FAQs

ABOUT COUNSELLING

Can counselling help me?

Absolutely! Counselling can help you feel better. Throughout the process it helps to treat many of life’s challenges, such as stress, anxiety, relationship struggles, and help lead you to increased self awareness and personal growth. A counsellor provides a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and gain insight into yourself and your life’s experiences.

Is therapy confidential? 

Yes. Our counselling interns are bound by strict ethical guidelines and legal requirements to maintain client confidentiality. This means that anything discussed during therapy sessions remains private between you and your counselling intern. Exceptions to confidentiality are rare and would involve situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

How effective is therapy?

Therapy's effectiveness varies depending on factors, such as the connection with your therapist and how early and proactively you seek help. Many people experience improvements in mental health, coping skills and overall quality of life. Our clients report having a new outlook on life and themselves.

COUNSELLING sessions

How many sessions do I get?

Every client will receive three free sessions, and then they can choose to continue working with our counselling interns for another five sessions at a cost of $20 per sessions, for a total of eight sessions. 

Is it really free for the first three sessions?

Yep! With the help of our generous donors, we offer free in-person and online therapy in New Brunswick to anyone in need. No catches or strings attached!

What if I need more than eight hours of counselling?

We are committed to not turning away clients in a time of need. If you reach eight sessions and you feel you need to continue with your counselling intern, arrangements can be made to extend service at the same $20 per session.

What if I can’t afford $20 a session?

Please contact us and we can review your situation on a case-by-case basis.

Do you offer free consultations?

At this time we do not offer free consultations.

How often will I meet my therapist?

Generally the first three free sessions are closer together and the remaining sessions are gradually spaced out depending on how you are feeling and coping. Session frequency can depend on a number of factors, including client needs and intern therapist availability.

What can I expect in the first session?

In your first counseling session, you can expect to meet with the intern therapist with whom you are booked, who will listen to your concerns and provide a safe space for you to share your thoughts and feelings. The therapist will work with you to understand your goals for counseling and develop a plan for your sessions. You can expect confidentiality, empathy and a non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions.

Can I do virtual counselling?

Yes! We offer both in-person and online counselling. To book a virtual appointment please call us at 506-651-1239. 

What is the cancellation policy?

Clients can cancel or reschedule an appointment anytime, for any reason, with a minimum of 24 hours notice. There is a lot of demand for our services, so this policy allows us time to offer the spot to someone else in need.

Appointment no-shows result in a charge for the full cost of a session ($20). Late cancels (less than 24 hours) will result in a $10 charge. If no-shows occur within the first three free sessions, no charge will occur; however, it will be considered that you used one of your free appointments. 

What are the hours of operation? Can I get an evening appointment?

We have very limited evening availability. Please consult our booking platform or call us to find an evening appointment.

COUNSELLING interns

Are your counselling interns qualified to speak with me? Are they regulated?

Our interns are students finishing their Masters Degree in either counselling or social work and require up to 800 clinical practice hours in order to graduate. They are supervised by our Clinical Lead, Ashley Trenholm, BA, MACP, LCT, CCT, and attend regular meetings with her to discuss their learning goals and progress on skill acquisition. 

What if my intern therapist leaves mid-way through our counselling?

You will be informed on the date your intern is finishing their internship during your initial session,and a transition plan will be addressed should you like to continue with another intern therapist. 

How will I know how to pick the right provider for me?

We have a number of different interns at any time from a variety of diverse backgrounds. We encourage you to read our intern bios and consider factors like their expertise in your specific concerns, therapy approach, and compatibility with your personality and values.

What if I don’t like my therapist? Can I choose another one?

Yes, if you find that you don't feel comfortable or have a good connection with your intern therapist, it is completely acceptable to request a change with our admin team. Your comfort and trust in the therapeutic relationship are essential for the counseling process to be effective. We will do our best to accommodate, however intern availability changes weekly.

Organization

How are you able to provide low-cost counselling?

Our intern program is near and dear to our hearts and allows us to offer valuable and necessary accessible mental health services to community members experiencing financial barriers to mental health care. Our interns are students finishing their Masters Degree in either counselling or social work and require up to 800 clinical practice hours in order to graduate.

How can I support your cause?

There are many ways to donate. Please visit our donation page to learn more.