How Counselling Sessions Work
In-Person & Virtual Therapy in Nanaimo, BC

A lot of people have questions about how counselling sessions actually work — especially if they've never been before.

Does it just involve talking? Is there homework? How long until things improve? What happens virtually versus in-person?

This guide answers those questions clearly and honestly, so you know what to expect before you begin.

How Long Are Counselling Sessions?

Individual counselling sessions at Rediscovered Purpose are 50 minutes. This is the standard length for one-on-one therapy and gives enough time to go deep without becoming overwhelming.

A shorter half-session option (25 minutes, $90) is also available for individuals who want a focused check-in, are working on a specific skill, or are building up gradually. Half-sessions are available for individual counselling only.

Couples and family sessions are also 50 minutes.

What Happens During a Typical Session?

Every session is different depending on where you are in the process, but most sessions follow a natural flow:

• Check-in — We start by catching up on how you've been since the last session. What came up? What shifted? What felt hard?
• Focus — We identify what to work on today. Sometimes this is planned in advance; other times it's shaped by what's most present for you right now.
• Exploration — We dig into the topic together using evidence-based approaches suited to your goals — whether that's CBT, narrative therapy, EMI, mindfulness-based techniques, or a combination.
• Integration — We close the session by summarizing key insights, naming what felt important, and identifying any practical steps or reflections to carry forward.

Sessions are structured but not rigid. You are always welcome to redirect, slow down, or shift focus.

What Approaches Are Used?

Counselling at Rediscovered Purpose draws from several evidence-based modalities depending on your needs:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) — for anxiety, depression, and changing unhelpful thought patterns
• Narrative Therapy — for reframing your story and reclaiming your identity
• EMI (Eye Movement Integration) — for processing trauma and distressing memories. See What is EMI Therapy?
• Mindfulness-Based Approaches — for nervous system regulation and anxiety
• Emotion-Focused Techniques — for understanding and working with your emotional responses

The approach is always tailored to you — not a one-size-fits-all formula.

How Does Virtual Counselling Work?

Virtual counselling in BC is exactly as effective as in-person therapy — and for many people, it's more accessible and more comfortable.

Here's how it works:

• You book your session online through Jane App
• You receive a secure video link before your appointment
• At session time, you click the link from any device — phone, tablet, or computer
• The session runs just like an in-person appointment, over a private and encrypted video connection

Virtual sessions are available to anyone in British Columbia — whether you're in Nanaimo, Victoria, Vancouver, Campbell River, or a rural community across the island or province.

How Often Should You Attend Counselling?

Most people start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions. This consistency helps build momentum and gives you time to apply what you're working on between appointments.

As things improve, many clients move to monthly sessions for ongoing support and maintenance.

There is no set number of sessions required. Some people see meaningful change in 6–8 sessions. Others prefer longer-term support. You're always in control of the pace.

How Do You Know If Counselling is Working?

Progress in counselling doesn't always feel linear. Some sessions feel transformative; others feel quieter. Both are part of the process.

Signs that counselling is working often include:

• Feeling more clarity about what you're experiencing
• Noticing small but consistent shifts in how you respond to stress
• Improved sleep, mood, or energy
• Feeling more in control and less overwhelmed
• Relationships beginning to feel easier

We check in regularly about how things are going, and adjust the approach if needed.

Is What I Share Confidential?

Yes — everything shared in sessions is strictly confidential. As a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) registered with the CCPA, I follow a professional code of ethics around privacy and confidentiality.

The only exceptions involve situations of imminent risk of harm — and these limits are always explained clearly at the start of our work together. Full details are in the Privacy Policy.

Is Counselling Covered by Insurance?

Many extended health benefit plans in BC cover counselling with a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). I offer direct billing to Pacific Blue Cross, Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life, Green Shield, and other providers.

If your counselling is related to a motor vehicle accident, ICBC direct billing may also be available. Call your insurer to confirm your coverage before your first session.

In-Person Sessions in Nanaimo & Virtual Sessions Across BC

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