How Counselling at Connect Works
Starting counselling can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to begin. At Connect Counselling & Therapy Society, our goal is to make the process as clear, supportive, and approachable as possible.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out. We’re here to help you take the next step, at your pace.
Step 1: Reaching Out
The first step is simply getting in touch. You can:
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Contact our office by phone or email
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Reach out with questions before booking
You do not need a referral to access most services, unless you are seeking a specific funded program that requires one.
Step 2: Understanding Your Options
Connect offers several pathways to counselling, depending on your needs, circumstances, and availability. These may include:
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Fee-for-service counselling
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Low-cost counselling
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Free or funded counselling programs
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Group counselling and workshops
Our administrative team can help explain these options and guide you toward the most appropriate service.
Step 3: Intake and Matching
Once you connect with us, we’ll gather some basic information to understand:
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What you’re seeking support for
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Any specific needs or preferences
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Availability and urgency
We do our best to match clients with a counsellor or program that aligns with their needs. Matching is always guided by clinical appropriateness, availability, and client choice where possible.
Step 4: Appointments and Scheduling
Counselling sessions may be offered:
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In person at our Kelowna office
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Virtually, depending on the service and counsellor
Appointment frequency and duration will be discussed with your counsellor and can be adjusted as needed.
Referrals and Funded Programs
Some counselling programs are funded through government or community partnerships and may require a referral or meet specific eligibility criteria.
If a referral is required, our team will let you know:
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What documentation is needed
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How to obtain it
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What to expect next
We aim to be transparent about timelines and waitlists and will discuss alternative options whenever possible.
Confidentiality and Professional Standards
All counselling services at Connect are confidential and provided by qualified professionals who meet ethical and professional standards.
Your privacy, dignity, and safety are central to our work.
If You’re Not Sure Where to Start
It’s completely okay to feel uncertain about what kind of counselling you need—or whether counselling is right for you at all.
If you’re unsure, we invite you to reach out. Our team can help answer questions and support you in finding the best next step.
Care that connects us all
At Connect Counselling & Therapy Society, we believe mental health care is built through relationship, community, and shared responsibility.
Whether you are seeking counselling support, looking to give back, or interested in partnering with us, there are many ways to connect with the work we do.
Every counselling session, donation, and partnership helps strengthen access to care across our community.