Frequently Asked Questions

In British Columbia, the main difference between Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC) and Registered Psychologists (RPsych) is the highest university degree achieved, and the scope of practice of each profession. Both designations require a minimum of a Master’s degree, and both designations are bound to a strict code of ethics through their respective regulatory bodies.

RPsychs in BC have obtained a doctorate (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, during which time they have learned more about research methods, and have typically dedicated significant time to conducting their own research. RPsychs have also undergone extensive training in psychometrics, and are qualified to conduct assessments and provide formal diagnoses. Both RCCs and RPsychs are equally qualified to provide counselling and psychotherapy services.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs) with a specialization in psychiatry; they are licensed to prescribe medication as well as perform assessments. Psychiatrists work in a variety of settings: acute inpatient and outpatient care at hospitals or clinics, as well as residential treatment centres and fee-for-service practices.

All of our counsellors follow the BCACC rule of confidentiality and your matters are 100% confidential.

However and by law, there are just a few exceptions to this strict confidentiality:
• When there is an imminent risk of you harming yourself or others
• When there is suspicion or disclosure of abuse/neglect of a child
• When client records are subpoenaed by court order

All reasonable efforts will be made to discuss these circumstances with you prior to the involvement of other professionals.

Fees are based on the type and length of the session. Our fees and rates for each service are located on each counselling section’s pages. Payment is processed at the end of each session in the form of debit/credit, or cash.

Our rates go by the BCACC fee schedule guidelines.

We require a 24-hour notice for cancellation/rescheduling of appointments, otherwise, the full session fee will be charged. This applies to missed sessions also. Please note that this policy is based on fairness to you, your therapist, and other clients needing appointments. We appreciate your understanding.

Yes! We provide direct billing services. By handling the insurance process on your behalf, we ensure that accessing mental health support is as stress-free and simple as possible.

We also provide direct billing services for ICBC and CVAP clients. Please connect with your counsellor for more information.

At CMCC we have taken active measures to reduce the possibility of COVID-19 transmission within our clinic.

Some of these measures include:
• Maintaining appropriate physical distancing
• Asking clients to avoid arriving early for their appointment time
• Frequent disinfecting of high-touch surfaces
• Providing all clients with hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
• Requiring clients to switch to virtual or reschedule if they are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19
• Discontinuing the exchange of physical documents
• Utilizing contactless payment options
• Only asking all clients to sign a COVID-19 checklist/ agreement during intake

If you have any further questions about our COVID-19 policies please reach out and we will be happy to help.

It really depends on many factors. Some clients are able to get results within 5-6 sessions, but most clients attend 10 sessions or more before they see significant changes. Often people will come for sessions more regularly at the beginning, then when they find better coping and some relief from their difficulties they may come in once in a while for some extra support.

At CMCC, we understand that finding the right therapist isn’t always easy. Therefore we invite you to start your counselling process with a complimentary free 15-minute consultation.

During your consultation, you will learn more about the counselling process and have an opportunity to ask any questions that you may have before starting. It is obligation free, and if for any reason it’s not a good fit, we will do our best to connect you with another therapist.

If you would prefer to start with an actual counselling session, please head over to our online booking system to book your first appointment.