What can I expect in a counselling session?

We will talk about the primary concerns and issues in your life. A session is generally 1 hour in length. Some people who are in crises or extreme distress may need sessions more frequently. At times, you may be asked to take certain actions outside of the counselling sessions, such as reading a relevant book, journalling, or some other work we agree on.

How do you work with couples?

Depending on the situation, you will have the choice of working as a couple, or a combination of individual and couple counselling. We help couples in all stages of relationship, including pre-marital counselling, relationship coaching, parenting (including special needs children), infertility and adoption issues, sexual issues, crisis issues so on. We believe that being individually empowered in a relationship is very important; but not at the point of handicapping the couple's needs for connection and security. We will also help a couple through the unconscious patterns that may sabotage their very important desire to have a healthy relationship.

What kind of group therapy do you offer?

Riverbend will sometimes offer group therapy experiences. These groups can be short term or open ended. These groups are a combination of support and process group. Group therapy can often enhance your own personal process because of the added benefits of relating and interacting with others. Please contact us about current and future group therapy possibilities.

What benefits can I expect from working with a therapist?

Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Counselling can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. Many people find counselling to be a tremendous asset to managing personal growth, interpersonal relationships, family concerns, and the hassles of daily life. The benefits you obtain from counselling depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. Some of the benefits available from counselling include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values
• Developing skills for improving your relationships
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that lead you to seek counselling
• Find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety
• Manage anger, depression, and other emotional pressures
• Improving communications skills - learn how to listen to others, and have others listen to you.
• Getting "unstuck" from unhealthy patterns - breaking old behaviours and develop new ones
• Discovering new ways to solve problems.
• Improving your self-esteem and boosting self-confidence

What if I don't know what my goals are for counselling?

If you don't know what your goals are for counselling, your first task is to explore what your needs are. It may take several sessions before a direction is clarified. During the course of counselling your goals may change.

Is counselling confidential?

All communication between you and the counsellor is in strictest confidence and will not be released to anyone without written permission. Reports of physicians and insurance companies will not divulge personal material that has been given in confidence unless directed otherwise by the client. The only exception to confidentiality is the legal requirement to report circumstances wherein a client states an intention to harm self or others, and in cases of abuse.