly depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people benefit from short-term focused work, while others find longer-term therapy helpful. We'll regularly check in about your progress and adjust our approach as needed.
What can I expect from our work together?
Together, we'll explore what's been holding you back and develop tools to move you forward on your path. You can expect a compassionate, curious approach that helps you understand your patterns while building practical skills for change.
How do I know if you're the right therapist for me?
The free 15-minute consultation is designed to help us both determine if we're a good fit. I believe the therapeutic relationship is crucial to successful outcomes, so it's important that you feel comfortable and understood.
Contact & Next Steps
How do I schedule my free consultation?
You can reach me at jcmindscience@outlook.com to schedule your free 15-minute consultation. This is the perfect opportunity to ask any additional questions and see if we're a good match.
What should I prepare for our first conversation?
Come as you are! Think about what brought you to seek counselling and what you hope to achieve. There's no need to prepare extensively – our conversation will naturally guide us toward understanding your needs.
Ready to take the next step? Contact me at jcmindscience@outlook.com to schedule your free consultation. New paths are made by walking, not wishing – let's start building yours together.