Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions page! Here, you'll find answers to common inquiries to help you on your journey. We’re here to support you, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need further assistance!
General counselling FAQs Q: What types of counselling do you offer in Vancouver? A: I offer virtual counselling services focussing on: - Queer and trans-affirming therapy -Complex trauma and C-PTSD -Neurodivergent-affirming counselling -Relationship and attachment work -Somatic or emotion-focused approaches Q: Do you offer in-person and online counselling sessions? A: At this time, I offer virtual services. If you would like to chat about the potential for an in-person session, you’re welcome to email me at: info@counsellingwithrachelle.com Q: How do I know if counselling is right for me? A: If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, burnt out, lonely, or struggling with old patterns and painful memories, counselling might be supportive. You don’t have to be “in crisis” for therapy to be impactful; sometimes it’s about wanting a space that’s just for you to process old wounds, life transitions, identity, grief, relationships, or self-worth. If you’re curious about whether counselling is right for you, we can start with a free consultation to see how it feels. Q: What can I expect in my first counselling session? A: During our first session, we’ll check in about any questions regarding intake forms, cancellation policies, or anything else on your mind. We’ll then spend time looking at your goals or reasons for starting (or returning to) therapy. Starting therapy can feel a bit awkward, so the first session often includes some history gathering and space to get a feel for how we’ll work together. My goal is to make the session feel as comfortable and collaborative as possible. Q: How long is each counselling session, and how often should I come? A: Sessions are 50 minutes or 75 minutes long for therapy sessions, and 40 minutes long for system navigation sessions. Some people prefer weekly or Bi-weekly sessions for greater continuity and momentum, while others opt for every three weeks or monthly sessions, depending on their needs, goals, and accessibility. We can chat and see what feels sustainable and supportive for you. Q: Do you offer sliding-scale or reduced-rate sessions? A: Yes. I hold a limited number of sliding-scale spots for folks who may not otherwise be able to access counselling. If cost is a barrier, please reach out, and we can discuss my sliding scale availability or waitlist, as well as how it works. Alternatively, we can try to connect you with other resources if needed.
Specialized service FAQs Q: What is queer-affirming counselling, and how can it help? A: Queer-affirming counselling is therapy that fully honours and supports your identity without judgment, pathologizing, or the need to educate your therapist about who you are. It recognizes the unique challenges and joys of being part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Q: What is queer-affirming trauma counselling, and how can it help? A: Queer-affirming trauma counselling recognizes that healing trauma happens when all parts of your identity are respected and affirmed. It acknowledges how trauma, whether from relationships, family, systems, or society, intersects with experiences of being queer, trans, or non-binary. Q: How does neurodiverse-affirming counselling work? A: Neurodiverse-affirming counselling is an approach that respects and values neurological differences rather than framing them as something to “fix.” Instead, we can explore how your brain and body work, honour your unique ways of processing, and build strategies that align with your needs. This might mean supporting sensory regulation, communication differences, or working through internalized shame ableism. Q: Do you offer relationship therapy for non-monogamous couples? A: Yes, offer relationship therapy for non-monogamous couples, monogamous couples and people in polyamorous or open relationships. Q: What does sex-positive therapy involve? A: Sex-positive therapy creates space to talk about sexuality, pleasure, relationships, and desires without shame. Whether you’re exploring kink, touch, or simply wanting to feel more connected to your body and sexuality, this is a space where your exploration will be respected. There is a focus on consent, communication, safety, and joy, so you can connect with your sexuality in ways that feel empowering. Q: Can counselling help with racial identity development? A: Yes. Racial identity development can bring up complex emotions, including pride, grief, a sense of belonging, or disconnection. Counselling offers space to explore your experiences of race, culture, and identity within the context of family, community, and systemic oppression. Together, we can unpack internalized narratives and help you reclaim your identity.
Logistics & booking FAQs Q: How do I book a counselling session with you? A: You can book directly through my online booking system on this website. If you have questions about availability, need flexibility, or want to ask about in-person options, you’re welcome to email me at: info@counsellingwithrachelle.com Q: What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy? A: If you need to change/cancel an appointment, please let me know 24 hours in advance by phone or email. If you cancel with less than 24 hours ’ notice or do not attend a session (no show), the full session fee will need to be paid before our next appointment. Q: Do you offer free consultations before starting therapy? A: Yes! I offer a free consultation before starting therapy, allowing us to connect, discuss your goals, and see if we’re a good fit. It’s a low-pressure way to ask questions, discuss what you’re looking for, and get a sense of what working together might be like. Book a free consultation here! Q: Are sessions covered by insurance or extended health benefits? A: As a Registered Social Worker (RSW, MSW), my services are often covered by extended health insurance plans in British Columbia and other Provinces. Coverage varies, so I recommend checking with your provider to confirm if counselling with a registered social worker is included in your plan. Q: Can you direct bill my insurance or extended health benefits? A: No, unfortunately, at this time, I cannot bill insurance directly. However, you can submit receipts to insurance providers for reimbursement.
Ethics & approach FAQs Q: What does it mean to be an LGBTQ2S+-affirming therapist? A: For me, being an LGBTQ2S+-affirming therapist means creating a space where queer and trans folks don’t have to explain or defend who they are. It’s about understanding the realities of living in a world that can be unsafe or invalidating, and making sure therapy is the opposite—a place where your identity is celebrated, not questioned. Q: How do you create a safe and inclusive space for all clients? A: Safety is at the core of therapy. I work from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive lens and approach folks from a cultural curiosity and humility. This means I centre respect, curiosity, and compassion, while acknowledging the impacts of systems of oppression. I invite feedback, check in often, and look to adapt to your needs so you feel safe, seen, and supported. Q: What types of therapeutic models do you use? A: I use Somatic Therapy, IFS/Parts Work and Attachment Theory. I also integrate Polyvagal Theory and Feminist Narrative Therapy, creating a holistic and relational approach that allows for intersecting identities and realities to be present. Q: Do you have experience working with people from different cultural backgrounds? A: Yes. My work is rooted in cultural humility, meaning each client is the expert of their own lived experience. I have experience supporting people from diverse cultural, racial, and faith backgrounds, and I remain committed to ongoing learning, reflection, and accountability. Q: How do you maintain confidentiality in counselling? A: Confidentiality is a core part of therapy; what is said in your session remains confidential. I utilize the JaneApp platform, which supports compliance with privacy regulations, including British Columbia’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA). If there is a concern for safety, we can look at how this might impact confidentiality and explore ways to address it in an anti-oppressive way.