Julie Paquette: Counselling & Psychotherapy in Squamish
Down to earth counsellor with CBT-based approach, I offer services in French and English, in Squamish and online.
Frequently asked questions
+ What can be signs that me or someone I know should see a counsellor?
It is normal to want to fix problems on our own. However, if after trying different strategies we see that the problem remain or gets worse, then it is often time to take a new approach. Speaking to an objective professionnal, in confidentiality, can bring clarity and relief to a challenging time. Here are some specific signs to be aware of : a worsening of the situation, not feeling like yourself, trouble sleeping, experiencing strong emotions or feeling ‘numb’, low motivation, the problem takes all the attention or it impacts work/school/other people, avoidance, thinking of ending your life, using alcohol or drugs to cope.
+ What does a first meeting looks like?
Prior to our first meeting, there will be an intake form to fill out, as well as one about informed consent. When we meet, we will firstly discuss confidentiality and any questions you might have. Secondly, we will discuss the reasons that led you to see me and how you would like your situation to be different. Thirdly, I will ask general questions to start getting a portrait of yourself. We may also have time to clarify goals or set priorities. Finally, I might suggest a few actions for you to take until our next meeting.
+Is counselling covered by insurance providers? Are there other types of financial help to access counselling?
MSP does not cover Registered Clinical Counsellors at this time. Therefore, should you have another insurance provider, contact them directly to see if counselling services are covered. I provide the necessary information for you to make a claim directly to your provider in order to be reimbursed.
There are some local organisations in the Sea to Sky corridor offering subsidized counselling program that can help ease the financial cost of counselling. I am happy to share information on these if needed.
I can also offer lower rates on a case by case basis to individuals for whom the cost of counselling constitues a significant barrier. Feel free to contact me directly to discuss this.
+ How many meetings can I expect doing?
Typically, we can have between 4 to 8 weekly or bi-weekly meetings. This is the average number of meetings for people to start seeing the desired changes. It always varies from one person to the next. We may continue to meet regularly or decide to space out our sessions once people have achieved their goals. This is something we will be discussing together periodically and can adjust.
When doing Cognitive Processing Therapy, it is a more structured process that can last between 8 to 12 weekly meetings.
+ My child is coming to work with you. Does this mean that I will be doing counselling too?
When working with a youth, I can include parents in the process in some way, depending on the situation. We can take some time to discuss how the situation is evolving from the perspective of the parents or discuss questions/concerns parents may have. Also, strategies that are discussed with the youth can be shared with parents. Including parents may also mean that we have sessions with the whole family or only with parents. Whenever information is shared with parents, it is done while respecting confidentiality.