What happens during a counselling session?
During a counselling session, we’ll work together to explore your concerns, challenges, and goals in a safe and non-judgmental space. Sessions are 50 minutes long and tailored to your unique needs. We may use a variety of approaches, including solution-focused therapy, emotion-focused therapy, or EMDR, depending on what’s most helpful for you. I use a client-centred approach, which means that I have no agenda for our sessions and take the client’s lead.
What to Expect During Your First Counselling Session
Your first counselling session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin building a supportive, collaborative relationship. The session will be 50 minutes long and focused on creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you can share your concerns and goals.
We’ll start by discussing what brought you to counselling, any specific challenges you’re facing, and what you hope to achieve. I’ll ask questions to better understand your experiences, background, and priorities, but you’re always in control of what you choose to share.
This session is also a chance for you to ask questions about the counselling process, my approach, or anything else you’d like to know. Together, we’ll explore how we can work towards your goals and outline a plan tailored to your unique needs.
By the end of the session, you should have a clearer understanding of the counselling process and feel more confident about the next steps in your journey toward healing and growth.
How do I know if counselling is right for me?
Counselling can be beneficial for anyone seeking support with life’s challenges, whether you’re dealing with stress, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, or personal growth. If you’re unsure, I encourage you to reach out for an initial consultation to discuss your needs and explore whether counselling could be helpful for you.
How long will counselling take, and do I need to come every week?
The length of counselling varies depending on your individual needs, goals, and the challenges you’re working through. Some clients find short-term counselling helpful, focusing on a specific issue over a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing support over a longer period.
How often you attend sessions is also flexible. Weekly appointments are common at the beginning to build momentum and establish a strong foundation. However, the frequency can be adjusted based on your progress, schedule, and preferences. Together, we’ll create a plan that works best for you and supports your healing journey.
Do you offer virtual counselling?
Yes, I provide virtual counselling sessions that allow you to access support from the comfort of your home or any private location.
Do you offer in-person counselling sessions?
Yes, I offer in-person counselling sessions on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm. In-person sessions take place at 221-1024 Ridgeway Avenue in Coquitlam, BC, V3J 1S5. Please contact me directly at meikeparharcounselling@gmail.com to book an in-person session.
Do you work with ICBC clients?
Yes, I work with clients who have been involved in motor vehicle accidents and are seeking counselling as part of their recovery process. If you are an ICBC client, I can help you address issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges that may arise following an accident. I offer direct billing for ICBC clients, however, ICBC does not cover missed sessions or cancellations within 24 hours. Therefore, ICBC clients still need to have a credit card on file in case of those instances, for which they will be charged directly.
What is EMDR therapy, and how can it help me?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a therapeutic approach designed to help people process and heal from trauma or distressing life experiences. It involves guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help your brain reprocess painful memories in a way that reduces their emotional impact.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. This allows me to offer the time to another client. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged the full fee.
Do you do direct billing?
At this time, I do not offer direct billing services other than ICBC. Payments for sessions are required at the time of service, and I can provide receipts for insurance reimbursement if needed. Please check with your insurance provider to determine if they cover counselling services and how to submit receipts for reimbursement.
Do you offer a sliding scale for fees?
Yes, I offer a sliding scale to ensure counselling services are accessible to those who may need financial flexibility. If affordability is a concern, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly to discuss options and find a solution that works for you.
Are our sessions confidential?
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of the counselling process. What you share during our sessions will remain private, except in specific circumstances required by law, such as risks of harm to yourself or others. I’ll explain these exceptions during our first session to ensure you feel informed and secure.
Do you work with couples, families or young children?
At this time, my practice focuses on individual counselling for ages 14 and over. If you’re seeking couples or family therapy, I’d be happy to provide referrals to trusted professionals in the community.
Meike Parhar Counselling 