Rate Increase Effective July 1, 2024 | Standard Session $135, Extended Session $200

FAQs

It’s normal to have lots of questions on your journey. Below I’ve answered some common ones, and you can always contact me for more info.

  • What can I expect during my first counselling session?

    I’ve put together a quick article to give you an idea of the different steps we will go through during your first session at Tanglewood.

    Check it out here: What can I expect at my first counselling session?

  • How often do we meet?

    Weekly sessions are the most common, but this can vary by need.

    Ultimately the frequency of our sessions is up to you, your needs, and your schedule.

  • How long will I be in counselling?

    The length of time you are in counselling depends on many factors. Your goals, your availability, and the depth of the work you want to do all need to be considered.

    Part of the counselling process includes discussing these factors in order to determine a timeline.

  • How will I know counselling is working for me?

    Before we can measure success, we first need to define what a successful outcome looks like for you.

    When we begin, part of the process includes setting goals and milestones to determine how we can best measure success for your needs.

  • Are counselling sessions confidential?

    Yes. What you say in counselling stays in counselling.

    However, there are some exceptions to confidentiality that I must act on legally should they arise. Please see my Counselling & Confidentiality page for details.

  • Do you offer couples counselling?

    No. I work only with individuals in a 1-on-1 setting. Counselling sessions are offered in-person, or remotely by phone or video chat.

  • Do you offer counselling for children or adolescents?

    I work with youth who are classified as “mature minors.” This means I have assessed them as being mature enough to make their own decisions. Generally speaking, that is around age 14.

    Details can be found here on the BCACC website.

  • Can I book on evenings or weekends?

    I offer evening hours Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. You can book a time yourself through the booking portal or contact me to request specific evening hours.

  • How many counsellors practice at Tanglewood?

    It’s just me, Dee-Anne Doak. I’m the owner and the solo counsellor here at Tanglewood Counselling.

    You can learn more about my background and values on my biography page.

  • What are your professional qualifications?

    I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors, hold a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and earned a Bachelor of Social Work from the University of Victoria.

    If you’d like to learn more about my qualifications and professional accreditations, please visit my bio page.

  • What is your style or approach towards counselling?

    I consider my approach to counselling as ‘eclectic’ or ‘integrative’. Each client receives an individual treatment plan, chosen from the most appropriate methodology (or combination of methodologies).

    I employ a client-centred style, seeing myself as a guide or companion to walk alongside you. My goal is to provide authentic, warm, and caring service.

    Head over to this article to learn more about Tanglewood’s style.

  • What issues can Tanglewood help me work through?

    I am here to help you work through any emotion or thought-cycle that has you feeling tangled up. Nothing is off limits.

    To learn about the most common issues I help with, head over to the main counselling services page.

  • Why the name ‘Tanglewood’?

    Tanglewood is a business name my parents used years ago. I chose to continue using the name as an homage to them.

    Trees are also a great metaphor for counselling, and growth in general. There’s the family tree, and the tree of life. The way the condition of the tree roots affect what we see above ground.

    The Tangle in Tanglewood was a lucky coincidence – or perhaps kismet. In any case, I’m here to help you untangle your tangled-up thoughts!

  • Where do counselling sessions take place?

    In-person counselling sessions take place at my Nanaimo-based office, located at 1331 Langara Drive in Nanaimo, BC (by appointment only).

    Telehealth counselling is also available by phone and through secure online video conference tools.

  • Can you provide counselling sessions at my home?

    No, however online and telephone counselling is available. Telehealth allows you to engage in my counselling services from the comfort of your own home – or anywhere, really!

    In-person counselling sessions are only offered at my private Nanaimo office, located at 1331 Langara Drive (by appointment only).

  • Is your office wheelchair accessible?

    Unfortunately not. However, telephone and online counselling services are also available so you can connect from the comfort of your home.

  • How much do counselling sessions cost?

    You’ll find complete details on pricing and appointment options on my rates page. Counselling services are priced based on recommendations set by the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

  • What payment methods do you accept?

    I accept payment by e-Transfer or cash.

  • When is payment due?

    Payment is due at the end of each counselling session, but you are welcome to pay in advance.

  • Will insurance cover the cost of my session?

    Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan and provider. You are responsible for understanding your counselling/therapy coverage before booking.

    I do not offer direct billing. I will provide you with a receipt for services that you can submit for reimbursement through your insurance plan.

  • What is your cancellation policy?

    I ask that you cancel at least 24 hours before your appointment. Otherwise you will be charged the full rate of your session.

    There is also some flexibility for cancelling due to health-related issues.

  • Are you registered with the CVAP program?

    Yes. I am registered with BC’s Crime Victim Assistance Program (CVAP). If you are accepted for counselling coverage through them, I would be happy to work with you and bill directly to CVAP.

  • Does Tanglewood provide emergency services?

    No: Tanglewood’s counselling services are by appointment only.

    If you require immediate support and you’re located on Vancouver Island, the Vancouver Island Crisis Line is available 24/7 at 1-888-494-3888.

    If you are in a situation that involves an immediate risk of harm to yourself or to others, please call 911.