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Clinic Policies and
Client Consents

At the time of booking, you'll be asked to review and agree to the following policies and consents. We are committed to providing you with high-quality, ethical therapy, and your understanding and agreement of these policies ensures a clear and transparent process for both parties.

 

Should you have any questions or need further clarification, we’re happy to answer any concerns you may have.

Our Commitment to You


Our clinic is dedicated to providing compassionate, effective, and professional therapy services. We continuously stay updated with the latest developments in the field of mental health through ongoing professional development, case consultations, and attending relevant conferences. This ensures that we provide you with the highest standard of care, adhering to the ethical guidelines set by the Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) and the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT).

Therapist Qualifications

All of our therapists are Registered Counselling Therapists (RCTs) with advanced Master’s degrees in Psychology or Counselling. They have extensive experience and training and are committed to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest therapeutic practices.

 

What We Cannot Offer

While a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) can provide comprehensive therapy services, there are certain limitations to their scope of practice:

  • Formal Diagnosis: RCTs cannot provide formal diagnoses for mental health disorders or offer psychoeducational assessments (e.g., ADHD, PTSD, Anxiety, learning disabilities).

  • Medication Prescription: RCTs cannot prescribe medication.

  • Occupational Assessments: RCTs cannot provide documentation for leave of absence ("stress leave"), or workplace adjustments (work from home, reduced hours, RTW planning)

If we believe a referral to another supporting provider is necessary, we will discuss this with you and can offer a letter of support outlining our impression if necessary. A small administration fee will apply for supporting documentation. 

​​​General Expectations

The success of our work together depends on your active involvement. Therapy is most effective when you are engaged, committed, and open to change. Our role is to support you in identifying areas for growth and providing the necessary tools, but the effort to implement changes and make progress lies with you. If at any point there is a lack of engagement, we may suggest taking a break or exploring other resources that better align with your needs. Your engagement is essential for success, and we are here to guide and support you through this process.

 

Risks and Benefits of Therapy

Therapy can provide significant benefits, but it's important to be aware of the potential risks:

  • Potential Benefits: Therapy can help reduce distress, enhance personal insight, and support long-term personal growth and relationship satisfaction.

  • Potential Risks: Exploring difficult emotions may result in temporary discomfort, such as sadness, guilt, or anxiety. Additionally, you may notice changes in your relationships as you develop new coping strategies and insights.

 

Privacy and Confidentiality

We take your privacy seriously. All personal information shared within therapy sessions is kept confidential, except in specific legal situations, such as:

  • If we believe you may harm yourself or others.

  • If we are required by law (e.g., court order, subpoena) to release information.

  • If there is suspected harm to vulnerable individuals (e.g., children, elderly).

 

Consent to Collection and Use of Personal Information

Your personal information is collected in compliance with privacy laws, including the Personal Health Information & Privacy Act (PHIPA). This information is used solely for the purposes of providing therapy and maintaining accurate records. Your information will be stored securely for a period of seven years after your last session, and access is restricted to authorized personnel only.

 

Appointment Scheduling & Cancellations

  • Scheduling: Appointments must be scheduled through our online booking system or via our reception team. You will receive an appointment confirmation email once your session is booked.

  • Payment: Payment is expected at the time of each session via e-transfer, credit card, or debit card. We can also provide direct billing through Medavie Blue Cross if you have insurance coverage.

  • Cancellations: A 24-hour notice is required for cancellations. Late cancellations or no-shows will be charged the full session fee unless there is an exceptional circumstance (e.g., medical emergency, severe weather).

 

Therapist Availability and Response Time

Each therapist sets their own schedule, meaning they may not be in the office during typical business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM). Response times may vary depending on their availability, but our therapists aim to reply to emails and messages within 1-2 business days.

Behavioural Expectations

We expect all clients to treat our staff and other clients with respect. Disruptive or inappropriate behaviour may result in termination of services.

 

Insurance and Coverage

 

We can offer direct billing to Medavie Blue Cross ONLY.

 

Counselling therapy is typically billable to most insurance companies, but it’s your responsibility to verify whether your specific insurance plan covers the cost.  Insurance coverage for counselling therapy can vary between plans and provinces, so we recommend confirming details directly with your provider. If your plan includes a co-payment, you’ll be responsible for paying that portion during your session. In cases where your plan doesn’t support direct billing, we’ll provide a detailed receipt for you to submit your claim manually.

 

If you have any questions about billing or insurance, feel free to reach out, and we’ll be happy to assist!

Ready to get started?

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Find Us

Wellness Couch Counselling
Suite C, 125 Main St.
Antigonish, Nova Scotia
B2G 2B6
wellnesscouchcounselling@gmail.com

© 2023 WELLNESS COUCH COUNSELLING

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