|
To
help give you a better idea of what counselling is all about,
I've put together a few of the questions that I hear most often.
We can talk about any others that you have when we
speak together.
|
"How
long have you been counselling people?"
I
have been working with people for over 30 years, as a teacher, a business
manager, a mother, and now as a counsellor. My focus has always been
on helping people find their own solutions to their individual issues
and concerns. Advice-giving is not my forté.
These
skills have been enhanced through my Masters of Social Work studies
at the University of Toronto. I have trained practically at Women's
College Hospital and at the University of Toronto's Psychiatric Services,
dealing with clients experiencing life crises, relationship distresses,
anxiety or depression.
"How
long does counselling usually last?"
Short-term
counselling typically involves four to eight weekly sessions, lasting
an hour each, and often deals with issues related to an immediate crisis
which is causing stress and discomfort.
Long-term
counselling may last from several weeks to months, once a week, with
each session lasting one hour. Client's issues often involve recurring
problems, such as depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, low
self-esteem, substance abuse, or unresolved stress.
"I'm
concerned about privacy. Should I be?"
All
discussions between us will be kept in strict confidence, with the exception
of the revelation of harm having been done, or about to be done, to
others. This is a legal requirement. Also, for counselling to be effective
it is imperative that I be made fully aware of all medication, alcohol
or street drugs which you may be using.
"Is
counselling affordable?"
The
cost for counselling is based on each client's particular needs. For
a personal quote, please contact me at (613) 476-0281 (Prince Edward
County, Ontario). Counselling is not covered by OHIP, although some
extended health benefit plans through employers cover a portion of the
fee. A limited number of clients are accepted on a sliding payment scale.
"When
do you meet with clients?"
Appointments
are usually scheduled during regular business hours, with a limited
number of evening or early-morning appointments available. Appointments
are usually available within one week's time. E-Counselling
is also an option for those clients who feel more comfortable using
e-mail, telephone or ICQ.
"Do
you also counsel couples?"
Yes.
Often couples experiencing difficulties can benefit from a fresh, unbiased
perspective on the issues they are struggling with. Sometimes new ways
of talking about things can be introduced and the couple moves forward
effectively on their own. At other times, longer-term work is appropriate
to re-build trust which has been violated or re-work communication patterns
which have become ingrained.
"What
exactly is mediation?"
When
a couple has decided that they no longer wish to live together, mediation
helps them work out their post-separation relationship. When there are
children involved, mediation helps the parents resolve their own issues
so that the children are least traumatized by this upheaval in their
lives. Mediation is typically substantially less expensive than litigation.
|