Frequently asked questions

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Why would I need counselling?

Many clients seek counselling when they are in emotional distress or for extra support during major life transitions and challenges. And many clients seek counselling as a preventative self-care measure to achieve personal growth and/or to maintain wellness.

What are the benefits of counselling?

Counselling with Holly Yager, Clinical Counsellor at Well Woman Counselling Services can provide:

• A space and opportunity for you to explore any situations, relationships, behaviours, thoughts, and feelings which may be causing difficulty in your life
• A source of comfort and support during a crisis, a challenge, or a difficult time
• A deeper awareness and insight into yourself and others
• Better ways of understanding and coping with problems
• Smoother functioning at work and in relationships

What are the risks of counselling?

Counselling involves the close examination of difficult topics which may bring temporary discomfort. It is common to feel emotionally or physically tired after a session due to experiencing stronger than usual emotions. It may help to schedule some time after a session to be alone or doing something you enjoy to allow yourself time to process what was discussed. As you begin to make changes in yourself you may notice changes in your relationships which may require a time of adjustment for those around you.

What should I look for in a Counsellor?

There a few things to look for when you are seeking a Counsellor.

• Did your Counsellor attend an accredited graduate program at a reputable university or college?
• Is your Counsellor registered and/or certified as a Counsellor to ensure adherence to a professional code of ethics and conduct?
• Does your Counsellor have experience in the area of counselling that you are interested in?
• Does your Counsellor attend ongoing professional development (i.e., workshops and training)?
• Do you and your Counsellor have a "good fit" for one another? Every Counsellor has his or her own style and personality and it is important that you feel comfortable when you are with your Counsellor.

Holly Yager, Clinical Counsellor at Well Woman Counselling Services, has a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of British Columbia, has been a Counsellor for women and couples since 2001, is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, a Canadian Certified Counsellor with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, and regularly attends ongoing professional development to advance her skills and knowledge.

What should I expect in the first session?

In the first session you will meet with your Counsellor, Holly Yager, and fill out some paperwork including a consent form. You will spend some time getting to know one another to determine if there is a "good fit". You will share information about the issues that bring you to counselling and share your expectations for what you wish to gain from counselling. Together, you will set goals and make a plan for what to work on in future sessions.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions required depends on what you are working on. Most clients have between 8 to 12 sessions of counselling. Some clients have as few as 4 sessions, and many clients prefer a more in-depth exploration and attend sessions on a longer-term basis. After the initial counselling sessions are completed many clients find it helpful to return for occasional "booster" sessions.

How often will I be expected to come in for sessions?

Most clients come in once a week, or once every 2 weeks, for a set period of time. Whether you choose to come in weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, attending sessions on a consistent basis provides the best results. You can decide what feels right for you and discuss it with your Counsellor. Advance booking of appointments is available if you wish to reserve a preferred day or time.

What is the cost of counselling?

Fees are set according to guidelines recommended by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. Fees are due at the end of each session and are payable by cash, Visa, or MasterCard. See the Fees page for more information on current rates.

Is counselling covered by my health care plan?

Unfortunately, BC's provincial health care plan (MSP) does not cover the cost of counselling. However, many extended health care plans (e.g., Blue Cross, Sunlife, ManuLife) will reimburse you for the services of a Registered Clinical Counsellor or a Canadian Certified Counsellor. Check your benefits plan -- Holly Yager is both a RCC (#2981) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and a CCC (#3009) with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

Is everything I say confidential?

Yes, any personal information you share in counselling is kept confidential, even after the counselling relationship is finished. There are some exceptions, however. Some information may be shared with other Counsellors during ongoing professional supervision and/or consultation which is done for professional development purposes only and your identity will remain anonymous and confidential. In addition, Counsellors are required to share information when/if:

• It is revealed that a child is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect, or in need of protection;
• If your Counsellor believes that you or another person is at clear risk of imminent harm; and/or
• If your Counsellor is obligated to comply with a legal order such as a subpoena or if the disclosure is otherwise required or authorized by law.

Is the office private? What if others see me going in?

Sessions are scheduled with enough time in between so that clients rarely see one another in the waiting room. It is possible however to run into a client who is arriving early while you are leaving. If privacy is a critical concern, please tell your Counsellor so that special arrangements can be made.

How do I make an appointment?

To make a counselling appointment with Holly Yager you can email her at holly@wellwomancounselling.com or call 604.568.6765. Please note that there is no receptionist; leave a message on the confidential voicemail and your call will be returned during regular business hours (see Contact page for up to date business hours).

What if I need to cancel my appointment?

Please provide 24 hours notice to cancel an appointment or a $50 no-show fee will be charged (except when in the case of an emergency). Call Holly Yager at 604.568.6765 to cancel.

What if I am late for my appointment?

Clients arriving more than 15 minutes late for their scheduled appointment will be considered to have missed their appointment and a $50 no-show fee will be charged (except when in the case of an emergency).

What do I do if it is an emergency and I need to speak to a Counsellor outside of normal business hours?

If it is an after-hours emergency and you require immediate attention please call the Vancouver 24-hour Crisis Line at 604.872.3311, or call 911 and/or go to your nearest hospital Emergency Room for assistance.