Open Space Counselling
Frequently Asked Questions
All of our therapists have a Masters degree in a psychology or counselling related discipline from an accredited university. Additionally, we have all done extensive professional development and training in specific therapeutic modalities. All of our counsellors are Registered Clinical Counsellors, registered with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors or Canadian Certified Counsellors, registered with the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association.
Yes, what we discuss in counselling is kept strictly confidential. However, there are three exceptions to this rule:
- If your therapist believes you are at imminent or serious risk to harm yourself or others.
- If your therapist believes a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of or is being abused.
- If we are officially subpoenaed in a court case.
Most people feel some relief as early as the first session, and will continue to experience gains as therapy progresses.
But also: the research tells us that more foundational and sustainable shifts in feelings, behaviours, relationships and self-worth takes a minimum of eight sessions. And if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression or trauma, most clients will require a minimum of 10-12 sessions.
You don’t need to make a hard commitment. You can start with one session and see how it goes. You and your therapist can monitor your progress and ensure that you come up with a plan that works for you.
When we start to reckon with the complexity of our relationships and explore what is bothering us, painful feelings may arise, which can be unfamiliar and anxiety provoking. This is normal, and even important for moving forward in an integrated manner. We make sure this process is safe and supportive.
When we explore the past in counselling, it is always in the service of present-day struggles. Most of the time, people seek out counselling because of current problems. If exploring your feelings and reactions to your present circumstances helps you move forward and feel better, exploration of the past might be minimal. However, when we are stuck in a state of escalated anxiety, low mood, or emotional reactivity, exploring past relationships and life events can help us make sense of current patterns.
Sometimes crises emerge that make the distance between sessions too difficult to weather without support. Between session phone calls will be prorated your counsellor’s fee by the minute, and are subject to your counsellor’s availability. We encourage emailing your counsellor only regarding availability and setting up sessions, rather than communicating sensitive information.
For security purposes, our building and the elevator are locked after 6pm, all day Sunday, and on stat holidays. If you have an appointment during that time, please wait outside the building or in the lobby.
We often do not answer the phone after hours, so please email your counsellor directly if you are running late. Their email is included in your appointment confirmation.
We see individuals, couples, and families of all different backgrounds, political affiliations, genders, and sexual orientations. Our counsellors are trained in therapy for all life stages, from children all the way through to seniors. We are feminist, antiracist, and LGBTQ+ allies.
Check out our team’s bios, and see whose experience, specialty areas, and ‘vibe’ seems to be the best fit for you. You will also need to ensure that their availability will work for you. If you are unsure of who to see, or would like us to match you with a counsellor best suited to your needs, fill out our Match with a Therapist form and we will help you find a match for your needs. Some of our counsellors offer free 20-minute consultations by phone or video so that you can determine if they are a good fit for you.
In the first session of counselling, your counsellor’s only agenda is to connect with you, and to understand you as accurately as possible. By the end of your first session, we will have a clearer sense of the nature of your current struggles. We will explore what you are hoping to get out of therapy and what internal changes you would like to see happen. You may have some questions for your counsellor as well about what you can expect, and we always welcome this.
At the first session, your counsellor will be able to clarify what the focus of your work could be, and establish with you what frequency of sessions will be most helpful.
The services of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors are covered by many extended health benefit plans, but please contact your service provider to inquire about your specific plan prior to booking any services, including free consultations. An official receipt will be provided after each session to be submitted for reimbursement. Clients are responsible for paying for session fees upfront.
Fees vary depending on which therapist you see and what type of service you are seeking (couples are charged at a slightly higher rate than individuals). For most counsellors, rates range from $175-$200 per 50-minute session.
YES! Open Space Counselling is pleased to offer direct billing services to most major insurance providers in Canada. When filling out your intake form after booking an appointment, there is a field to collect your insurance information.
Specific questions about direct billing can be directed to connect@openspacecounselling.ca.
We accept e-transfer or credit card payments. If paying by e-transfer, please send the e-transfer the day of your session.
We require at least 48 hours notice for appointment cancellation or rescheduling. You can use our online booking system to cancel or reschedule your appointment prior to 2 days before your session. Sessions with less than 48-hours notice are subject to be charged at the full session fee. There is no penalty for changing an in-person session to a virtual session, even at the last minute.