Accessing counselling can involve different steps depending on the service or program you’re seeking. Some services can be accessed directly, while others require a referral through a partner agency.

This page explains how referrals and intake work at Connect Counselling & Therapy Society, and what you can expect at each stage.

Do I Need a Referral?

Whether or not you need a referral depends on the type of counselling you are seeking.

• Fee-for-Service Counselling
  No referral is required. You may book online or contact our office to get started.

   

• Low-Cost Counselling
  No referral is required. Low-cost services cannot be booked online and are arranged through our office. Availability is limited and waitlists may apply.

   

• Free & Funded Counselling Programs
  Many free and funded programs require a referral from a partner agency or government service. Our team can help clarify what is required and what your next step should be.

Referral-Based Programs

Some counselling programs at Connect are accessed through formal referral pathways. This is often due to program funding requirements, eligibility criteria, or centralized intake systems.

Free and funded referral-based programs may include:

• Adult Short-Term Mental Health Counselling
  Referrals are typically made through the Adult Mental Health intake system.

   

• Child, Youth & Family Counselling
  Referrals are typically coordinated through Child and Youth Mental Health services.

   

• Child and Youth Sexually Intrusive Behaviours Counselling
  Access is coordinated through a partner referral process.

Programs That Do Not Require a Referral

Some services are self-referred, and allow individuals to contact Connect directly to begin the intake process.

• Stop the Violence Counselling Program (Women’s Program)
  Women who are currently experiencing or have experienced physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in an intimate relationship or during childhood may contact our office directly to inquire about services or be added to a waitlist.

How the Referral Process Works

If a referral is required, the process generally follows these steps:

• Step 1: Connect with the referral source
  You contact the appropriate intake or referral service (for example, Adult Mental Health or Child & Youth Mental Health).

   

• Step 2: Intake and eligibility
  An intake worker will complete an initial assessment and determine eligibility for services.

   

• Step 3: Referral submission
  If Connect is an appropriate service provider, the referral is sent to our agency for review.

   

• Step 4: Next steps from Connect
  Our team reviews the referral and contacts you to discuss next steps, availability, and timelines.

In some cases, referrals may be directed to another partner agency if that service is a better fit.

Intake at Connect

Once you connect with us, either directly or through a referral, our intake process helps ensure you are matched with the most appropriate service or counsellor.

Intake may include:

• Gathering basic contact and background information

   

• Understanding what support you’re seeking

   

• Confirming eligibility, urgency, and availability

Matching is guided by clinical appropriateness, program criteria, and counsellor availability, while honouring client choice wherever possible.

Waitlists & Timelines

Some programs have waitlists due to high demand or funding limitations. Our team aims to be transparent about access and timelines.

• We will let you know if a waitlist applies

   

• We will discuss estimated timelines where possible

   

• We will explore alternative options if appropriate

If You’re Not Sure Where to Start

If you’re unsure whether you need a referral, which program fits your needs, or how to begin, you’re welcome to contact our office. Our administrative team can help explain options and guide you toward the most appropriate next step.

Contact us