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

Some people use the term Post-Concussion Syndrome (or PCS) to describe the persistence of concussion symptoms beyond the typical course of recovery. This is outdated language and instead is now referred to as persistent symptoms of concussion or due to a concussion.

This allows us to look at concussion as a unique, individualized experience as symptoms and recovery is different for everyone. The term syndrome implies that a host of symptoms applies to everyone experiencing concussion and can see people as the same. Treatment needs to be individualized for each person targeting each symptom for best results.

Persistent symptoms can seriously impact personal and professional life, interfere with family life, as well as the ability to focus, communicate, and be effective at work or school. With proper support and education, people can recover from concussion, even months and years down the road.

https://concussionfoundation.ca/

Question 6

Is PCS Normal?

Accepted Answer

Persistent symptoms due to a concussion is relatively common. Estimates of people who will have a more difficult recovery and experience persistent symptoms vary. Estimates across age groups and populations range from 5-30%. While the majority of people struggle to recover in a typical fashion (within 3 months), it is important for people with persistent symptoms to know they are not alone.

There is an abundance of support for people who are experiencing persistent symptoms. It is important to find people who have experience in this field as there is unfortunately a lot of misinformation or old information out there. It is an ever changing field and important to find someone who can provide up to date, evidence-based care

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.Direct billing for Pacific Blue Cross is available.

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 located in the Tudor Village, with free abundant parking. There is parking lot in the front of the main building (clock tower) and if that is full, there is a back parking lot (also off Summit) that has many stalls. There is a transit stop right out front of Tudor Village.

778.586.5712 | admin@robinsnestcounselling.com

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