FAQS

  • All individuals and families will benefit from counselling by addressing their unique life experiences, hardships and challenges. At The Budding Elm, we believe that therapy is right for everyone. It is just a matter of finding the right counsellor and approach for each individual and family. It is through the therapeutic counselling process that individuals are able to strengthen insight, develop tools, and effectively cope with whatever life will bring.

  • Every client situation is unique. Depending on counselling goals and client history, therapy can vary from a few sessions (6-8) to a much longer-term counselling process. We encourage clients not to focus on the length of counselling as much as the willingness to participate, communicate and collaborate while engaged in sessions.

  • Sessions will differ based on client goals and the therapeutic approach being taken. However, a client can expect that their counsellor will create a safe space for them through acceptance, open dialogue and creative activity. Your counsellor will emphasize mindfulness (being present and in the moment), narrative reflection, emotional processing and relationship-focused engagement. Important to note, clients may experience waves of unfamiliar or overwhelming feelings during a session, but we encourage you to talk about these feelings as they arise! It is through dealing with difficult thoughts, feelings and emotions that we believe individuals are able to overcome them successfully.

  • The Budding Elm embraces a family-focused and family-centred counselling approach. In discussion with your counsellor, the opportunity may present itself to include family members in a session. We value joint sessions that emphasize strengthening and empowering the family system as a whole. To learn more about family counselling click here.

  • Counselling requires sharing and vulnerability. Therefore a good fit is the primary factor in a successful counsellor/client relationship. When meeting with your counsellor, the client should feel a natural draw to the style and approach of their counsellor. Other important factors include manner and personality. The client should instantly feel acceptance, openness and an element of relatability with their counsellor which will ensure that the relationship develops easily and naturally.

About Administration

  • Individuals may schedule an initial consult or session to gather more information about our services at The Budding Elm. This consultation can be done over the phone, in person or online. We use the JANE app for booking which can be accessed through our website, at the top right hand corner, or you can click here to book. If you have more questions for a specific practitioner you can find their contacts on our “Team” page. Otherwise you can give us a call at (250) 208-6949

  • Currently, counsellors within the province of B.C. are ineligible to directly bill to third-party insurance companies. After payment for a client session has been received by The Budding Elm, the client will receive a receipt to submit to an extended health insurance company for reimbursement. Also, The Budding Elm offers reduced client rates on a sliding scale where applicable. To determine if you might be eligible, please send your request to info@thebuddingelm.com

  • Connecting with the right therapist depends largely on individual and familial needs. Through initial correspondence with you, our team will begin by verifying extended medical plan coverage and whether or not there is a need for formal assessment and diagnosis. Through preliminary consultation, we gather the necessary information in regard to client concerns and counselling objectives. This information will allow our team to evaluate who will ultimately be the best fit for you.

  • The initial consultation provides potential clients with the opportunity to meet one-on-one with a counsellor. During this consultation, both client and clinician are able to discuss any concerns as well as counselling objectives. This consultation will be 15 minutes long and is of no charge to the client. A consultation at The Budding Elm can take place in person, virtually online or by telephone. To schedule a consultation, you can click here, or give us a call at (250)-208-6949

  • At The Budding Elm, we accept cheques, e-transfer, cash, credit card or Interact. However, clients are encouraged to make their payment following an appointment through our in-office Interact machine. Clients may also make session payments through their online profile with our JANE booking app, the platform used to send clients weekly reminders of any amount outstanding.

About Counselling