When searching for a counsellor one might consider some or all of the following questions
How to Select the Best Counselor / Counsellor?
Helpful tips to select your counsellor
How many years of experience does the counsellor offer
When did she/he graduate?
- Counsellors with less than five years of experience in the profession are considered new to the profession. Counsellors should have supervision in multiple settings prior to being effective in private practice. This position is usually adopted by very experienced counsellors later in a counselling career.
- If new to the profession will the counsellor recognize serious concerns and provide an appropriate response?
- If new, do they have on-going clinical supervision from an experienced counselor?
Does your prospect Counsellor holds a Master Degree from a recognized Degree Granting Institution/University?
There are many differences among counsellor’s training. Some Diploma granting institutions will issue some training certificates. It may complicate a claim your expenses with your Extended Health Benefits provider thereafter. It is usually recommended to verify with your Insurance provider what type of credentials they are requiring your therapist prior the engage expenses.
What did she/he study as an undergraduate?
Was it psychology or a counselling related profession?
- Master of Education, Counselling programs accepts persons from any undergraduate degree: such as geography, philosophy, etc.
Does the counsellor belong to a professional designation (registration with a professional body)?
how long since registration?
- BCACC – British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors offers the designation RCC
What did she/he study as an undergraduate?
Was it psychology or a counselling related profession?
Does the counsellor work full time in another related profession, such as teaching or nursing?
- Will the Counsellor have enough time and energy to provide a dedicated service?
- Will the Counsellor quit private practice when they realize they work too many hours per week? Where will that leave you as a client?
- How many hours in a work week with a full-time job as well as a private practice? Will the Counsellor be rested and effective?
Is a resume, CV or LinkedIn Profile provided that is consistent with a full time Clinical Counsellor?
*This is where you will be able to determine the background and experience of the Counsellor.
Sliding scale or reduced rates for counseling services?
Why would the rate need to be reduced or discounted? This may indicate a reduction in the quality of the service.
