FAQs

What makes someone a “qualified” mental health professional?

All of our therapists at Wellness Couch Counselling meet the highest standard for being a qualified mental health professional. A qualified therapist typically has a master's or higher degree in a relevant field, holds professional licensure, and adheres to ethical standards. They have practical experience and may specialize in specific areas, often gaining certification and supervision.

 

Under Nova Scotia legislation, only individuals who are registered with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT) are permitted to use the title “Registered Counselling Therapist.” It also prohibits anyone other than an RCT from describing the services they provide as “counselling therapy”. 

 

For your protection it is important that when seeking counselling therapy, you check the License Status Check to ensure you are getting a licensed counselling therapist.

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How do I book a session?  Can I schedule a session in the mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends?

 

To book a session, you can contact us directly through email or going to the contact us page. Our scheduling options differ by therapist. Please be aware that at times, we may have a waitlist for new clients, but we will do our best to schedule your session as promptly as possible. We utilize an online platform for booking. You can preview therapist availability by visiting our booking platform. 

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Do I need to prepare for my first therapy session?

 

It can be helpful to think about your goals and what you want to discuss with your therapist beforehand. However, don't worry too much about preparing for your first session. Your therapist will generally be guiding the intake session and prompting questions to get to know you and your situation. They will likely ask questions about what brought you to therapy, your background and history, family and interests, as well as share some things about the therapy process and how it works, and what you can expect going forward. 

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What happens in a therapy session?

 

In a standard 60-minute therapy session, you typically focus on a concern or goal you set with your therapist. Therapy is a collaboration, meaning that the client brings the “expertise” of knowing their life, and the therapist brings the “expertise” on knowing how to help understand and cope through these issues. Therefore, in session, the client generally spends time sharing aspects about their life and the therapist spends time teaching and recommending skills and strategies to alleviate distress or difficult emotions, thoughts, and behaviour, in order to create change. 

 

 

What’s the difference between talking to a therapist or my friend or family?

 

The key difference is between someone who has the skills and experience to help you effectively and someone who means well but may lack professional expertise. When you retain the services of a Registered Counselling Therapist, you can expect to receive competent care, clear professional boundaries, and specialized expertise. They provide non-judgmental support, all while keeping your conversations private. 

 

Talking to friends or family during tough times is important for a warm, comfortable and familiar touch, but be mindful that oftentimes we leave out details and “filter” our feelings in order to maintain our close relationships and to not make our loved ones “worried about us”. In therapy, you do not have to be mindful of the feelings of others and it’s a place where you can work on yourself honestly and authentically. 

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I’m not really struggling but I want to work on myself. Can I be in therapy or am I taking up space for someone who needs it more than me?

 

Absolutely, you can seek therapy to work on self-improvement and personal growth, even if you're not in crisis. Therapy isn't just for individuals facing acute challenges; it's also a valuable resource for enhancing overall well-being, self-awareness, and personal development. Therapists are equipped to assist a wide range of needs, from addressing specific issues to helping individuals thrive and reach their full potential. You are not taking up space for someone who needs it more; rather, you are utilizing therapy as a proactive means to invest in yourself and your mental and emotional health. Your journey towards self-improvement is just as valid and important.

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Can my therapist prescribe me medication?

 

Registered Counselling Therapists are not licensed to prescribe medication. If medication is considered a part of your mental health treatment, you would need to consult with a physician or nurse practitioner. However, we are able to review your current prescriptions to determine whether they are effective for managing and alleviating your mental health symptoms. In many cases, therapists and a prescribing professional work together as part of a clients comprehensive treatment plan. Therapists often provide written letters of support, consults, and referral recommendation to physicians or other professionals to ensure that your mental health is being managed.  

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Do I need to be on medication if I am struggling with my mental health?

 

Not at all. The need for medication when struggling with mental health varies from person to person and depends on the nature and severity of the concerns. It's important to note that medication is just one of many possible treatment options. Research demonstrates that incorporation therapy and lifestyle changes (movement, diet, mindfulness, sleep) is more effective in alleviating symptoms than medication. Whether or not you need medication should be determined through a collaborative process involving you, a mental health professional, and a physician. 

 

How often do people go to therapy?

 

The frequency of therapy varies. Some people have weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly sessions, use therapy as-needed, or engage in intensive therapy. In general, therapy tends to be more frequent at the start, and then tends to have more space between sessions as time goes on. However, this all depends on individual needs and goals, with discussions with your therapist to determine the best fit.