Commonly Asked Questions
Do you offer sliding scale?
We offer limited spots at sliding scale. Please connect via email for further information.
We are approved to provide counselling services through the Crime Victims Assistance Program (CVAP).
We also provide a free grief group in collaboration with the Elk Valley Suicide Task Force that is biweekly in Fernie, BC. Further information can be found here.
Free Resources in Fernie
The Women’s Centre in Fernie BC also provides 12 no-cost counselling sessions to those who qualify. If affordability is a challenge please click this link to connect with the Fernie Women’s Centre to see if they are a fit and complete their intake process.
East Kootenay Addiction Services (EKASS) provides counselling assessment, treatment and referral services to children, youth and adults affected by their or someone else’s substance use concerns. Services are provided throughout the East Kootenay. Click here to self-refer.
Family counselling is offered through the Columbia Basin Family Society. Click here to learn more.
The Fellaship is an inclusive mental health and support group for men to eat, connect, and support one another. Drop in on Mondays (excluding holidays) from 6-8pm at Our Place:1592A 10th Ave, Fernie BC V0B1M0. For more information contact: fellashipmensgroup@gmail.com
Interior Health offers group and individual counselling support. You can learn more about what options may be available for you through self-referral or by talking to your family doctore
How does counselling work?
Counselling is a collaboration. We aren’t here to tell you what to do, or judge your choices. Instead we work with you to help you achieve change where you feel change is needed. You can go as deep into your story as you feel or keep focused on problem solving day-to-day stressors. While we will make suggestions and occasionally call out some contradictions (wiith love of course), ultimately, you are in the driver’s seat.
- We Work At Your Pace
- Respect Your Choices
- Focus On Your Strengths
- Support and affirm your gender and sexual orientation
- We will support the integration of cultural and spiritual practices into sessions
Are your services confidential?
Counselling is a confidential service. Everything you discuss with your counsellor is private. However, there are some limitations to confidentiality. In the following instances your counsellor may break confidentiality.
- If there is imminent risk of serious bodily harm (includes physical or psychological harm) to the client or anyone else, e.g. suicide, homicide.
- where disclosure is required under the Child and Family Services Act, 1990 for example, where the member has reasonable grounds to suspect that a child is in need of protection due to physical harm, neglect or sexual abuse by a person having charge of the child;
- where necessary for particular legal proceedings (e.g. when the member is subpoenaed);
- to facilitate an investigation or inspection if authorized by warrant or by any provincial or federal law (e.g. a criminal investigation against the member, his/her staff, or a client);
- for the purpose of contacting a relative, friend or potential substitute decision-maker of the individual, if the individual is injured, incapacitated or ill and unable to give consent personally.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can reschedule or cancel your appointments as your plans change. However, we ask that you provide 24 hours notice as a minimum. This will allow us to fill your spot with a client in need. If you provide less than 24 hours notice you will be charged for the session.
What kind of sessions do you provide?
- In person sessions are offered in Fernie
- Virtual Sessions
- Phone sessions
- Walking sessions
