Clarity Okanagan
What to Expect
Starting off on the Right Foot
A simple guide to getting started with Clarity Okanagan
STEP 1
Pick Your Therapist
Choosing a new therapist can be a daunting experience, both for someone new to therapy or for those who have seen counsellors in the past.
We believe that a good fit is one of the most important aspects to seeing progress in our time with clients.
This is why we have profiles on our site, and offer 30-minute consultation calls for new clients. Let us help you find your perfect therapist.
STEP 2
Book Your Appointment
Book with our easy-to-use booking software! Click to book your appointment then choose the following:
Your Therapist
Your Location
Your Time Availability
Click Book, And you’re ready to go!
Online or In-Person, You Choose.
We have therapists working both online and in-person. Choose the option that makes you feel most comfortable. We know these COVID-19 times are unpredictable and want to make you feel at home.
Can’t figure out the booking software? Emailing our Office Manager at hello@clarityokanagan.com or call our office at 250-300-6860 and we’ll get you sorted.
STEP 3
Appointment Confirmation
Once you are booked, Jane will email you to create an account and complete our intake forms.
STEP 4
Before your appointment
Ensure your Jane account has been set up, and your intake form(s) are completed.
Online Appointments
Jane will email you 30-minutes before the start time with a link to the video session.
We recommend bringing a notebook if you’d like, to write things down during a session
In-Person Appointments
We are located in the Landmark 6 building, on the 11th floor. Parking is available on street or in the parking lot across Dickson Ave.
Upon arrival, please head up to the 11th floor and let reception know you have an appointment with us.
If your appointment is after 5pm, you will need to wait in the downstairs lobby and your counsellor will come down to meet you a few minutes prior to your appointment start time.
STEP 5
Your First Appointment
The beginning of a first session is to go through some introductions, review any intake forms completed, and discuss the layout or scope of counselling.
Your counsellor will seek to understand what brought you to counselling, what you hope to gain from the experience, and determine what you might find most helpful in your work together. They can answer any questions you may have, or address any concerns or fears that might present themselves.
Near the end of the appointment, we may discuss scheduling future appointments and what method of payment you are most comfortable with.
STEP 6
Reflection
It may take time to trust the therapist. Don’t feel rushed to open up, but let it happen at its own pace. The first session does not commit you to working with that particular therapist. It is important to have a good ‘fit’ with your therapist for successful therapy. The first session will help you decide if the therapist’s approach and personality will work for you.
If you don’t feel comfortable, it may be best to try someone else. Remember, you may not like the first person you meet, but that doesn’t mean it’s a lost cause. You are always welcome to schedule a first session with another counsellor, or book a 30-minute consultation with someone else to find a better fit.
FAQ
What if I really hate it?
This is absolutely possible, and can occur for a few reasons.
It might be that the counsellor-client fit isn’t “just right”, in which case it’s important to find someone who IS a good fit. If this is the case, you can speak with the counsellor directly, or connect with our office manager at hello@clarityokanagan.com or 250-300-6860.
It could also be because counselling is hard work. It’s not a comfortable experience in some cases, but is exceptionally rewarding when you stick with it. Some sessions are going to feel easier than others, this is normal. Change is hard work, too. It’s very human to want to avoid discomfort.
Try not to cancel or no-show. We are trained to have these conversations with clients, even ones that feel uncomfortable. If you have questions or concerns, we welcome that discussion with you. We promise it is worth it.
How do I book?
Go here!
How do I pick a counsellor?
Learn about our counsellors here, or email us directly, and we’ll pair you with one!
Does online counselling work?
Research shows (especially in current pandemic-times) that online counselling options can be just as helpful and meaningful as in-person sessions. If you are hesitant, that is fine! We do recommend trying it if your counsellor only has online options; if you hate it, we can discuss our alternative options from there.