What happens in a free consultation?

Reaching out to a counsellor for the first time can feel like a big step. A free consultation makes it a smaller one.

A consultation is a conversation, not a commitment. Its purpose is simple: to give us both a sense of whether working together feels right.

You don’t need to have the right words, a diagnosis, or a clear idea of what you want. Many people arrive knowing only that something needs to change. That’s enough to begin.

What we talk about

I’ll ask a little about what brings you here now, and what you hope might be different. You can share as much or as little as feels comfortable — this isn’t the time to tell your whole story.

It’s also your chance to ask me anything: how I work, what a session looks like, whether I have experience with what you’re facing, or how faith and spirituality might fit in, if that matters to you. Paying attention to how it feels to talk with me is just as important as anything I say. Trust grows in relationship, and you’ll learn a lot from that first sense of being heard.

Practical questions

We can talk about fees, including the sliding scale, and about meeting online by secure video from anywhere in British Columbia. If you have extended health benefits, it’s worth checking whether your plan covers a Registered Clinical Counsellor.

Afterwards

There’s no pressure to decide on the spot. If you’d like to go ahead, we’ll book a first session. If you’d like time to think, that’s fine too. And if I’m not the right fit for what you need, I’m glad to help you think about where else to turn.

How to book

Consultations are booked through Jane, the secure Canadian booking system I use for my practice. You choose a time that suits you, and nothing you share on this website is stored. If you have a question before booking, you’re welcome to email me at rhonda@rhondaaltontracy.com — just a line about what you’re looking for, without personal or health details.

A consultation isn’t the right place for an emergency. If you are in crisis, call or text 9-8-8 at any time.

Rhonda Alton-Tracy is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (BCACC) offering counselling online anywhere in British Columbia. The first consultation is always free.

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