Fees & FAQs
Clear information about counselling fees, insurance coverage, and common questions.
Payment Questions
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Yes. A complimentary 15-minute phone or video consultation is offered at no cost. This is not a counselling session, but a relaxed, no-obligation opportunity to ask questions about the counselling process and see whether working together feels like a good fit.
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Counselling sessions are offered at $160 for 50 minutes or $240 for 75 minutes, for both online and phone appointments.
A limited number of sliding-scale spots are available for individuals experiencing financial hardship. Please email Christina to inquire about availability.
Counselling services are GST-exempt as they are provided by a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC).
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Christina Vasak is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors. Many extended health plans in British Columbia include coverage for counselling services provided by an RCC. Coverage varies by plan, so it’s best to check directly with your insurance provider.
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Direct billing is not available. Clients are responsible for payment at the time of service. A receipt is provided so you can submit it to your insurance provider for reimbursement, if applicable.
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After each session, you will receive an invoice by email. Payment can be made by credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or by e-transfer to christina@christinavasakcounselling.com. Receipts are provided and meet insurance and tax documentation requirements.
Payment for sessions, including missed appointments (no-shows), must be received before your next session can take place.
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If you need to cancel or reschedule, at least 24 hours’ notice is required. Sessions cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, as well as missed appointments (no-shows), may be charged the full session fee. This helps keep appointment times available for others who may be waiting.
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.
What to expect when starting online counselling
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Online counselling is offered through secure phone or video sessions. Video sessions take place on Colib, a secure platform designed specifically for virtual counselling. You will receive an email with a private session link before your appointment.
For the best experience, Google Chrome is recommended if you are using a laptop or desktop computer. If you are joining from a mobile device, please download the Colib app in advance.
For phone sessions, I will call you from a private number at the start of your scheduled appointment. If you miss the call, I will try again after five minutes.
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To help you feel comfortable and get the most out of your session, it’s helpful to choose a quiet, private space where you can speak openly. Let others in your home know you will be unavailable during this time to reduce interruptions.
Using headphones with a microphone can improve sound quality and privacy. Please make sure your device is fully charged, your internet connection is stable, and unnecessary apps or browser tabs are closed. Turning on Do Not Disturb or Silent Mode can also help minimize distractions during your session.
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Before your first session, you will receive a New Client Counselling Intake Form, where you are welcome to share anything you feel is important for me to know ahead of our work together. You will also be asked to review and sign Counselling and Telehealth Informed Consent forms. These forms must be completed prior to your first session.
Other Important Information
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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 experiencing an emergency, please seek immediate assistance through 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, or visit 988.ca
Circle of Care, KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line (available 24/7): 1-800-588-8717
If you are feeling distressed or overwhelmed between sessions but it is not an emergency, you may also consider contacting HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 for guidance and support.
Your safety and well-being are the highest priority. If you need immediate help, please reach out to one of the resources above.
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Yes. Counselling services are confidential, and your privacy is taken seriously. Christina Vasak Counselling uses Colib, a secure, web-based practice management platform. All client data is encrypted, securely stored in Canada, and managed in compliance with applicable privacy legislation, including PIPEDA, PHIPA, PIPA, and Loi 25.
There are specific limits to confidentiality required by law and professional ethics. Confidentiality may be broken in the following circumstances:
If a child or vulnerable adult is at risk of abuse, neglect, or requires protection
If there is a clear and imminent risk of serious harm to you or another person
If disclosure is required by law, such as in response to a court order or subpoena
Non-identifying information may be shared for professional consultation or supervision with other qualified mental health professionals to support best possible care
These limits to confidentiality will be discussed further as part of the informed consent process, and you are always welcome to ask questions at any time.