Counselling consent information

This page is an accessible information resource. It does not replace Revelation Counselling’s formal written consent document or the consent conversation you will have with your therapist.

Your therapist and your choices

Revelation Counselling’s team includes Registered Psychologists, a Provisional Psychologist, Registered Clinical Social Workers and Canadian Certified Counsellors, along with team members who provide specialized support within their education, training and professional role.

Your therapist will identify their own professional designation, registration or certification, regulatory or professional body, scope of practice, approach, relevant experience and the services they are offering. Where supervision applies, they will also explain the supervision arrangement and how information may be shared for that purpose.

You are encouraged to ask questions, discuss concerns, request changes to the approach and decide whether the therapist feels like a suitable fit.

Counselling is voluntary. You may decline a recommendation, limit your consent or stop counselling at any time. When possible, discussing your decision with your therapist can help create a safe and thoughtful ending.

What happens in counselling

Counselling is a collaborative process intended to help you understand concerns, work toward your goals and develop useful personal or relationship strategies. Your first appointment usually includes discussion of what brings you in, relevant history, goals, confidentiality and the type of support that may be helpful.

The length of counselling varies. Some people attend only a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term or occasional support. You and your therapist can review progress and goals as counselling continues.

Potential benefits and risks

Possible benefits include greater understanding, improved coping, relief from symptoms, healthier communication and meaningful change. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Discussing difficult experiences can sometimes bring temporary discomfort, stronger emotions, anxiety, confusion or changes in relationships. Tell your therapist if the pace or approach does not feel manageable so you can consider adjustments together.

Privacy and confidentiality

Your attendance and the information you share are generally kept confidential. Your therapist will explain the specific legal and ethical limits that apply to your care. These may include situations involving an immediate risk of serious harm, concerns about a child or dependent person, a legal requirement or court order, professional consultation, or permission you have provided.

When counselling involves a child, youth, couple or family, privacy and information-sharing can be more complex. Your therapist will explain who the client is, who can provide consent, what may be shared and how information from joint and individual conversations will be handled.

Records and communication

The clinic maintains clinical and contact records in accordance with professional, legal and insurance requirements. Electronic records, email, text messages, video counselling and appointment reminders involve some privacy risk. Your therapist or the intake team can explain the systems used and discuss communication preferences with you.

Please avoid sending urgent safety concerns or highly sensitive clinical details through ordinary email or the website contact form.

Appointments, fees and cancellations

Session length, fees, payment arrangements, insurance eligibility, cancellation requirements and any charges for reports or other professional services will be reviewed before or at the start of care. See Rates & insurance for the clinic’s current public information.

Consent is ongoing

Consent is not limited to signing a form. Your therapist will continue to discuss consent when the service, goals, participants, risks, technology or information-sharing arrangements change. You may ask questions or revisit a decision at any point.