top of page

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I book an appointment?
Booking your first appointment is simple with a focus on being welcoming and supportive to our prospective clients. You can reach out to us by phone, email, or through our online booking system. We’ll be here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and comfortable process for you.

 

2. What should I expect during my first session?
Your first session is all about getting to know you and creating a safe, inclusive and trusting space. We’ll explore your goals, concerns, and what you're hoping to accomplish in our work together. There’s no rush—this is your time to share what feels important and build a trusting connection with your counsellor.

3. How long does a typical counselling session last?
Our counselling sessions are typically set for 50 minutes in duration. However, some of the specialized therapies and modalities we offer, such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), can take up to an hour and a half to provide the necessary space for deep, focused therapeutic work. If you are interested in something different, reach out to your counsellor to discuss your needs and possible options available.

4. Do you accept insurance or provide receipts for reimbursement?
Yes, we provide direct billing to most insurance companies to make the process as easy and accessible as possible for you. If direct billing isn’t available, we’ll provide detailed receipts following payment that you can submit for reimbursement to your insurance provider.  We’re happy to answer any questions you may have regarding this process.

5. Is my information confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy is deeply respected and protected at Flourish. Everything you share remains safe and confidential, with a few rare exceptions as required by law. We’ll explain these clearly during our initial session so you feel secure and informed regarding the protection of your information.

 

6. What if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?
Life happens, and we understand. All we ask is that our clients notify us as soon as possible if they need to cancel or reschedule a session, and we’ll work together to find a new time that suits them.

 

7. How many sessions will I need?
Just like every individual client is unique, the healing journey is similar in nature. Every person’s healing process is distinctive to them and will vary. Some individuals find healing in just a few sessions, while others may require ongoing services over a longer period. Regardless, we'll work alongside you to support you on your journey.

 

8. Do you offer counselling for children and teens?
Yes, we have two counsellors who warmly support children and teens. They use gentle, age-appropriate approaches that honour young people’s unique experiences and needs, helping them feel heard, understood, and empowered.

 

9. What types of issues do you help with?
We support clients navigating a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to, anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, trauma, relationship concerns, ADHD, life transitions, and more. Whatever you’re facing, you don’t have to do it alone.

 

10. What qualifications do your counsellors have?

Our team is made up of compassionate, skilled professionals who all hold Master’s degrees in Social Work, with specializations in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Perinatal/Postpartum support. They are committed to ongoing learning and providing the best evidence-based care tailored to your needs.

We have counselors trained through CADDRA—the Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance—who specialize in completing ADHD assessments and supporting ADHD management. These counselors follow the Canadian ADHD Practice Guidelines and use the most current, evidence-based tools to ensure thorough and accurate assessments aligned with national best practices.

 

11. Can I switch counsellors if I feel it’s not a good fit?
Yes. Your comfort and trust matter most. If you feel your counsellor isn’t the right match, just let us know. We’re happy to support you in finding someone who feels like the best fit for your healing journey.

 

12. What is your approach to trauma-informed care?
We prioritize safety, respect, and empowerment. Our trauma-informed approach means we recognize the impact of trauma on your life and work gently with your needs, offering autonomy and choice throughout your therapeutic process.

13. What is the difference between ART and EMDR?

Both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) are effective, evidence-based approaches that help the brain process and heal from distressing experiences. They both use eye movements to help shift how memories are stored, so they feel less triggering.

The main difference is in the process and pace. EMDR often works by having you recall the memory and explore its different aspects of it over multiple sessions. ART is more directive and can often lead to faster results by helping you replace distressing images with more positive ones—without having to share all the details out loud if you don’t want to.

Both approaches can be gentle, empowering, and highly effective—your counsellor can help determine which is the best fit for you.

14. Will my counsellor know which techniques may best suit my needs?
You are the expert in your own life, and our counsellors honour that by meeting you exactly where you are. Together, we take the time to understand your unique goals, experiences, and what feels right for you. From there, your counsellor will gently guide you toward approaches that support your growth and healing—sometimes blending different techniques or adjusting as you progress. This is your journey, and we’re here to walk alongside you.

15. What if I don’t respond to the type of therapy I am receiving?
It’s completely okay if something doesn’t feel like the right fit at first. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your comfort and well-being matter most. If an approach isn’t resonating with you, your counsellor will listen closely and explore  other ways to support you. Open communication is a key part of your healing, and together, we’ll find what feels helpful and meaningful to you.

16. Can I avail of your services if I do not live in the St. John’s Metro Region?
Absolutely. We welcome clients from anywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador through our virtual counselling options. As long as you are located within the province during your sessions, you can access our services and receive compassionate care wherever you are.

 

17. How can therapy help me or my child with ADHD?

Therapy can be a powerful support for managing ADHD by helping build strategies for focus, organization, and emotional regulation. Our counsellors work with you and your unique strengths, offering tools tailored to your needs to help you thrive in everyday life. Whether for a child, teen, or adult, therapy is a safe space to explore challenges and celebrate progress.

*If you are experiencing an urgent mental health concern and need assistance immediately, please call the Mental Health Crisis Line (811) or go to your nearest emergency room.  For non-emergency counselling, Canada-wide, 24/7, call Wellness Together at 1-866-585-0445.

 

The following is a list of 24/7 crisis services available: 

 

  • Suicide Crisis Hotline: Call or Text 9-8-8

  • Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 686868 

  • Help for Wellness (for Indigenous peoples): Call 1-855-242-3310

  • Trans Life Line: 1-877-330-6366

  • LGBTQ+ Youthline: 1-800-268-9688

  • Kids Help Phone (ages 5-29): Call 1-800-668-6868 (toll-free) or text CONNECT to 686868

 

To find local resources and support near you visit: https://www.gov.nl.ca/hcs/findhealthservices/helplines/

bottom of page