Online counselling is another option for people who want the benefit of talking with an experienced professional therapist without having to leave the comfort of their own home. The session is conducted by choosing a time that fits for both the client and the therapist just like booking an in-office appointment. Then, the client and therapist can chat through Hush Messenger in an encrypted environment allowing privacy for the client. The other option for clients is writing an email and sending it via Hushmail to ensure the same privacy, and sending it to the therapist. The therapist then spends an hour writing a thoughtful response with helpful feedback for the client. Both are an option for on-line counselling and cost the same as an in –office appointment. Payment is made through Paypal on this site prior to the session and all forms must be completed and emailed prior to the session.
Online counselling provides an environment in which the true identity of the client may not always be known. Because of this, some issues are not appropriate for on-line counselling because of the duty of the therapist to report in certain situations and confidentiality is waived. These situations include threat to himself or herself or someone else, harm or neglect to a minor and situations in which a court may subpoena the client’s information. This means that issues such as suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, and violence in relationships cannot adequately be dealt with in an on-line environment. This is for the protection of yourself and others.
It is also important to note who has access to your computer and/or pass codes. You may or may not want others to know you are receiving counselling and so keeping your computer or pass codes private, will help to ensure your privacy.
Hush Messenger is the chat and instant messaging member of the Hush family of secure communication services, and is currently free to download and use! Your chat sessions will enjoy the same ease of use expected in any instant messaging client, with the security and transparent, end-to-end encryption shared by all Hush services. Click here to learn more and download Hush Messenger.
Hushmail keeps your online communications private and secure. Each message is uniquely encoded before it leaves your computer. A Hushmail account lets you communicate in security with any other Hush member or PGP-compatible email user anywhere in the world. Click here to learn more and signup for Hushmail.
These are struggles that can be discussed and worked through with your qualified counsellor in a non-biased, non-judgmental setting. We take great pride in helping you overcome these difficulties and work to make your experience in therapy as comfortable as possible with flexible hours, an empathetic counsellor, and central locations.
At West Coast Counselling Inc., we will meet you for the first session prepared and ready to assist you in making positive changes in your life. By filling out our Intake Form before your first session, you are providing important information beforehand which enables your therapist to meet with you with an understanding of you and your issue. Download Intake Form.
Prior to completing the form, please view our disclosure statement (PDF) which contains important information regarding confidentiality and as well as a description of our experience. As well, please view the fee schedule (PDF) and payment agreement (PDF) form and indicate which fee level you would fit into. Please note that our fees are covered by some extended health plans, as well as by Crime Victim’s Assistance.
Download a PDF containing all information about West Coast Counselling. (PDF | 2 pages | 575k)