How do I book a session?
To book a session, email: joelle@scintillatherapy.com
I only provide sessions online though Jane App software (Chrome or Jane App needed).
What are your rates/fees?
My current rates are $168 per 50-minute session (includes GST) for individuals.
I accept credit card and etransfer.
I offer a free, 15-minute consultation as I realize the importance of finding a counsellor who is the right fit and will provide a strong therapeutic relationship. Click here to contact me to set up a consult.
Can I claim this on my insurance/MSP?
Check your specific coverage. If you are able to charge an RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor), then you will be able to submit to your benefits. I do not bill insurance companies directly.
How many sessions will I need?
Length of a therapeutic relationship will differ greatly from person-to-person. Sometimes only a few sessions are needed, but sometimes a therapeutic relationship lasts many years. If you have a limited number of sessions you can access, please see the question below. Most clients prefer to have sessions once per week.
I only have coverage for a certain amount of sessions, is it worth coming?
Yes! If you have access to a limited number of sessions, we can choose goals that work within those sessions to give you the best experience possible. As a lot of therapeutic growth happens between sessions, I can provide you with tools and strategies to use on your own.
How long is each session?
Each session is 50-55 minutes, however I am happy to accommodate longer sessions depending on circumstances.
What is a typical session like?
A typical session usually consists of a quick review of what was worked on last session, and any updates that have occurred between sessions. Then we will reference current goals, and if the circumstances are right (there is nothing more pressing to work on), then we go ahead with tools and techniques to work towards them. Some techniques are more ‘formal’ with a distinct beginning and end, whereas others are less ‘formal’ and interwoven throughout other techniques.
The first session is a little different. We discuss current concerns, goals, and techniques I may use in subsequent sessions.
There are a lot of counsellors, I’m confused of who to pick/why should I choose you?
Choosing a counsellor can be a daunting task! Counsellors are all very different, we vary in style, approach, techniques, availability, and personality. To see if I am the right fit, it is easiest to meet with me for a free 15-minute consultation. Contact me here to set one up!
When are you available?
I work weekday afternoons and evenings. Please contact me for more information on availability.
Who can come to counselling?
Counselling is for everyone. Many people don’t come to counselling because they think their issue is “too small” or “too big/heavy”. They are either afraid of being judged for what is causing them distress, or are convinced nothing will be able to help them. These are all very normal reactions to distress in life. I can assure you that nothing is too small if it is bothering you. Nothing is too large as counsellors are trained for many types of trauma, and if they are not, they refer out to someone who is. I provide a confidential, non-judgemental atmosphere for you to explore anything that is causing you distress.
Are you open to clients who belong to [specific minority group]?
Yes. I do not discriminate against any groups; anyone is welcome.
I have specific experience with those who live with disabilities (chronic illness, chronic pain).
I am LGBTQ2S+ and poly-friendly! Non-judgmental to humans of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and religious backgrounds. I have experience with trans, non-binary, and non-monogamous individuals/couples/groups.
What does “scintilla” mean?
Scintilla is a Jungian Psychology term meaning “soul spark”. It is a small bit of light in an otherwise dark abyss.
Are sessions confidential?
Yes. Everything in session is confidential. There are a few limitations surrounding this, as per the BCACC guidelines surrounding imminent safety concerns, abuse, and legal subpoena.
Do you take clients outside of B.C.?
Currently I do not take clients who reside outside of British Columbia, Canada. However, due to my online practice, I am open to clients anywhere within B.C.
What is the difference between a therapist, counsellor, psychologist, psychotherapist, psychiatrist?
Therapist - A broad term that covers many helping and healing professions.
Counsellor - An unregulated term in B.C., therefore technically anyone can refer to themselves as a “counsellor”. However, there are regulating bodies, such as the BCACC (British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors), that only allow members with a Masters degree and specific numbers of clinical hours to be members. Those registered with BCACC have the RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor) designation. Counsellors have in-depth knowledge of diagnosis, medications, and treatments, but cannot make formal diagnoses or prescribe medicaiton.
Social Worker or RSW - Social workers can hold a bachelors or masters degree in social work. Those with a masters degree can become an RSW (Registered social worker) if they meet the criteria.
Psychologist - Someone with a Ph.D (doctorate degree) in psychology. They can assess for mental health conditions, but cannot prescribe medication.
Psychiatrist - Someone with a Ph.D in medicine (medical doctor) who specializes in mental health. They can assess, diagnose, as well as provide prescription medication.
Psychotherapist - A general term for any of the above. Sometimes, this is specifically identifying someone who uses the psychoanalytic (Freudian) approaches.
