Your questions, answered

Many people reach out when they feel stuck, overwhelmed or unsure how to move forward. Families often get in touch when a child is struggling with emotions, behaviour, friendships, confidence or school.

Therapy doesn’t require a crisis or a diagnosis. It can simply be time set aside to work out what’s going on and what would help.

A complimentary 30-minute phone call for every new client. It’s a relaxed conversation to discuss your concerns, ask questions and decide together whether we’re a good fit.

It’s a consultation rather than a counselling session, and there’s no obligation to continue afterwards.

That’s completely normal and isn’t something you need to work out on your own. Many people aren’t sure whether they’re looking for therapy for their child, support for themselves, or guidance as a parent.

Share what’s been happening during the free consultation and we’ll decide the starting point together.

Feeling uncertain before a first appointment is very common, even for people who have been in therapy before. The free consultation exists partly for this reason — a chance to ask questions and get a sense of how we work, with no pressure and nothing booked.

Mostly getting to know each other. We’ll talk about what brought you in, what you’re hoping for and any background that feels relevant, and begin shaping goals together.

You’re never expected to share everything at once. You decide what you’re ready to talk about, and we go at your pace.

Reluctance is very common, especially with teens, and it isn’t a sign that therapy won’t work. Early sessions focus on building trust and comfort rather than expecting a child to open up straight away — often through play, drawing, games or simply talking about ordinary things first.

Many young people who arrive hesitant settle in once the space feels like theirs.

Depending on your child’s age and goals, therapy may include parent consultations and collaborative planning, so you feel more confident responding to challenges at home rather than only supporting your child in session.

Your child’s privacy is also respected. We discuss openly at the start, with everyone involved, what stays private and what gets shared. That clarity is a large part of what makes the space feel safe to a young person.

School-aged children and adolescents from 6 to 18, adults, and parents or caregivers.

Child and adolescent therapy is currently offered in person only. Adult therapy and parent consultation are available in person or online.

English, Cantonese and Mandarin. You’re welcome to speak in whichever language — or combination of languages — feels most natural.

Many clients move between languages during a session, and that’s completely fine. Often the words for something difficult only exist in one of them.

Adult therapy and parent consultations are available online to clients anywhere in British Columbia.

Child and adolescent therapy is currently offered in person only, since developmentally appropriate, play-informed work with young people is better supported face to face.

There’s no predetermined number. Some concerns are addressed in a short period; others benefit from longer-term support.

We review progress and goals together as we go, so the length of the work reflects what’s actually helping rather than a fixed package.

Sessions are $170 for 50 minutes across child and adolescent therapy, individual adult therapy, parent consultation and Walk & Talk counselling. Clinical documentation is $100 for 30 minutes. The initial 30-minute consultation is free.

Alisa holds master’s degrees in counselling and educational psychology and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC).

Because coverage depends on your specific plan and the credentials it recognises, please confirm reimbursement eligibility directly with your extended health provider before booking. An itemised receipt is provided after every session.

Sessions are booked online through the Jane App scheduling system, where you can also manage or reschedule existing appointments.

At least 24 hours’ notice is appreciated for cancellations, as last-minute changes limit availability for other clients.