Question 1

What kind of services or support do you offer?

Accepted Answer

I provide support to individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, and adjusting to life changes or stressors. Especially if you're new to Canada, I can help you adjust to life as a new immigrant. I also offer couples therapy to those going through a rough patch or trying to build a stronger bond.

Question 2

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way is to follow this link to book your appointment. You can also use the contact form on this website, email: info@tomoumcounselling.com, or call/text/WhatsApp: (604) 800-5154.

Question 3

What is your approach/modality?

Accepted Answer

I incorporate evidence-based approaches that are backed up by research such as cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and acceptance-commitment therapy (ACT). I use the Gottman Method for couples therapy, which integrates research-based interventions based on the Sound Relationship House Theory with the aim of fostering better communication, understanding, and intimacy within your relationship. I'm a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist with expertise working with trauma, affairs, conflict management, and multicultural couples.

Question 4

How much do you charge per session?

Accepted Answer

- I offer a FREE Phone/Video Consultation [15 minutes]
- Individual Sessions [60 minutes] = $225
- Couples Therapy [60 minutes] = $270

P.S: Longer sessions are available to book. Please visit the "Services" page for a complete list of services and fee range. You can also check them directly through the online booking page.

Question 5

Do you offer sliding scale options?

Accepted Answer

Sliding scale options are limited and subject to availability. At the moment, all designated slots for sliding scale have been filled.

Question 6

Will my insurance cover your services/fees?

Accepted Answer

Canadian Certified Counsellors and Registered Clinical Counsellors are covered by most Extended Health Care plans. You will receive an invoice with all the details you need for reimbursement. Please check and confirm with your group plan (Ex: Sunlife, Canada Life, Pacific Blue Cross, etc.) regarding the details of your coverage.

Question 7

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

While we wish otherwise, there is actually no magic number for the time needed to recover. Each person's needs are unique because it depends on their story. I've had clients who only needed 1 or 2 sessions to gain clarity on a specific issue, and there are others who need years to fully integrate with their "new self."

That being said, it is common to need an average of 12 sessions before noticing "meaningful" difference. And the most important thing is your commitment to your mental health.

Question 8

What is considered therapy, counselling, or psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

The terms "therapy," "counselling," and "psychotherapy" are often used interchangeably to refer to the process through which a mental health professional provides support to an individual in order resolve inner, interpersonal, or relationship conflicts. This is done through what we call "talk therapy" - which is an exchange of conversation between the mental health professional and the individual with the purpose of resolving these conflicts.

Question 9

What is the difference between a therapist, a counsellor, a psychologist, and a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

A therapist is very general term or umbrella for metal health professionals who engage in talk therapy. 
​
A counsellor/psychotherapist is often referred to someone who has obtained a masters-level degree in counselling, psychology, or other related fields (like social work). Please refer to the  question on registrations, certifications, and designations (like RCC and CCC) for more information.

A psychologist is someone who has obtained a doctoral degree in psychology (like a PhD or PsyD in Clinical Psychology). In British Columbia, they often work under the title "Registered Psychologist" if they're registered with the College of Psychologists of British Columbia.

A psychiatrist is someone who has obtained a medical degree and specializes in psychiatry. These are the only mental health professionals authorized to prescribe medication.

Question 10

How does Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) help with depression & anxiety?

Accepted Answer

CBT is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and deeper core beliefs contributing to depression and anxiety. We also recognize, understand and address unhealthy patterns and behaviors and learn to adapt better coping strategies. CBT is among the most effective modalities because its change is long-lasting and long term. Using CBT, we learn to break these patterns and rebuild a healthier, more constructive belief system - from the roots, up. Clients, then, are better equipped to manage their anxiety more effectively and improve their overall well-being.

Question 11

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Accepted Answer

ACT is a mindfulness-based therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty about them. It helps clients identify the values that matter to them the most and develop a plan to commit to actions that align with these values and give them a better sense of purpose, meaning and fulfillment in life.

It is a very good companion to CBT and has proven to be very effective when integrated in our CBT work. Read more about that in my blog.

Question 12

What is the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy?

Accepted Answer

The Gottman Method is a research-based approach designed to improve communication, understanding, and intimacy in relationships. It uses practical tools and exercises to help couples build stronger connections and resolve conflicts constructively.

What I love most about the Gottman Method is that it's tailored for people who have had zero experience or involvement with therapy as well as people who have done a lot of that inner work and know the lingo. In all cases, it offers you a simple step-by-step guides that will hold your hands as you embark on that new journey, and it will also help you get to that depth and emotional connection you're longing for with your partner.

Question 13

What are the benefits of culturally competent therapy?

Accepted Answer

Culturally competent therapy acknowledges and respects the diverse backgrounds of clients, ensuring that therapy is tailored to their unique cultural experiences. This approach fosters an understanding that it's not a one-size-fits all and respects that the ideology and value system belongs to and is set by the client. This helps develop better understanding, trust, and effective communication, leading to more meaningful and impactful therapeutic outcomes that is more aligned with the client's values rather than dictated by mainstream ideologies.

Question 14

Can therapy help with adjusting to life as a new immigrant?

Accepted Answer

Yes, therapy can provide valuable support for new immigrants by addressing challenges such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, and feelings of isolation. A culturally sensitive therapist can help clients navigate these challenges and build a fulfilling life in their new environment.

Question 15

What differentiates a counsellor with RCC/CCC designation from those without?

Accepted Answer

Currently, psychotherapy is still in the process of being regulated in British Columbia, so technically and legally speaking, the term "counsellor" or "psychotherapist" can be used by anyone. However, the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) and  the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) have set forth certain educational and clinical standards and credentials that individuals need to meet in order to obtain the RCC (Registered Clinical Counsellor) or CCC (Canadian Certified Counsellor) designation.

Choosing a counsellor with a designation of RCC or CCC provides reassurance to individuals seeking help that the counsellor they chose to confide to are experienced, qualified, and trustworthy who follow the professional and ethical standards set forth by their corresponding body.  This includes a minimum of a masters degree in psychology (or a related field) that adheres to certain educaitonal standards and requirements and a minimum number of supervised clinical work during and post graudation.

Question 16

What is your privacy policy?

Accepted Answer

You can view the privacy policy here.

FAQ