The length of treatment will vary according to the nature of your difficulties and can range from four sessions to more than a year. After several sessions we will be able to make a more accurate assessment of your needs and can then decide on a treatment approach that makes the most sense to both of us.

Therapy can be difficult at times and sometimes it will seem that you are feeling worse instead of better. This is normal, but not permanent.

You have the right to the confidentiality of your therapy. I am bound not to release any information to anyone without your written permission, which you can revoke at any time. The main exceptions to this confidentiality are disclosures that you are about to commit a crime, are involved in child or dependent adult abuse, are in imminent danger to yourself or others or are unable to meet your own basic needs in taking care of yourself. The courts also have a right to subpoena any records for any legal proceedings you might be a part of.

I also consult with other clinicians regarding my clients in order to get a second opinion and provided the best therapy possible. I will not use your name when doing so.

I generally keep very few notes and only write down what you tell me, the treatment plan that we decide together, and other ideas that I may have which might be helpful to you. As a member of the BCACC I am responsible for compliance with the Personal Information Protection Act.

If at any time you feel that you are not making progress with me please let me know and I will be happy to give you several referrals for other therapists. You also have the right to ask me about my therapeutic approach and if you believe I have engaged in unethical or unprofessional conduct you have the right to report your concerns to my professional association at 1-800-909-6303. You have the right to refuse any suggestions I may make and may cease treatment at any time.

If you need to cancel an appointment, please let me know at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time. This does not include Sundays – if you have a Monday appointment you will need to cancel on Saturday at the latest.

You will be charged the full session fee if you miss, reschedule or cancel your appointment with less than 24 hours notice.

Your extended health benefits may cover the cost of counselling with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). You will need to consult with your insurance provider to get the details.

I do work with ICBC claims.

Payment is required before your session.

A credit card is required to book your session, though you will not be charged until the day of your appointment. If you prefer to pay by e-transfer, cash or cheque, you will still need to input your credit card number to secure you session, but your card will not be charged.

If paying by e-transfer please set it up before we meet to: joywork@telus.net.