I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, We’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, Counselling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.

How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?

Because each person has different issues and goals for Counselling, it will be different depending on the individual. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs.

How long will it take?

Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time Counselling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek Counselling in the first place.

I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?

We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

What does counselling cost?

The cost to see a practicum therapist (a person completing her/his Masters degree in Counselling who is acquiring experience hours for graduation and registration) is $39.85 including GST per session.

The cost to see a Therapeutic Counsellor (a Counsellor who has not yet obtained her/his registration or certification) or a Sr Therapeutic Counsellor (a registered or certified counsellor with one or more Masters degrees) is between $89.85 and $141.75 for those with one or more full-time employment income(s) in their household, and $69.85 for those whose household income is limited to disability, social assistance, student aid, or a household pension under $75,000. These costs include GST. If and when the Government of BC regulates the therapeutic counselling profession, these costs will go down as GST will no longer be required.

What government funding does Island Community Counselling receive?

In 2018, the agency received $32,000 from the Gaming Fund. In 2019, we received $25,000, in 2020 and 2021 $40,000 from the Gaming Fund. We have requested but have been unsuccessful in obtaining more funding from the Government of British Columbia, and we receive no funding from any other level of government.

Since 2018:

• Our office costs have risen 750% as we have been forced to acquire new office space in Nanaimo and we have added office space in Courtenay, Parksville, and Duncan
• Our number of clients served has risen by 475%, and we are serving more than 2000 clients annually compared to only 385 in 2018
• Our number of therapists has risen by 460%, going from five to 23, with another 6 therapists joining us in January 2022
• We are currently running a $75,000 shortfall, and that is projected to increase to $125,000 in 2022 unless we receive increased funding
• As of January 1, 2021, we are required to remit 1/21 of our income to the Government of Canada for GST.

Covid has greatly increased the demand for mental health counselling and support. We have grown to meet the increased demand, and we have done so without a wait list. Without the provincial government stepping up to a significant degree, we will no longer be able to do so.