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.

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.

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.

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.

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/

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.