Q: Do you accept insurance?

Insurance plans directly billed: • Medavie Blue Cross. I provide receipts that you can submit to other eligible insurance plans for reimbursement. If you plan to use insurance to cover the cost of counselling, please confirm with your insurance provider before the first session whether they cover the services of Registered Counselling Therapists.

Question 1

What can I expect at the beginning of therapy?

Accepted Answer

At the start of therapy, our focus will be on creating a safe, collaborative space. In the initial session, we'll discuss your background, current concerns, and goals for therapy. This is an opportunity to ask questions and explore the therapeutic approach that best suits you. Together, we'll work towards understanding your challenges and developing a personalized treatment plan. The pace and direction of our therapeutic journey will be tailored to your comfort, ensuring a collaborative and empowering experience from the beginning.

Question 2

How do I know if you are a good fit for me?

Accepted Answer

During the initial sessions, pay attention to how comfortable you feel discussing your concerns and whether you sense a personal connection. Consider whether my approach, expertise, and communication style align with your preferences and goals. Lastly, be open in communicating your expectations and concerns and remember that finding the right therapist is a process. It's okay to explore different professionals until you discover the best fit for your unique needs and comfort level.

Question 3

How often should I attend therapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

I normally suggest new clients commit to at least three bi-weekly sessions, after which we'll collaboratively assess our progress and may adjust the frequency of sessions based on your needs and available resources.

While weekly and bi-weekly sessions are common at the beginning of therapy, as you move closer to achieving your goals, you may benefit from less frequent check-ins.

Question 4

How will I know if therapy is helping me?

Accepted Answer

Recognizing the effectiveness of therapy is subjective and varies for each individual. Positive signs may include a greater understanding of your thoughts and emotions, improved coping mechanisms, and enhanced communication skills. You might also notice positive shifts in your relationships, a reduction in symptoms, or an increased sense of empowerment and self-confidence. Regular check-ins and open communication between us will help assess progress. It's important to be patient and allow time for change. If, at any point, you feel the need to reassess goals or discuss concerns about progress, we can collaboratively adjust our approach to ensure therapy remains a valuable and impactful part of your personal growth journey.

Question 5

How long are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Individual session - 60 minutes
Couples counselling session - 60 minutes (or 90 minutes upon request)

Question 6

What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

Individual Counselling (in-person & virtual, 60 minutes) - $160
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Couples Therapy (in-person & virtual, 60 minutes) - $160
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Payment methods: e-transfer, credit card.
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On occasion, based on client's situation and my availability, I offer sliding scale fees and pro bono counselling. Contact me if you want to learn more about fees and payment options.

Question 7

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

Insurance plans directly billed:
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 • Medavie Blue Cross.
​
I provide receipts that you can submit to other eligible insurance plans for reimbursement.
​
If you plan to use insurance to cover the cost of counselling, please confirm with your insurance provider before the first session whether they cover the services of Registered Counselling Therapists.

Question 8

Can you recommend some resources?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can find a list of recommended readings, as well as video and audio links in the Resources (https://www.viriasovacounselling.com/helpful-links)page.

Question 9

I need help, but I can't afford your fees

Accepted Answer

Try reaching out to the following agencies who offer free mental health supports

Nova Scotia Mental Health and Addictions
https://mha.nshealth.ca/en(https://mha.nshealth.ca/en)
 • Intake line and resources for mental health and addictions programming through Nova Scotia Health​

Red Spruce Mental Health Centre
https://redspruce.org/home.html (https://redspruce.org/home.html)
 • Free counselling services (in-person & virtual) in the Annapolis Valley and beyond
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Couch of Hope
https://couchofhope.com(https://couchofhope.com/)
 • Free counselling services in Halifax, NS for people who don't have insurance and cannot afford to pay
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The People's Counselling Clinic 
http://thepeoplescounsellingclinic.ca/(http://thepeoplescounsellingclinic.ca/)
 • Free counselling services, including men's groups for survivors of sexualized violence

Question 10

What to do if I am in a crisis?

Accepted Answer

Call 911

Provincial Mental Health and Addictions Crisis Line: 1-888-429-8167
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Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868; Text CONNECT to 686868

Question 11

What are the ethical standards for counselling therapists?

Accepted Answer

The profession of counselling therapy is regulated by the ethical standards outlined in the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Both are available for free on the CCPA website.(https://www.ccpa-accp.ca/2020-code-of-ethics/)

Question 12

What if I have a complaint about a counselling therapist?

Accepted Answer

NSCCT registers and licenses counselling therapist and is mandated by legislation to ensure the public has access to a robust and objective Complaint and Professional Conduct process to investigate complaints against counselling therapists and impose discipline where appropriate. There is no fee for filing complaint with the College. For further information on the complaints process and to access the complaint form visit the NSCCT website.(https://nscct.ca/filing-complaint/)