I’m curious about counselling; where do I start?

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step, and we’re here to make it easier. Whether you're seeking counselling for yourself, your child, or as a couple, we invite you to begin with a free 15-minute consultation. This initial conversation helps us understand your needs and answer any questions you may have.

Following the consultation, you’re welcome to book a 80-minute new client intake session. From there, we’ll work with you to schedule ongoing counselling sessions tailored to your goals.

• Consultation Session

Online or in-person, an initial consult allows a potential client and counsellor to discuss the client's hopes for counselling, ask questions, find out more about how counselling works, and to decide if things feel like a good fit.

15 mins | No Charge | Book Here

• New Client Intake Session

Online or in-person, this time will be spent discussing the client’s reasons for seeking counselling, their goals and relevant background information. The counsellor will review confidentiality, the counselling process and the approaches that may be used. The intake session serves as a foundation for future sessions, helping the client understand what to expect and how their goals will be addressed.

Individual Intake Session | 80 mins | $225 | Book Here

Couples Intake Session | 80 mins | $260 | Book Here

• Counselling Session

Online or in-person, this is a confidential, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Together, you and your counsellor work toward understanding challenges, building coping strategies, and moving toward meaningful personal goals.

Individual Counselling Session | 50 mins | $160 | Book Here

Couples Counselling Session | 50 mins | $190 | Book Here

What forms of payment do you accept?

We use the Jane booking platform, which allows you to conveniently pay by credit card online. We also accept e-transfer payments sent to our administrative email: info@gathercounselling.ca.

Can I claim my counselling costs?

All counsellors at Gather are either Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) with the British Columbia Clinical Counselling Association (BCACC) ensuring the highest standard of professional care.

In British Columbia, counselling costs with RCCs may be covered depending on your circumstances.

• Extended Health Benefits

Many insurance plans cover services from registered clinical counsellors. If you have an insurance provider, check with your insurer for coverage details. We are also happy to share that we can now direct bill to Pacific Blue Cross.

• Tax Deductions

You may claim counselling costs on your tax return as medical expenses, provided they are not reimbursed by insurance and you have a doctor’s referral.

• Indigenous Health Programs

Some of our counsellors are registered as Mental Health Providers with the First Nations Health Authority. Indigenous individuals may be able to access coverage through the FNHA for counselling services.

Please always confirm with your insurance provider or a tax professional for specifics.

Urgent Help

If you or someone else is experiencing an emergency or is in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital. While we offer support through counselling, we are not a crisis service and may not be available in urgent situations. Below are additional crisis resources you can access at any time.

• Vancouver Island Crisis Line

Call 1‑888‑494‑3888 anytime, or you can text 250-800-3806 (texting only available from 6 pm to 10 pm Pacific Time, seven days a week). They support people of all ages including folks from senior, youth, military, Indigenous, and LGBTQIA2S+ communities.

• Kids Help Phone

Call 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868. Both options are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to Canadians aged 5 to 29 who want confidential and anonymous care from trained responders.

• Suicide Crisis Help Line

If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 9-8-8. Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to everyone.