Clear Information Before You Begin
Starting counselling can bring up many questions.
This page provides helpful information about appointments, counselling options, fees, insurance coverage, privacy, and what you can expect from the process. Every person’s circumstances are different. If your question is not answered below, you are welcome to get in touch before booking an appointment.
Getting Started
You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. People seek support for many reasons, including anxiety, stress, depression, grief, relationship difficulties, chronic pain, significant life changes, or simply feeling that something in their life is no longer working.
Counselling provides a private and supportive environment where you can better understand what you are experiencing and begin working toward meaningful, sustainable change.
The first appointment is an opportunity to discuss what has brought you to counselling, what you hope to gain from the process, and any concerns or questions you may have.
Andrew will also explain his approach and work with you to begin identifying appropriate goals for counselling. There is no expectation that you share everything immediately. The process can move at a pace that feels manageable for you.
Private counselling clients generally do not require a referral. However, referrals or prior authorization may be required when counselling is funded through an insurance provider, workplace program, disability claim, or other third party.
Please confirm the requirements of your specific plan or contact Andrew before booking.
Andrew provides counselling for adults aged 18 and older. He works with individuals and couples experiencing a range of emotional, psychological, relational, and life challenges.
The frequency of appointments depends on your needs, goals, availability, and circumstances. Some clients begin with weekly or biweekly sessions, while others attend less frequently.
Andrew will discuss a schedule with you and review it as counselling progresses.
Appointments
Yes. In-person counselling appointments are available in Comox at the West Coast Collective, located at:
618 Anderton Road, Unit 109
Comox, British Columbia
Yes. Secure online counselling appointments are available for clients located anywhere within British Columbia.
Online counselling can be a practical option for people who live outside the Comox Valley, have transportation or mobility limitations, travel frequently, or prefer to attend from home.
Session length and appointment options will be shown when booking. Couples counselling or more complex appointments may sometimes benefit from a longer session.
Appointments can be requested through the online booking system. Select the appointment type that best matches your needs and choose from the available dates and times.
Please provide as much notice as possible if you need to change your appointment. The full cancellation and rescheduling policy will be provided during the booking process.
Fees and Insurance
Current fees and appointment options are provided on the Insurance and Fees page and through the online booking system.
Many extended health plans provide coverage for services delivered by a Registered Clinical Counsellor. Coverage varies significantly between providers and individual plans.
Before booking, contact your insurer to confirm:
- Whether Registered Clinical Counsellors are covered
- The amount available each year
- Whether a referral is required
- Whether there are limits on session fees or appointment frequency
Billing arrangements depend on the insurer or funding organization involved. Please contact Andrew before your appointment if direct billing is required.
Some clients may be eligible for counselling funded through an insurer, disability provider, workplace program, or another approved organization. Authorization and eligibility requirements vary.
Please contact Andrew with the name of the funding provider and any referral or claim information before booking.
Appropriate documentation can be provided for eligible counselling services. You are responsible for confirming whether the service qualifies under your insurance plan.
Privacy and Professional Care
Counselling is private and confidential. Information discussed during appointments is not shared without your permission except in specific circumstances where disclosure is required by law or professional ethical obligations.
Andrew will explain confidentiality and its limits at the beginning of the counselling process.
Online appointments should be attended from a private location where you feel comfortable speaking openly. Additional information about online privacy, technology, and informed consent will be provided before your appointment.
Finding the right therapeutic fit is important. The first few appointments provide an opportunity for both you and Andrew to determine whether his experience, personality, and counselling approach are appropriate for your needs.
If another type of support would be more suitable, Andrew may discuss alternative options or referral resources with you.
Andrew Sumner Counselling is not an emergency or crisis service. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 911 or attend the nearest emergency department.
Still Have Questions?
Choosing a counsellor is an important decision, and it is reasonable to have questions before getting started. Contact Andrew for clarification about appointment options, counselling services, insurance, or whether his approach may be suitable for your needs.
