Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy in Nanaimo, BC

The free consultation is a 15–20 minute call where we get to know each other. You can share a bit about what's bringing you to therapy, ask any questions you have, and get a sense of whether we'd be a good fit. There's no pressure to commit — it's simply a conversation. We won't push you to book, and you take as much time as you need to decide.

You don't need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. If something in your life is causing you distress, affecting your relationships, making it hard to function, or simply weighing on you — that's enough reason to reach out. Therapy isn't a last resort. Many people use it as a space to grow, understand themselves better, and build skills they'll carry for life.

You're welcome to read both therapists' profiles and go with your gut. Mohamad specializes in trauma, PTSD, EMDR, IFS, and first responder trauma, and offers therapy in English and Arabic. Alison brings psychoanalytic depth combined with modern approaches like DBT, EMDR, and inner child work. If you're unsure, mention it in your consultation and we'll help match you.

Not at all. Some people come to therapy with a clear issue — trauma, anxiety, relationship struggles. Others come because something feels off but they can't quite name it. Both are completely valid starting points.

Yes. The research on virtual therapy consistently shows it is equally effective as in-person therapy for most concerns — including trauma, anxiety, depression, and couples counselling. For many clients, virtual therapy is actually preferable: no commute, more scheduling flexibility, and the option to be in your own comfortable environment.

We offer sessions via Zoom, Google Meet, or our Jane platform. All platforms are secure and private. You'll receive a link before each session. No downloads are required for Zoom or Google Meet — you can join from your browser.

A device with a camera and microphone (phone, tablet, or computer), a stable internet connection, and a private space where you won't be interrupted. Headphones can help with both privacy and sound quality. That's it.

Yes. Everything discussed in therapy is confidential. There are limited legal exceptions — if there is an imminent risk of serious harm to you or someone else, or if required by law. These will be explained clearly in your intake paperwork. We take privacy extremely seriously.

Individual sessions are $150 per hour. Couples sessions are $175 per hour. The initial consultation is free. Sliding scale fees are available for clients who cannot afford the standard rate — please ask.

We accept most insurance plans that cover Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC). Check with your provider before your first session. Common plans that cover CCC include many extended health benefits through employers. We can provide a receipt for submission after each session.

A sliding scale means we adjust the session cost based on your financial situation. We believe mental health care should be accessible regardless of income. If the standard rate is a barrier for you, please mention it during the consultation and we'll do our best to accommodate.

We accept Interac/e-Transfer and credit card. Payment is typically arranged through our Jane platform before or after sessions.

It depends on what you're working on. Some people notice meaningful change in 8–12 sessions. Others work with a therapist for months or years. We'll discuss this together and check in regularly. There's no pressure to continue beyond what's useful, and you can pause or end therapy whenever you choose.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is one of the most research-supported treatments for trauma and PTSD. It helps your brain reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer trigger distress. Contrary to what some people assume, EMDR doesn't require you to describe your trauma in detail — the process works at a neurological level. Most clients notice significant improvement within a few sessions.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a compassionate approach that views the mind as made up of different 'parts' — each with its own feelings, beliefs, and roles. Many of these parts developed in response to difficult experiences. IFS helps you connect with and heal these parts, restoring inner harmony and self-trust. It's particularly powerful for trauma, self-criticism, and emotional regulation.

Not necessarily. Some therapeutic approaches go deeper into early experiences, and others focus entirely on the present. We'll follow your lead. Some people find that understanding their earlier experiences is crucial to changing present patterns. Others prefer a more practical, present-focused approach. Both are valid — and we'll work with what's right for you.