Before our first session, you’ll receive a New Client Counselling Intake Form where you are free to share whatever you think is important for me to know ahead of our session.

You’ll also be asked to review and sign Counselling and Telehealth Informed Consent Forms. These forms must be completed prior to our first session.

To help you get the most out of your session and ensure your privacy, here are a few tips for preparing:

Create a Private Space

Choose a quiet, private spot where you feel comfortable speaking openly. Let others in your home know you’ll be unavailable during this time so you can focus without interruption.

For Phone Sessions

I’ll call you from a private number at the start of your session. If you miss the call, I’ll try again after five minutes.

For Video Sessions

You’ll receive an email with a secure video link through Colib.

• If using a laptop or desktop, please use Google Chrome for the best experience.

• If using a mobile device, download the Colib app in advance.

Technical Tips

• Use headphones with a microphone to improve sound quality and privacy.

• Ensure your Wi-Fi is stable and your device is fully charged.

• Close unnecessary apps or browser tabs to reduce distractions.

• Turn on Do Not Disturb or Silent Mode to avoid interruptions during your session.

How do I pay for sessions?

After each session, you’ll receive an invoice by email. Payment can be made by e-transfer to: christina@christinavasakcounselling.com

In some cases, credit card payments can be processed at the end of the session.

Once payment is received, a receipt will be emailed to you for your records.

Please note: Payment for sessions—including missed appointments (No Shows)—must be received before your next session can take place.

There is no GST charged on counselling sessions.

Your appointment time is set aside just for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. This allows time to offer the spot to someone else who may be waiting for an appointment.

Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice, or missed sessions, will be charged the full session fee.

If Christina needs to cancel within the 24-hour window due to unforeseen circumstances, she will contact you as soon as possible and offer a complimentary rescheduled session.

Thank you for your understanding and respect for this policy.

Does my insurance cover counselling sessions?

Christina Vasak is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. Many extended health plans in BC include coverage for counselling services provided by an RCC.

Please check with your insurance provider to confirm your benefits.

Currently, direct billing to insurance companies is not available. If you have coverage, you can submit your receipts for reimbursement.

Crisis and Immediate Support

Christina Vasak Counselling is not an emergency service and cannot provide immediate support for urgent or crisis situations.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, at risk of harm, or facing an emergency, please seek help immediately by contacting one of the following resources:

• Call 9-1-1 or go to your nearest emergency room

• BC Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call or text 9-8-8 — 988.ca

• Circle of Care: KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line (available 24/7): 1-800-588-8717

If you are feeling overwhelmed or in distress between sessions but it is not an emergency, consider reaching out to non-crisis supports such as HealthLink BC at 8-1-1.

Your safety and well-being are the highest priority. If you need immediate assistance, please contact the resources above.

I am happy to provide an optional, complimentary 15 minute phone or video consultation that can be booked online at www.christinavasakcounselling.com

Consultations are not counselling sessions, but rather an opportunity to ask questions about the counselling process and to see if we are a good counsellor-client fit.

Christina Vasak Counselling uses Colib, a web-based practice management software that ensures data is encrypted and securely stored in Canada. Colib complies with PIPEDA, PHIPA, PIPA, and Loi 25.

All sessions are confidential with the exception of the following Limits to Confidentiality:

1. If a child or vulnerable adult is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect, or in need of protection.

2. If I believe that you or another person is at clear risk of imminent harm.

3. For the purpose of complying with a legal order such as a subpoena, or if the disclosure is otherwise required or authorized by law.

4. I may also disclose non-identifying information for the purpose of a professional consultation with my clinical supervisor, my colleagues, or other mental health professionals, as necessary to ensure best possible care.