How to Get the Most Out of a Free 15-Minute Consultation
Booking a free 15-minute phone consultation can feel like a small step, but it’s often an important one when you’re considering counselling. This brief call gives us a chance to connect, talk about what’s been going on for you, and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
Because the consult is short, a little preparation can help you feel more at ease and get the most out of our time together. Below are a few gentle tips to help you prepare for your consultation with me as a Registered Clinical Counsellor offering counselling in British Columbia.
What Is a 15-Minute Consultation?
A consultation call is an informal, no-pressure conversation. It isn’t a therapy session, but rather an opportunity to:
Share what’s bringing you to counselling
Ask questions about my approach to individual counselling
Learn about practical details like session formats, fees, and availability
Get a sense of whether working together feels right
It’s also a chance for you to notice how you feel speaking with me — feeling comfortable and supported matters.
Preparing Without Pressure
You don’t need to have everything figured out beforehand. Still, it can help to reflect briefly on:
What’s been weighing on you lately
Any hopes or goals you have, even if they feel unclear
What kind of support you’re looking for through individual counselling
The format of counselling you are interested in (in-person, virtual or walk & talk)
Some people like to jot down a few notes, while others prefer to speak freely. Either is completely okay.
Questions You’re Welcome to Ask
This time is for you. There are no “right” or “wrong” questions.
You might want to ask:
What is your approach to counselling?
What does a typical counselling session look like?
How often do clients usually attend sessions?
What are your fees and cancellation policies?
If you’re new to therapy, it’s absolutely okay to ask general questions about what to expect. There’s truly no such thing as a silly question!
Insurance Coverage
Many extended health plans in BC cover sessions with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), though coverage varies by provider.
If you plan to use benefits, you may want to check:
Whether RCC sessions are covered
How many sessions are included
The reimbursement amount per session
I’m always happy to clarify my credentials and explain how receipts for insurance reimbursement works.
What You Don’t Need to Worry About
You don’t need to:
Share your entire life story
Know exactly what’s “wrong”
Be certain that counselling is the right choice
Feeling unsure or nervous is a very normal part of starting counselling.
After the Call
After our consultation, you can take time to reflect. Some people feel ready to book a session right away, while others need more time. There’s no pressure either way.
If we decide to move forward, we’ll talk about next steps and scheduling in a way that feels supportive and manageable.
