FAQ's

What is the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist and a counsellor?

There seems to be so many terms used to describe those who provide care, help or advice to those dealing with issues such as depression, grief, anxiety, stress, and others. What is the difference? You could be speaking to a medical doctor or you could be speaking to someone who has no training at all, but has a sympathetic ear.

Although there are Professional Associations and Colleges that hold its members accountable and enforce a certain code of ethics, in Ontario there is presently no legal requirement for "counsellors" to have any professional training at all. Despite this oversight, most professionals take their training quite seriously. It would be wise to ask any mental health professional about their credentials before proceeding with any sort of counselling.

The difference between these terms may give some indication of an individuals training and approach in the case of a psychiatrist or psychologist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has been trained in general medicine and has chosen to specialize in psychiatry. A psychiatrist often sees clients as individuals and is able to prescribe drugs as well as provide counselling but may not be trained in working with family dynamics or relationship issues. A psychologist is not a medical doctor and is not able to prescribe drugs however has completed a doctorate program in psychology. Psychologists are licensed by the province and may or may not have specialized in family, child or adolescent psychology.

Professional therapists and counsellors are individuals who have completed Masters Degrees in a related field and have had a number of specialized courses in Marriage and Family Therapy. There is often an internship that is required and a number of professional service hours to acquire their designation. The term counsellor and therapist are often used interchangeably. Professional counsellors or therapists are members of professional organizations such as the Ontario Association of Marriage and Family Therapists which enforce a strict code of ethics and training requirements. As mentioned previously however, there is presently no legal restriction on the use of the term counsellor or therapist in Ontario. A religious leader, layperson or anyone with a sympathetic ear can say they provide counselling of therapy without any qualifications. Therefore is it important that you make sure you ask about your counsellor's qualifications.

Should I consider counselling?

The decision to seek counselling is one that few people undertake lightly. Consider the following:

• How does this issue or problem affect you and the people around you?
• How long has this issue been a part of your life and how would it feel to be able to put it behind you?
• How much has this issue cost you in the past and what may it cost you in the future? (financially, emotionally, physically, relationships)
• Are you ready to have things change?

Today's world is much more complicated and demanding than in years past, and thus the call for trained counsellors has been steadily increasing. Incidents of issues such as depression have increased more than 30 times since the 1950's. Counselling can offer a safe place to examine and discuss those issues, which keep us from experiencing the fullness of life.

What will it cost?

The cost is something many people consider before coming to counselling. How do you know it's worthwhile? How expensive can it become?

It is important to know that you are the "boss" when it comes to cost. You get to decide whether it is worth your while. You get to decide how often you choose to come. You get to decide how long counselling continues.

Each session costs $85 and is one hour long. A reduction in fee is possible due to economic hardship however, these subsidized spaces are limited. If you have questions about fees, feel free to drop us an email, give us a call or discuss it with your counsellor on your first session. We would be pleased to outline your options for you.

Your first appointment will be 1 ½ hours and includes a free, in person, 30 minute consultation. This gives you the opportunity to meet your counsellor, discuss your concerns, and determine if you feel that you wish to continue. Please feel free to book an appointment and if after the consultation you feel that counselling is not the appropriate course for you to take presently, let your counsellor know and we will be happy to provide any alternative referrals you might want - free of charge and no strings attached. It is important that you find a course of action that feels safe and comfortable for you and counselling may only be one possible option you wish to consider.

How often will I need to attend?

As long as you and your counsellor feel it is worthwhile to continue. Your counsellor works for you and you can choose to discontinue counselling at anytime.

The pace at which change occurs for a client depends on the issues being discussed and the rate at which the client feels comfortable in moving through those issues.

Some clients can see significant change in as little as 2 or 3 sessions. Others will take 8 to 10 sessions and others may want to continue even further.

What role does religious faith play in counselling?

Any good counsellor will respect the views and beliefs of their clients as long as they do not promote harm. As a Christian, my faith influences my worldview. Good therapy is not "value free" and should be non-judgmental. Religion, therefore, although it is reflected in my values, may have no role during counselling for some clients and may have a significant role for others if they so choose. Every counsellor brings his or her own value system into each counselling session. It is important for you to understand what that value system is regardless of the counsellor's religious affiliation so you might better understand where your counsellor is coming from.

How confidential is my counselling?

In short, confidentiality in counselling is paramount. You are entitled to know and question everything that is in your file and none of that information will be released without your written consent. There are some exceptions to this however if a child's welfare is in danger, if there is a safety issue (homicide, suicide) or in the event of a court order. The issue of confidentiality will be thoroughly explained in detail in your first session.