Question 1

What should I expect out of my first counselling session? How do I prepare?

Accepted Answer

There is no need to prepare for your first session. If you have an in-person
appointment at our office, there is a waiting room where you can sit comfortably until
your session is scheduled to being. The counsellor will invite you into the counselling
office at your scheduled time. If you have a virtual appointment, you will be sent a
link to the online counselling video application in advance. If you have any
difficulties accessing the video application, you can call the office (778-586-5712) at
the start of your appointment to access assistance.
At the beginning of your first session your counsellor will review the counselling
process and address any questions or concerns you may have. Your counsellor will
collaborate with you to determine goals for counselling and ensure your therapy
sessions are tailored to your specific needs.

Question 2

What is informed consent and what if I want to withdraw my consent?

Accepted Answer

Your counsellor will provide you with sufficient information so you understand the
purposes, risks and benefits of the proposed counselling. The counsellor must also
allow you to ask questions and receive clear and relevant answers. You will be asked
to sign a written consent form, which will explain the counselling process, including
benefits and risks, confidentiality, and accessing records. You have the right to
withdraw consent for counselling at any time.

Under the Infants Act, a client under the age of 19 who understands the nature of the
therapy that he or she will receive can also give their consent and the child can give
consent without a parent or guardian’s knowledge or approval.

Question 3

Is my information kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes, both information that is written and shared orally during discussion is kept
confidential. Our digital records are encrypted and password protected. We also keep
written records locked securely as per BCACC guidelines and the Personal Protection
Act (PIPA). PIPA outlines the collection, use and disclosure of personal information.
These records may only be accessed by Mindset clinical staff. Information about you
will not be shared without your written consent. Additionally, we will not disclose
your affiliation with our practice without your written consent.

In certain situations we are legally required to share information without consent.
Below are the limits to confidentiality:

1. When there is threat of imminent harm to yourself or others

2. When a child is in need of protection from self or others we have a duty to report

3. When there is suspected elder, or dependent/vulnerable adult abuse or neglect

4. To comply with a court order/subpoena or child protection investigation

5. If you have a medical emergency in our office and you are unresponsive, we will contact emergency services on your behalf.

Question 4

What is the counselling process like?

Accepted Answer

When people engage in counselling, they are often ready for change in some aspect of their life. Counselling can lead to improved mental health by helping you better understand your thoughts, emotions and behaviours. It can also improve your relationships and how you relate to the world. Your counsellor will work collaboratively with you in a safe environment to help you set and achieve your goals.

Question 5

What is PCS?

Accepted Answer

Post-Concussion Syndrome, or PCS, is the persistence of concussion
symptoms beyond the normal course of recovery. The majority of concussion
symptoms will resolve within about two weeks, and with proper recovery almost
all dissipate within a month. In cases where symptoms last longer than one or
two months, doctors may diagnose Post-Concussion Syndrome. Patients with
PCS can experience concussion-like symptoms at rest or in response to too
much physical or cognitive activity, often forcing them to withdraw from their
usual physical, professional, and social lives. . In adults, PCS can seriously
impact a patients’ personal and professional life, interfere with family life, as
well as the ability to focus, communicate, and be effective at work.

PCS Resources — Concussio n Legacy Foundation Canada(https://www.concussionfoundation.ca/resources/pcs-resources)
(concussionfoundation.ca)(https://www.concussionfoundation.ca/resources/pcs-resources)

Question 6

Is PCS Normal?

Accepted Answer

Post-concussion syndrome is a relatively common complication of concussion
recovery. In high school athletes diagnosed with concussion, researchers have
estimated approximately 10% will develop PCS, and other estimates of other
age groups and populations range from 5 to 30%. While most patients will not
suffer from PCS, it is important for PCS sufferers to know they are not alone.

Question 7

Is your office accessible for people with mobility issues?

Accepted Answer

There is an elevator for accessibility to the counselling office;
unfortunately the bathrooms on the floor are only accessible by a few stairs

Question 8

How do I pay for services?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due prior to each session and can be made through Visa, 
MasterCard, E-Transfer, Cash, or Debit.

Question 9

Does my extended health insurance/plan cover services?

Accepted Answer

Many extended health plans cover the cost of counselling with a Registered Clinical Counsellor to a maximum amount per year. It is your responsibility to look into the specific allowances of your plan. You will be able to submit your receipts to your plan for reimbursement as allowed.

Question 10

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We require 24 hours notice if you must cancel a session. You will be charged for your session if less than 24 hours notice is provided. Group sessions are charged as a package and not refundable based on attendance.

Question 11

What happens if I’m running late for an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You will be charged the full amount for the time you have scheduled. Late arrivals
will be able to proceed with a shortened appointment if 30 minutes of service or
longer can be accommodated in the time remaining. Please call us immediately if you
are running late to discuss your options; there may be an opportunity to adjust the start
time of your session as bookings allow.

Question 12

What are my parking options?

Accepted Answer

Robin’s Nest is centrally located right across from City Hall on 235 1 St Avenue on the 9 th floor. There is street parking on adjacent Victoria/Seymour St, or alternatively at Riverside Park (Uji Way in front of the pickleball/tennis courts-free, or a paid parkade on Lorne St just under the train overpass), which is a short few min walk to the building on flat ground. There is a transit stop at Seymour & 1 st Ave.

778.586.5712 | admin@robinsnestcounselling.com

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