Frequently Asked Questions
What is Calm Waters Counselling Collective?
CWCC is a group of counsellors working together to provide inclusive, trauma-informed, evidence-based mental health care in BC. We offer both individual and group counselling, plus professional consultation for counsellors.
What services do you offer?
We are offering individual & group counselling. Some of our clinicians offer couples or family counselling.
What if I am in crisis or need immediate help?
If you’re in immediate danger or experiencing a mental health emergency, please call 911 (in Canada) or go to your nearest emergency department. For urgent mental health situations, you can use local crisis lines or contact the 24/7 line in Canada (e.g., 988). Our services are not emergency crisis services. Follow your safety plan and connect with your clinician for follow up.
Who do you help? What population do you serve?
Adults (18+) in British Columbia seeking individual or group counselling; also counsellors/clinicians looking for consultation or group work.
How long does therapy usually last?
For groups: Usually 6-8 weeks, holiday support groups are 4 weeks, individual group/workshops are one, 2 hour session.
For individual counselling: It depends on your goals, needs, and pace — we’ll discuss this with you in your first session. Most folks start with weekly or biweekly session, decreasing or increasing frequency as needed.
How do I schedule a session?
Use the “Contact Us” form on our website or send us a message to book a free 15-minute consultation. You may also call us at 604.834.1708. If you are unsure of who you’d like to work with, we can help match you with the right clinician or group. Returning clients, please email your clinician or the clinical director.
Are you currently in person or virtual?
Currently individual and group counselling sessions are provided virtually (clinicians are based in BC). We hope to offer in person services in 2026 (stay tuned!)
Group Therapy
What are the benefits of group?
Groups offer a sense of connectedness, support, encouragement and understanding. Gain new perspectives from others facing similar challenges. Learn skills to help you cope with life’s challenges and build your confidence!
What types of groups do you offer?
Anxiety & Depression
Grief & Grace
DBT Cope Ahead
DBT Based Skills
Boundaries & Communication skills.
What sliding scale or low cost options are available ?
In order to increase accessibility for folks, all of our groups are offered below the standard/recommended fee schedule set forth by the BCACC.
Example: DBT Group is $100/2 hour session.
Fee schedule for counsellors states range of $150-$230.
You can find the recommended fee schedule, according to the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors here:
What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) was developed by Marsha Linehan for individuals with suicidal ideations, self harm, and what we now know as borderline personality disorder. It is a skills based treatment that teaches skills from: Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, Mindfulness and Interpersonal Effectiveness
What is DBT Based skills group?
Our skills group is a 2 hour weekly group that teaches some of the fundamental skills from DBT. We run group in alignment with the principles, structures and goals of DBT, without the 24+ week time commitment and financial strain.
For folks who would like to attend a comprehensive DBT Program, we are happy to provide recommendations.
Who can join DBT skills group?
We welcome adults age 18+ who are in British Columbia, Canada. We do NOT require a borderline personality disorder diagnosis. Participants must be able and willing to attend and participate in all modules/weeks of the group. A confidential space is needed during group.
Billing Questions
Do you offer direct billing?
At this time, only Samantha can direct billing for Medavie Blue Cross and Pacific Blue Cross.
Can I get reimbursed by my insurance?
We hope so! Please check with your insurance provider to see which services and which providers are covered under your policy. We cannot guarantee reimbursement. A receipt will be provided that you can submit (if applicable).
What is the cancellation policy?
We require 24 hours notice to cancel an appointment and avoid a late/no show fee. You can cancel your appointment by giving us a call, sending an email, or cancelling through Jane. The cancellation fee is 100% of the session fee.
What methods of payment are accepted?
Credit Cards (Visa, Mastercard), American Express, E-transfer. Checks, Money orders, or cash are not accepted.’
Individual Counselling Fees
Kerry Macdonnell, RSW
Individual sessions $130/50 minutes
Jennica Campbell- RTC
Individual sessions $110+GST/50 minutes
Samantha Short, RCC
Individual sessions $160/50 minutes
Low-Cost Individual $75/50 minutes *subject to availability
Group Counselling Fees
DBT Based Skills (Fall 2025)
$100/week, Group is 8 weeks cohort
Social Anxiety Group (Fall 2025)
$60/week, 90 minute group, 6 week cohort
Unwrapping Your Peace: Navigating Anxiety and Depression over the holidays
$75/group, 90 minute group, 4 week cohort, seasonal
Boundaries & Communication Skills
$125/person, 2 hour group - workshop style
Grief & Grace: Navigating the Holidays with loss and love
$125/person , 2 hour group, seasonal
DBT- Cope Ahead, Holiday Edition
$125/person, 2 hour group- workshop style, seasonal