Frequently Asked Questions
Are you accepting new clients?
We are currently working to build our team of experienced and passionate therapists, and hope we are accepting new clients soon. Currently, Lara is unable to accept new clients. Please email hello@alaracounselling.ca to be added to our waitlist and to be notified of spaces as they become available.
Are you offering in-person counselling?
Yes. We offer in-person counselling services in Port Moody, BC. We also offer virtual and telephone sessions. Please note: couples intensive sessions are only offered in-person.
I can’t seem to book a complimentary conversation. Why is this?
Complimentary conversations are only available to be booked online when we are accepting new clients. If you are interested in booking one to discuss coming in for a couples intensive, please send an email to hello@alaracounselling.ca.
Should we come together for the first session if we are seeking couples therapy?
Yes. It is ideal to come together so that I can meet both partners at the same time.
What is the difference between a 1 hour and 90-minute couples therapy session?
Many couples find 90-minutes allows them to feel more settled and less rushed in the session. Other couples prefer 1 hour due to financial or childcare limitations.
Can you work with me virtually if I live outside of BC? Outside of Canada?
This is somewhat dependent on where you live. Please contact us for more info.
What is your approach to counselling?
Our counsellors will tailor the approach to what fits you best. All of our counsellors are trauma-informed, and highly relational. They attend to what is happening in the room between us. Often what is happening in the counselling space is a small example of what may be happening in other aspects of your life. We will explore this together. You can read more about the different approaches here.
What can I expect in the first session?
You can expect to have a conversation with your counsellor to get to know each other better. We understand it can be intimidating meeting a new counsellor for the first time. We will welcome you to ask questions about our education, and life experiences. We will likely ask you some questions as well. If you come to counselling with something specific you wish to discuss, we will follow your lead on this. We will work collaboratively to set the agenda.
What are your fees?
A 20 minute conversation is complimentary. A 1 hour individual session is $170. A 1 hour couples session is $190.
Do you accept insurance?
Many folks do have insurance coverage through their private insurance companies. Check if your private insurer covers work with a registered clinical counsellor. Please note: payment is expected at the time of the appointment, and clients will submit receipt to their insurance companies for reimbursement. We do not bill insurance companies directly.
Do you offer reduced rate or subsidized counselling options?
Yes, it is important to me that we offer some sessions at a reduced rate to increase accessibility for those experiencing financial challenges. A sliding scale is a fee payment structure that takes a variety of intersecting factors into account. Please contact the director for more information about counsellors who have an open sliding scale at this time.
Are you comfortable working with ___?
If you have a specific question as it pertains to my competency with a specific issue or population, please don’t hesitate to send an email at hello@lararabb.com or book a complimentary conversation. We are happy to discuss this with you.