Frequently Asked Questions
GENERAL
+ Do I need to book a complimentary consultation?
Working with a Vancouver Therapist involves being vulnerable and sharing parts of yourself that you may have been holding close for a very long time. A consultation will give you a sense of what working with us will be like and whether you feel we ‘click’. In this work connection and relationship are an important part of the process and this is a risk free way for us to get a feel for each other.
+ Do you offer online or in person sessions?
We offer both online sessions to Counselling clients as well as in-person Counsellors sessions. You can book online sessions through our booking system or by emailing me. For in-person sessions, email natasha@digdeepcounselling to arrange a time.
+ What are your credentials as a Vancouver Therapist?
I have both academic and life credentials. I hold a PhD in Psychology and a M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. I also have two kids, teach at university, have a husband, my own goals and desires, and try and balance all the different aspects of my life. Both the academic training and life experiences give me a unique perspective from which to work with you.
+ Can I reschedule my counselling, RTT Hypnotherapy or Breathwork session?
Yes! You can reschedule your appointment online upto 24 hours in advance. Please contact us directly for anything less than 24 hours.
+ Is what I share with my therapist confidential?
As per the ethical guidelines of the profession and our own integrity, anything we talk about in session is confidential; exceptions as required by law are outlined in the consent to counselling/coaching form sent to you upon booking. Not only do we not discuss the content of our sessions with others, if someone calls and asks if you have attended therapy/coaching or if you are a client, we will not confirm those details unless otherwise agreed upon in writing. Trust is important in our work together and we do our best to honor that.
+ Is online therapy as effective as in person?
Online counselling has become more common in recent years and more so with all the changes due to the Covid-19 crisis. Research has consistently shown that online therapy can be just as effective as an in-person session - the relationship and trust you have with your therapist is the most important factor in the effectiveness of therapy whether it is online or in-person. It is also a wonderful option for people living in rural areas, those who have transportation difficulties, are working on social anxiety or don't want to spend the time commuting to and from an office.
INDIVIDUAL COUNSELLING
+ What does a counselling session look like?
At the beginning of each counselling session you will be asked what you would like to discuss. As we explore your situation I may gently challenge some ideas or beliefs you hold, as well as offer homework and interventions, but always working at a pace that you are comfortable with. I will check in with you to make sure we are focussing on your concerns and making progress in how you are feeling about yourself and the work we are doing. Some clients like to book weekly, others bi-weekly or once a month. The time and pace will depend on what works for you and this is a discussion that we can have together.
+ What if I feel like counselling isn’t working?
If you feel that you are not making progress or that something doesn’t feel right, this is something that we can (and should) talk about. Perhaps I’ve misunderstood something or maybe we aren’t a good fit. If this is the case we can talk about it and make a plan to either change the way we work together or I will help you find a different therapist who can better suit your needs. This does not need to be an awkward conversation and can be good practice in asking for what you need.
+ What are your credentials as a Vancouver therapist?
I have both academic and life credentials. I hold a PhD in Psychology and a M.Ed. in Counselling Psychology. I also have two kids, teach at university, have a husband, my own goals and desires, and try and balance all the different aspects of my life. Both the academic training and life experiences give me a unique perspective from which to work with you.
RTT HYPNOTHERAPY
+ What does a RTT Hypnotherapy session look like?
RTT Hypnotherapy Vancouver is done over 21 days. The first day will be your RTT Hypnotherapy session for about 2 hours, followed by two check-ins and a bespoke recording that you will listen to for 21 days to set the foundations for your transformation. You can also email me in between if you are having challenges or have any questions.
+ Can Hypnotherapy make me do things against my will or reveal secrets?
No, hypnotherapy cannot make you do anything against your will or reveal personal secrets. You maintain control and can reject any suggestions that make you uncomfortable. Hypnotherapy empowers individuals and helps access inner resources.
+ How many sessions are usually required?
RTT Hypnotherapy delivers results quickly. Typically, clients achieve their goals or find significant relief from their problems in just one session. A session of RTT Hypnotherapy includes a 2 hour hypnotherapy session, two follow up appointments and one bespoke recording based on the work we do together in session. This is much quicker than traditional hypnotherapy or talk therapy, which may require extended treatment.
+ Can anyone be hypnotized?
Hypnosis, or being in a trance state, is a natural experience that we encounter in everyday life. In a clinical setting, most individuals can be hypnotized to some degree. Factors like openness, willingness, and rapport influence the success of the session. However, hypnosis cannot be imposed on someone against their will, and some individuals may be less responsive due to certain conditions.
BREATHWORK
+ What is Conscious Connected Breathwork?
Conscious Connected Breathwork, also known as breathwork meditation, is a powerful technique that involves conscious, intentional breathing to facilitate self-awareness, emotional release, and personal transformation.
+ What are the benefits of Conscious Connected Breathwork?
This modality offers a wide range of benefits that can positively impact various aspects of our lives. One of the primary benefits is its ability to promote emotional well-being and reduce stress. Through focused and intentional breathing, this practice activates the body's relaxation response, leading to a decrease in stress hormones and an increase in feelings of calmness and serenity.
+ How do I prepare for a session?
If your session is online, it is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for yourself. Find a quiet space where you can relax without interruptions. You can lay down or be semi reclined. We will connect on Zoom for our session and I will guide you from there. For an in person session, everything will be set up for you. We ask that for either session you come in sober, hydrated and not have used substances in the last 24 hours – this will ensure the best results and impact from your session.
+ Is breathwork safe?
Yes, research studies show breathwork to be safe. However, it can sometimes trigger emotional release or bring up intense emotions that may feel uncomfortable.
APPOINTMENTS
+ Do you have a counselling office?
We offer online sessions to Counselling clients throughout BC, as well as in-person Counsellors sessions for those living in Vancouver, North Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland area. We also offer walk and talk therapy and in-person coaching to clients willing to travel to the downtown Vancouver area. Learn more in our COVID-19 Update.
+ Can I reschedule my counselling appointment?
Yes! You can reschedule your appointment online upto 24 hours in advance. Please contact us directly for anything less than 24 hours.
+ What should I expect at my first therapy session?
Before our session I will send you a consent to counselling form and we will go over it at the beginning of our first session. After that we will discuss what has brought you to counselling in more detail and find out what is important to you as we move forward in our work together.
PAYMENT
+ How can I pay for my session?
You can pay online at the time of booking with a credit card. If this option is not available to you, please contact us directly for other options.
If you are an FNHA client, no payment is required as we bill directly to FNHA.
+ What is a cancellation/refund policy?
We totally get it, life happens! If you need to cancel an appointment, we ask that you contact us directly through email or a phone call. 24 hours notice is required for a no penalty cancellation. No shows are billed for 100% of their session fee.
+ Will my insurance cover the cost?
Many extended benefits plans will cover all or a portion of a counselling session with a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Natasha's RCC number is #17112 and she is a member in good standing. Natasha doesn’t bill directly to your insurance company, instead, you will receive an email with a receipt upon payment with all the necessary information to claim your sessions.
Still Curious?
Get in touch with us.