Frequently Asked Questions

How can counselling help?

Counselling can increase your ability to think clearly and cope with your problems. It can provide you with information and thinking that you may not have. It can help you to manage your reactions and to appreciate a different perspective. Counselling can teach you how to have greater control in your own life.

Do Oak counsellors all follow the same counselling methods?

No. Our counsellors follow basic accepted concepts of counselling but counsellors tend to specialize in specific approaches.

Will the counsellor be able to help me?

You will need to answer this question yourself when you meet with a counsellor and discuss your concerns.

Will the counsellor accept me for who I am?

Yes, our counsellors are trained professionals with a wide range of experience working with people from all walks of life and all cultures represented in the Metro Vancouver area.

How confidential is the client counsellor relationship?

Oak Counsellors abide by the Code of ethics published by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors & the Canadian Counselling Association. Confidentiality is a very important principle in counselling.

How much experience and training do the counsellors have?

Our counsellors have any where from 2 to 25 years experience. All our counsellors have a Master’s degree in counselling or related discipline and ongoing professional development. They participate in required clinical supervision as well.

Does the counsellor specialize in any particular problem?

Most counsellors have experience in a range of issues and do not deal exclusively with one type of problem. Their training and experience enable them to help the client address a variety of problems or symptoms.

How do I know whether counselling is helping me?

You will be the best judge of this and your counsellor will help you assess whether or not you are making progress.

How do I choose a counsellor?

There are three things to consider. Is the counsellor qualified? Does the counsellor have a counselling approach that makes sense to you? Is the counsellor someone you can talk to?

Who determines the duration of counselling?

You determine the beginning, duration and end of counselling.

Is there work I have to do outside the counselling sessions?

This depends entirely on you. Any work you are willing to do will enhance the effect of the therapy.

We need relationship Counselling but my partner does not want to come. So what’s the use?

Usually if one person in a couple or a family seeks counselling their life improves and often it helps improve the relationship with the others.

Do you have marriage and family counselling?

Yes. We have some counsellors who specialize in this area.

Do you have group therapy?

We occasionally offer group therapy.

Do you work with children?

No. We work with families and with parents to help them in their relationships with their children.

Do you do religious or Christian counselling?

No, not specifically. We are trained to help people work on their issues through their own beliefs whatever they may be. Our counsellors reflect the multiculturalism of Vancouver.

I have tried different types of therapy. It works for a while, then I revert to old patterns. What do you offer that is different?

Our counsellors come from a variety of backgrounds and have differing skill sets. You can discuss your concerns with the Director prior to arranging an appointment.

What does counselling cost?

Our counselling fees are based on a sliding scale related to gross household income and family size. The fees range from $10 to $65 a session. Fees are waived for individuals in receipt of Income Assistance and Provincial Disability Pension. Fees can also be negotiated with the Director. The fee will be set prior to your first appointment.

Do I need a Physician’s referral?

No. Just contact us to discuss your situation and make an appointment.

Does Extended Health Insurance or Employee Assistance Programme cover fees?

That depends on the rules and regulations of your plan. Check with your plan provider.

Are evening and weekend appointments available?

We have evening appointments but no weekend appointments.

I have tried different types of therapy. It works for a while, then I revert to old patterns. What do you offer that is different?

Our counsellors come from a variety of backgrounds and have differing skill sets. You can discuss your concerns with the coordinator prior to arranging an appointment.