Frequently Asked Questions
At Willow and Sage Counselling, we believe in creating a safe, compassionate space for our clients. Whether you are considering counselling for the first time or are a returning client, we understand you might have questions. This page contains frequently asked questions about our services, approach, and processes.
You will find information about booking sessions, what to expect during counselling, fees and insurance coverage, and other resources. We have also included guidance on how to choose the right counsellor for you and tips for making the most of your sessions.
Please reach out to us if you do not find what you are looking for. We are happy to assist you in finding the information and support you need. Let’s take the next step toward your wellbeing together.
What makes Willow and Sage Counselling different from other counselling services?
Willow and Sage Counselling stands out because we provide individualized support tailored to each client’s needs with a focus on children, families, and developmental concerns. Led by Kaitlan McCuish, a Board-Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA) and Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), we specialize in child development, neurodiversity, women’s health, and parenting supports.
Our services are available in Surrey and Burnaby, and offer online counselling options for flexibility and accessibility. We prioritize an individualized approach to therapy to ensure comprehensive care, and we collaborate with other professionals throughout BC.
What types of issues can counselling address?
At Willow and Sage Counselling can address a wide range of topics, including anxiety, depression, phobias, OCD, relationship topics, parenting or behavioural concerns, developmental delays, stress, sleep difficulties, picky eating, emotional regulation and more.
Our approach is tailored to help children, parents, and families navigate their unique situations. View our blog for additional information on specific topics!
What can I expect in my first counselling session?
In your first counselling session, you can expect to discuss your goals, concerns, and reasons for seeking therapy. For parents, this often includes a one-on-one meeting to share background information and outline a plan for supporting your child prior to meeting them.
Additionally, the initial intake session will focus on creating a comfortable environment and answering any questions about the process.
How do I prepare my child for their first counselling session?
To prepare your child for their first session, explain that counselling is a safe place where they can talk, play, and learn ways to handle big feelings. Keep it positive and reassuring. Share that the counsellor is there to help and may use activities or games to make it fun. Let them bring a favourite toy or comfort item if it helps them feel at ease. If you have concerns about preparing your child for a session, please feel free to bring this topic up at your parent intake session.
How long does counselling take to see results?
The time it takes to see results varies depending on the individual and their goals. Some clients notice changes in a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term support. At Willow and Sage Counselling, we regularly review progress to ensure the approach meets your needs.
Where are your counselling offices located?
Willow and Sage Counselling has two convenient locations:
- Surrey Office: 15300 54A Ave, Surrey, BC, easily accessible from Highway 10.
- Burnaby Office: 301-3701 Hastings St, Burnaby, BC, located near the intersection of Hastings and Boundary.
We also offer online counselling sessions for clients across British Columbia.
What are your counselling fees, and do you accept insurance?
Our counselling fees are $150 per 50-minute session. Many extended health plans cover counselling with a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC). We recommend checking with your insurance provider for details about your coverage. Receipts will be provided for insurance claims.
How do I book a counselling session?
Booking a counselling session is easy. You can contact us via our contact form, email, or phone to schedule your first session. Follow-up appointments can be booked online through Jane or by email.
What support do you offer for parents of children with autism?
We provide support for parents navigating autism diagnoses and therapies, including guidance on managing behavioural, academic, and social goals. Our counselling includes practical strategies for parenting, emotional regulation support, and collaboration with the other professionals on your team such as BCBAs, OTs, and SLPs.
What types of therapy do you provide?
Our services are designed to support children, families, and adults navigating a range of concerns. We offer play therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), emotion-focused therapy (EFT), applied behaviour analysis (ABA), mindfulness, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
We specialize in working with three main groups: children and families, individuals with developmental concerns, and adults seeking therapy for personal growth and mental health challenges.
What is a free developmental support session, and who can access it?
Our free developmental support sessions are available for parents with children aged 6-24 months. These sessions provide guidance on milestones, play strategies, and resources to support early development. Contact us to book your free session.
Can you help me find another counsellor if your services are not the right fit?
Yes. If our services are not the best match for your needs, we will happily help you find another counsellor who may be a better fit.
We have collaborative relationships with other counsellors in Surrey and Burnaby, as well as those who offer services online. We are committed to supporting your journey, even if it means connecting you with someone else.
What is play therapy, and how does it work?
Play therapy uses play-based activities to help children express their emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and improve communication. Through play, children can explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive environment. At Willow and Sage Counselling, play therapy is used in sessions to help children engage and learn in a way that feels natural.
How can counselling help with challenges like school refusal?
Counselling helps children address the underlying causes of school avoidance, such as anxiety, social challenges, or emotional regulation difficulties. We work with children to build coping skills, improve confidence, and create strategies for transitioning back to school. Collaboration with parents and educators ensures a team approach to success.
What strategies can you suggest for helping children manage big emotions?
Helping children manage big emotions begins with creating a safe, supportive environment where they can identify and express their feelings. At Willow and Sage Counselling, we emphasize co-regulation, where caregivers help children calm down by modelling emotional regulation and providing a steady, reassuring presence. This sets the foundation for children to learn self-regulation over time.
We use strategies like play therapy, first/then strategies, and naturalistic behaviour approaches to create an engaging space for children to explore their emotions and practice coping skills. Tools such as breathing exercises or sensory grounding activities are introduced during counselling sessions.
Equally important is providing children with opportunities to practice these skills in real-life situations. By guiding children through challenging moments and encouraging them to try again, they build resilience and confidence in managing their emotions. Parents are supported with strategies to model, reinforce, and scaffold these skills at home. This ensures consistency and collaboration in building emotional regulation.
What resources are available for parents with limited support?
We understand that parenting can be challenging, especially with limited resources. Willow and Sage Counselling provides low-cost counselling options to two individuals at a time, for up to 10 sessions each. Interested in joining the waitlist to receive low-cost counselling? Please reach out to us at info@willowandsagecounselling.com.
We are committed to increasing access to community resources to supplement and support your counselling journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out and request guidance on connecting with community programs such as low-cost counselling partners, free parenting programs, and other family services in British Columbia.