Question 1

What’s a first session like? What should I expect?

Accepted Answer

The first session is really just a chance to get to know each other. You don’t need to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say — we’ll take it slow. We’ll talk about what’s been coming up for you, what you’re hoping for from therapy, and what support might look like for you. There's no pressure to share more than you're ready to. We'll move at your pace.

Question 2

Do you offer in-person or virtual sessions?

Accepted Answer

We offer secure virtual sessions throughout British Columbia, as well as in-person appointments in Vancouver. We'll help you choose the option that best fits your needs.

Question 3

How long are sessions? And how often would we meet?

Accepted Answer

Session lengths vary depending on the service. Individual counselling is typically 50 minutes. Couples, relationship counselling, EMDR, and clinical supervision may also be offered in longer formats. We'll discuss the option that's the best fit for your needs.

Question 4

What kind of therapy do you use? What’s your approach?

Accepted Answer

Our work is grounded in being relational, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive. We draw from a few different approaches depending on your needs:Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), especially for couplesNarrative and feminist therapies, to explore identity, meaning, and powerTools from ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and DBT, for practical supportEMDR, for processing trauma or emotionally stuck experiencesAt the core, we believe healing happens in relationship — with ourselves, with others, and within the systems that shape our lives.

Question 5

What is EMDR, and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

EMDR is a therapy that helps you process distressing experiences that might feel “frozen” or overwhelming.  EMDR begins with preparation and stabilization. Not every session involves trauma processing, and we'll work at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.You don’t have to talk through every detail — it’s more about helping your brain and body release the stuckness. You stay fully in control throughout, and we always prioritize safety, grounding, and pacing.

Question 6

What happens in couples or relationship therapy?

Accepted Answer

Relationship therapy is a space to slow down and reconnect. We look at the patterns that keep coming up — especially the ones that leave you feeling stuck or misunderstood. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and tools from the Gottman Method, we help you make sense of what’s happening underneath conflict — usually unmet needs for safety, closeness, or being heard — and build new ways of showing up for each other. We also support couples navigating betrayal, emotional disconnection, life transitions, and differences related to culture, neurodivergence, or intimacy.

Question 7

Do you work with LGBTQ+, immigrant, or racialized clients?

Accepted Answer

Yes — this practice is deeply rooted in being anti-oppressive, decolonial, and inclusive. We work with people across many identities and experiences — queer, trans, racialized, neurodivergent, immigrant, multilingual, and more. Sessions can be held in English or Spanish, and we hold space for how your story is shaped by larger histories and systems.

Question 8

Do you offer lower-cost or sliding scale spots?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do have a limited number of sliding scale spots available. We believe therapy should be as accessible as possible. Feel free to mention your situation during the free consultation, and we’ll see what options might work.

Question 9

How do payments and insurance work?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due at the time of the session — we accept e-transfer and credit card. We’ll send you a receipt you can submit to your insurance if your plan covers sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC).

Question 10

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

Accepted Answer

We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or move a session. Late cancellations (less than 48 hours) are charged the full fee, since that time was set aside for you. Of course, if something urgent comes up — like an emergency or sudden illness — we’ll handle it with care.

Question 11

Is therapy confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. What you share in counselling is private and confidential, and protecting your privacy is an important part of our work together.There are, however, a few situations where confidentiality may be limited. These include when:there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to you or someone else;there is a legal obligation to report concerns, such as suspected child abuse or neglect;your records are required by a valid court order or other legal process;you provide your informed consent for information to be shared; orconsultation or clinical supervision is needed to support your care. In these situations, identifying information is shared only when necessary and with respect for your privacy.If questions about confidentiality arise at any point, we're happy to discuss them with you.

Question 12

Can I talk to someone before committing to therapy?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We offer a free 20-minute consultation so you can ask questions, learn more about how we work, and see if we feel like a good fit — no pressure at all.

Question 13

What if I’m in crisis or need immediate help?

Accepted Answer

If you’re in danger or experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to:911988BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (no area code needed)Kuu-us Crisis Line (for Indigenous clients): 1-800-588-8717We’re not a crisis service, but we can support you in finding long-term care once you’re safe.

Question 14

Do you work with children or teens?

Accepted Answer

Right now, we mostly work with adults and couples. If you're looking for therapy for a child or youth, we’re happy to refer you to trusted practitioners in our network.

Question 15

I’m ready to start — what’s the next step?

Accepted Answer

The first step is simply booking a free 20-minute consultation. We'll answer your questions, help you choose the service or therapist that's the best fit, and talk about what comes next—without any pressure or obligation.

Question 16

Do you offer therapy in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Both Carolina and Hollman offer counselling in English and Spanish.

Question 17

How do I know which therapist is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Finding the right therapist is an important part of the process, and it's okay if you're not sure where to start.Both Carolina and Hollman provide warm, relational, and trauma-informed care, but each brings different areas of focus and expertise.Carolina primarily works with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, life transitions, identity, grief, burnout, migration, and women's experiences. She also offers EMDR and clinical supervision.Hollman primarily works with couples and relationships, including communication difficulties, conflict, betrayal and trust repair, intimacy concerns, intercultural relationships, and neurodivergent relationships. He also works with individuals exploring relationships, identity, and emotional well-being.If you're unsure who would be the best fit, we'd be happy to discuss your needs during a free 20-minute consultation and help you find the therapist that's right for you.

Question 18

Can I switch therapists?

Accepted Answer

Simple answer.Yes.Sometimes another therapist may be a better fit, and we'll support that transition whenever possible.

Frequently asked questions