FAQ

What you might be wondering

Why does a smooth transition to marriage matter?

Research shows that newlyweds who experience a difficult transition to marriage tend to report lower levels of marital satisfaction at the 5-year mark of their marriage than those with a smooth transition*. On top of that, more than 20% of first marriages end in divorce within the first five years*. The early years of marriage seem to set the stage for later outcomes, so it is important to address issues early on before they become a full-blown fire!

Is premarital counselling only for those who have issues in their relationship?

Not at all! 

Any couples who are engaged or considering marriage can benefit from premarital therapy. The goal of premarital therapy is to help couples prepare for marriage, which is something that has not happened yet. You might not be experiencing issues now, but doing premarital work can help you feel better equipped when issues do arise in the future. Our Premarital Education Package is ideal for you if you are looking for something more structured and educational in nature.

According to research, premarital training can reduce divorce by 31%* and increase marital fulfillment by 30%*, so it is beneficial to all couples regardless of the current state of your relationship. 

Will my benefits cover me?

Services provided by a Registered Clinical Counsellor (my designation) are covered on many extended health benefit plans, but please check with your extended health carrier to be sure.

If you purchase a package and want to claim the cost through your workplace extended health plan, please note that extended health benefit plans do not allow you to claim for prepaid sessions (e.g. sessions which have not yet occurred).  As such, I will divide the cost of the package by the number of sessions and send you separate receipts for the date of each session. 

What are the conditions of the Premarital Education Package?

The Premarital Education Package needs to be prepaid and is non-refundable, and it would be valid for up to a year.

Is what we talk about confidential?

Yes, it is strictly confidential. Anything that is disclosed to me during our sessions together will not be shared with others. However, there are some exceptions to this rule such as:

  • When you may be causing serious harm to yourself or others;
  • When there is evidence of abuse of vulnerable persons, such as a child or elderly person; and
  • When your records are requested by court order 

Do you provide online counselling services?

Yes, you can choose to meet with me either in-person or virtually. 

Do you provide counselling services outside of Vancouver?

Yes! I offer online counselling services throughout the province of British Columbia. If you are located elsewhere, please contact me to discuss options.

Is online counselling secure?

Yes, I use a secure end-to-end encrypted video platform. It is PHIPA and PIPEDA compliant (regulation for how Canadian patient health information is stored).

What is your cancellation policy?

I absolutely understand that emergencies may arise, which is why I want to make sure you understand the cancellation policy before you begin working with me. A 24-hour notice is required for cancelling or rescheduling appointments, unless it’s due to exceptional circumstances.

  • Premarital Education Package

If a cancellation occurs with less than 24-hour notice or you miss the session, that session will be counted as used.

  • Counselling Session

If a cancellation occurs with less than 24-hour notice or you miss the session, you will be charged the full fee of the appointment. This payment is due on the same day of the scheduled appointment.

I have some questions or concerns about your services, can I chat with you before booking it?

Of course, I would love to chat! Please book a free 15-minute consultation call with me or send me an email directly. 

Get in touch

*Sources:

Moen, Daniel Alfred, “Newlywed to Established Marriage: A Longitudinal Study of Early Risk and Protective
Factors that Influence Marital Satisfaction” (2011). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 1127.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Survey of Family Growth. Divorce and marital disruption.

Stanley, Scott M., Amato, Paul., Johnson, Christine A., & Markman, Howard J. (2006). Pre-marriage Education, Marital Equality, and Marital Stability: Findings From A Large Random Household Survey. Journal of Family Psychology, V 20, P 117-126.

Caroll, J. S. & Doherty, W. J. (2003). Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pre-marriage Prevention Programs: A Meta-analytical Review of Outcome Research. Family Relations, V 52 (2), P 105-118.