Formerly Lauren Shay Counselling – Explanation

Accepting New Clients – Leia: No | Darci: Yes

professional mental health services

FAQ

We understand that starting counselling or exploring therapy options can bring up many questions.

Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Leia Shay Counselling and our services.

Illustration of a psychedelic integration therapy session at Leia Shay Counselling in Vancouver.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Are you currently accepting new clients?

Please see the banner at the top of the homepage to see which of our counsellors are currently accepting new clients. If you’re interested, we encourage you to book a free 20-minute consultation to see if we’re a good fit.

The first step is to schedule a free 20-minute consultation, either in person or virtually. During this consultation, you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions, share a bit about what you’re looking for, and decide if working together feels right. If we’re a good fit, we’ll move forward with booking your first full session.

The process for couples counselling begins with a consultation, just like individual therapy. Additionally, I ask each partner to complete an online relationship assessment and come in for one individual session before we begin couples counselling. This helps us understand each partner’s needs and set the foundation for productive work together.

Yes, your confidentiality is of the utmost importance. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and Registered Social Worker (RSW), I am professionally bound by ethical guidelines to keep all information confidential.

The only exceptions are:

  • If you disclose imminent harm to yourself or others.
  • If there is a disclosure of abuse of a vulnerable person (such as a child or elderly person).
  • If a court subpoena requires the release of records.
  • Outside of these situations, no information will be shared without your informed, written consent.

We require 24 hours notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. If less than 24 hours notice is given or the session is missed, you will be charged the session fee. Payment for missed or late-canceled sessions is due before your next appointment.

Many extended health plans cover services provided by a Registered Social Worker (RSW) or a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). Since I hold both designations, there’s a good chance that your plan will cover some or all of your sessions. Please check with your HR department or insurance provider to confirm your coverage. You’ll pay for your session upfront, and I will provide an official receipt for you to submit to your insurance for reimbursement.

Leia Shay Counselling is an approved provider with the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA). FNHA clients can access free counselling services under several health benefit programs.

To confirm your eligibility, call the FNHA Health Benefits line at 1-855-550-5454 or visit fnha.ca/benefits. Please note that FNHA does not cover missed appointments or late cancellations, and these fees will be the responsibility of the client.

Yes, both. I mostly work in-person, however I offer virtual sessions in case of illness or occasional travel.

I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the BC College of Social Workers. I have a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of British Columbia and have also received advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Narrative Therapy, Somatic Therapy, The Gottman Method, Sex Therapy, and Sexual Health Education.

Email: Send an email to info@laurenshay.ca with your preferred dates and times.

Online Booking: Click here to book your session online (for current clients only)

We offer both in-person and virtual sessions for your convenience.