I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor offering virtual counselling to adults across British Columbia. I have been practising since 2011 and providing online sessions since 2020.

Sessions take place by secure video or by telephone, from wherever you are most comfortable.

How online counselling works with me

The platform

I conduct virtual counselling sessions through Jane. If Jane is not working well for you, or if there are technical difficulties, I also use Doxy as an alternative. Both platforms are encrypted and comply with PIPEDA privacy requirements.

What you need

• A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a reliable internet connection
• A private space where you can speak comfortably without being overheard
• Headphones are optional, though some clients find they improve privacy and reduce distractions

If we are planning to use EMDR, I will also make sure your camera is positioned so I can clearly see your eye movements if we are using visual bilateral stimulation.

If the connection drops

It is uncommon, but technology issues can happen. If our connection is interrupted, please reconnect using the same link you originally received. If we are still unable to reconnect, I will send you a secure Doxy link. If video is not possible, I will call you and we can decide together how best to continue the session.

Video or phone

I offer both. In my experience, phone sessions can be just as effective as video for traditional talk therapy.

EMDR, the Flash Technique, and hypnotherapy require video, as I need to see you and guide you through the process visually.

If something changes mid-session or you run into technical difficulties, we can switch from video to phone, with the same exception for those three approaches.

Is online therapy as effective as in person?

Since beginning virtual counselling in 2020, I have found it to be an effective option for many clients. They often appreciate being able to attend sessions from the comfort and privacy of their own home, and many report the experience feels just as meaningful and effective as in-person therapy.

In my experience, virtual counselling works well for many concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions.

Ultimately, the most important factor is finding the format that feels right for you.

I only offer virtual counselling. There are occasions where I may recommend that someone consider in-person services or another resource if I believe it would better meet their needs. If that happens, I will explain my reasoning and discuss the available options with you.

From my own perspective, I do not notice a significant difference between the two. My focus is on being present with the client, whether we are meeting virtually or in person. Virtual counselling simply allows us to do that without needing to be in the same physical location.

Preparing for your first session

What to do beforehand

There is no preparation required. Most people already know that something in their life is not working the way they would like it to, and we will spend time together exploring what that looks like for you.

Some clients arrive with lots of details they want to share, while others are not quite sure where to begin. Both are completely okay.

There is no homework before counselling. If you think it would help, you are welcome to jot down a few notes about the challenges you are experiencing, questions you would like to ask, or goals you would like to work toward. If not, we will figure it out together during the session.

Setting up your space

Privacy is the most important part of setting up for a virtual session. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can speak freely without worrying about being overheard. If you are concerned someone might hear the conversation, it is natural to hold back or avoid certain topics, which limits what you are able to work on.

Something clients do not always think about: if I can see or hear another person in the room or nearby, I will naturally be more cautious about the questions I ask or the direction the conversation takes, because I want to protect your privacy. Having a private space allows both of us to focus fully on the session.

Good lighting and a comfortable place to sit help too, but privacy matters most.

Intake and forms

The counselling process begins during your first session. I do not require a separate intake or assessment appointment beforehand.

Before we meet, I will ask you to complete a few standard forms: informed consent, information about the limits of confidentiality, and your emergency contact details. This lets us spend more of our first session getting to know each other.

What happens in the first session

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and begin understanding what has brought you to counselling. I usually start by asking what you would like to begin with, as many clients have been carrying things for a long time and have a lot they have been waiting to express.

As we talk, I will ask questions to better understand the challenges you are experiencing, when you first began noticing them, how they are affecting your life, and what you hope to gain from counselling.

If you are not sure where to begin, I will help guide the conversation as we gradually explore what has been happening and identify the goals you would like us to work toward together.

My qualifications

Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, registration #12205.

• Practising as an RCC since 2011
• Providing virtual counselling since 2020
• Master of Counselling, City University of Seattle (Vancouver, BC campus)
• Professional liability insurance in place

What I work with most

Although I work with a variety of concerns, I have the most experience helping clients struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression and low mood, grief and loss, relationship challenges, burnout, chronic stress, difficult life transitions, and low self-esteem.

Referrals

I accept referrals from a variety of health professionals, including family physicians, psychiatrists, chiropractors, physiotherapists, and other healthcare providers. A referral is welcome but not required to book an appointment.

At this time I am not contracted with any Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providers. Please note that MSP does not cover counselling services provided by Registered Clinical Counsellors.

Fees and extended health benefits

Fee: $150 for a 60-minute counselling session.

Direct billing: I am able to direct bill to Blue Cross, Sun Life, and many other insurers through the TELUS eClaims system. If you are unsure whether your plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors, check with your insurance provider before your first appointment.

Do you need a doctor’s referral? Most extended health plans do not require a physician referral for counselling provided by an RCC. Because every plan is different, confirm your individual requirements with your provider.

Documentation: If you are submitting your own claim, I will provide a receipt within 24 to 48 hours of your session. If your plan allows direct billing and you have authorized me to bill on your behalf, I am happy to do that instead.

Reduced rates: Not at this time. If counselling fees are a barrier, I am happy to refer you to lower-cost counselling options or community resources that may better fit your budget.

EAP: I am not working with any EAP companies at this time.

Funded programs: I do accept clients funded through ICBC, the Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP), WorkSafeBC, and WorkBC, where applicable.

Availability and booking

My availability varies throughout the week and occasionally includes weekend appointments. The best way to see current openings is by checking my online Jane booking calendar, which is also the easiest way to book.

I do not maintain a general waitlist, but if you would like to be contacted should a cancellation become available, I am happy to add you to my cancellation list.

Cancellations: Your appointment time is reserved specifically for you. I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, or missed appointments, are charged the full session fee.

Start with a free 15-minute call

Looking for a counsellor can be stressful, and finding the right fit is important. I offer a no-fee 15-minute phone call for potential new clients, where you can talk about the areas you would like support with and ask any questions about my approach or the counselling process in general.

Frequently asked questions

Is online therapy confidential and secure?
Yes. I use Jane, with Doxy as a backup. Both are encrypted and PIPEDA-compliant.

Can I do phone sessions instead of video?
Yes, for talk therapy. EMDR, the Flash Technique, and hypnotherapy need video.

Where in BC do you work?
Anywhere in the province, as long as you are located in BC.

Do I need to prepare anything for my first session?
No. Bring whatever is on your mind. Notes are welcome but not necessary.

How much is a session?
$150 for 60 minutes. Direct billing available through TELUS eClaims for many insurers.

Do I need a doctor’s referral?
Usually not, but check your specific extended health plan.

Does MSP cover counselling?
No. MSP does not cover services provided by Registered Clinical Counsellors.

How do I book?
Through my online Jane booking system, which shows my current availability.