FAQ

Some signs that you may benefit from counselling or psychotherapy include: Feeling sad, anxious, or hopeless for an extended period. Experiencing significant changes in your mood or behavior. Having difficulty managing stress or coping with complex life events.

Above all, you should expect a therapeutic environment that is compassionate, empathetic, and safe. A therapist or counselor’s role is to offer you insights into your experiences, advice on how to handle issues, and evidence-based treatment for mental health conditions.

Yes, what you share is truly confidential, with a few exceptions:

If you share with your therapist that you are going to hurt yourself, that you are going to hurt someone else, if there is any child abuse, or if there is any elder abuse. These four things your therapist legally has to report.

A rare exception to confidentiality is if a therapist’s records are subpoenaed by an attorney or a court of law. Your therapist will generally assert privilege on the client’s behalf, though ultimately the final say goes to the court of law should they reject assertion of privilege.

If you choose to use your health insurance to help pay for psychotherapy, your therapist will submit a claim for reimbursement, which will include a diagnostic code. Additionally, per contract stipulations, insurance companies reserve the right to audit a client’s chart (verbally or through submission of records) to ensure proper services are being delivered and further treatment is indicated.

Some examples are:
Individuals with mental health conditions and/or substance use disorders: Peer support provides a space for these individuals to connect with others who understand their experiences, offer empathy, and share coping strategies for managing their conditions.
Families and caregivers: Family peer support services empower and inform families caring for loved ones with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring behavioral health disorders. They assist with understanding and accessing systems, treatment, and recovery supports, and provide information about resources. 
Veterans: Programs like Operation Peer Support (OPS) specifically target veterans, some of whom are dealing with significant challenges like PTSD and visual impairment related to their service.
Survivors of trauma: Peer support helps survivors of trauma, such as refugees or those who have experienced domestic violence, to cope and rebuild their lives.
Those navigating the criminal justice system, child welfare system, or seeking support for homelessness: Peer support workers are employed in a variety of settings, including these areas, to provide assistance and connect individuals with resources.