Myths & Facts about Counselling

Fact: Many people do go to counselling when they are struggling with something. Life can be stressful, relationships can have conflict and we can struggle with how to handle situations. That doesn’t mean that something is wrong, more that it would be helpful to talk it through with someone. Counselling can give new perspectives, help build problem solving capacity, improve tolerance and resilience- even without something being ‘wrong.’
Fact: Talking to someone, sharing what you’re experiencing- that takes courage. Starting and sticking with counselling takes heart work and dedication.
Fact: Counselling is protected by multiple laws like the XXXX and XXXX. Your counsellor cannot disclose your information others, or even acknowledge that you are in counselling, unless legally required to do so, if you give your permission, or ethically required to do so.
Examples: If a child is being abused, British Columbia has mandatory reporting laws that require counsellors to contact Ministry of Family Services (MCFD) and/or the police.
Fact: Nope! Your counsellor is YOUR counsellor. Your counselling session is protected by the same privacy laws.
As long as you are safe (not hurting yourself/engaging in suicidal behaviours, someone isn’t hurting you), your counselor is obligated to protect your privacy.
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