Counselling
At PCFSA, we want you to feel safe, respected, and involved in decisions about your care.
Our counsellors use a trauma-informed, person-centred approach. We take the time to understand what matters to you, the strengths you already bring, and what you would like to change. Counselling is shaped around your goals, values, needs, and life rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
You are an active participant in the counselling process. Together, you and your counsellor can decide what to focus on, what approaches feel useful, and what progress looks like for you.
Our goal is to help you build on your strengths, improve wellbeing and day-to-day functioning, strengthen relationships and connections, and move toward a life that feels meaningful to you.
Counselling is available in person, online, or by phone, depending on the service and your needs. Note: Our funded counselling programs serve specific geographic areas. If you are receiving counselling online or by phone, you must live within the service area for the program and be physically located within that region at the time of your appointment.
Scope
We are not a crisis support centre and cannot respond to emergencies or acute mental health crises (Emergency and Crisis Resources). If you require specialized support beyond the scope of our programs, we will help connect you with services that better meet your needs.
Due to the high demand for services, our programs have waitlists, and so service does not begin right after your intake.
Cost
Most of our funded counselling services are provided at no cost.
We also offer Affordable Community Counselling for people who may not be eligible for one of our funded programs. Services are provided by Master’s-level practicum interns under the supervision of experienced Registered Clinical Counsellors, as well as directly by Registered Clinical Counsellors. Fees vary by service and may be covered through extended health benefits or third-party funding.
Service Area
Our funded counselling programs primarily serve the Western Communities, including Colwood, Langford, Sooke, View Royal, Metchosin, and Highlands.
Our Affordable Community Counselling program is available to residents throughout the Capital Regional District.
Eligibility and service areas vary by program, and our Intake Counsellor can help determine which service may be the best fit.
How to Get Connected
All counselling referrals begin with our Intake Counsellor. To get started, or if you have questions about which service may be right for you, contact Intake at 250-940-4373 or intake@pcfsa.org.
An intake to help us understand the person’s needs and determine whether our program can provide the right care within its mandate. When we are unable to offer services, we will do our best to suggest other appropriate supports or resources.
Intakes can be done by phone, email or in person with a scheduled appointment.