Question 1

What can I help with?

Accepted Answer

I have professional training to help with:

Anxiety
Depression
Grief and loss
Sleep difficulties
Life adjustments and decisions
University/ academic challenges
Health decisions and changes
Addiction
Relationship issues
Family life
Phobias
Marriage and relationship challenges

Question 2

What ages of clients do you see?

Accepted Answer

I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan (18 years and older) and have training to support the needs of individuals in a wide range of life stages from emerging adulthood to older age.

Question 3

How to get to the office

Accepted Answer

The office is located in within Evergreen Office Services in the upper parking lot at 550 -2950 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8T 4N4

Dr. Williams office: 
Walk through front entrance. Take a few steps inside and you will see stairs striaght ahead, or elevators on the right. The waiting area with seats is near reception. I will be right out to get you when our session begins.

There is free 3 hour parking located throughout the parking lot (accessible from Douglas st or Burnside rd.

Question 4

Can I book online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. It’s quick and easy to book in person or virtual (telephone or Zoom video) sessions. Click here to create your profile on the Jane App and select available times.

If you are new, send an email to dr_ericwilliams@outlook.com and we will arrange a 15 minute consult.

Question 5

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

Enter a credit card to your encrypted/ secure profile when booking in the Jane App/ Website.

When your session is complete you will be billed and sent a receipt to your chosen email. If you do not have a credit card, e-transfer is also available.

Question 6

Is counselling covered under my insurance/ health care plan?

Accepted Answer

Most health care plans have coverage for mental health services. It is important to verify that your policy covers treatment with an RCC (registered clinical counsellor). On rare occasions some policies only have coverage for R Psych (clinical psychologists). With this said, most cover both RCC and R Psych visits.

Question 7

Do you offer direct billing for insurance?

Accepted Answer

Direct billing to insurance is not available at present. You are still fully able to claim your insurance/ health coverage for your appointment, provided your policy has coverage for an RCC.

You will be emailed a receipt after each session. Send it to your care provider and you will be reimbursed according to your plan.

Question 8

What therapy approach do you use?

Accepted Answer

An experienced and capable therapist should adapt to the needs of each person they support. I utilize several evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), and Person Centered Therapy. The format of therapy should always be something that feels right, and is something we can talk about together to maximize what can be achieved together.

Question 9

What is therapy like?

Accepted Answer

With a few minor exceptions, it isn’t like you see on TV or movies - you won’t be laying on a couch! The process is different for each person. In general we explore what feels important to work toward, and then use a both ‘art and science’ to get there. Therapy may involve both laughter or tears at times, but always will embrace unconditional respect and intention. I was once told that “good therapy can be a gentle push, or a comforting pat on the back.. and often both are required to make meaningful change.” Your life situation will be handled with care and support as we pursue your vision of wellness, whether it requires validation, acceptance, or adjustment.

Question 10

How will I know if we are a good fit?

Accepted Answer

It is very important to feel as though you are in the right place when reaching out for support. Research has repeatedly shown that connection and trust with a mental health professional are main factors leading to positive outcomes. I couldn't agree more.

As such, I am happy to provide a free 15 minute ‘get to know’ consultation, giving the opportunity to connect and learn. By the end we will have a better idea of how we might work together. If it isn’t the right fit for any reason, I'll offer suggestions for where you might look next. if it is a fit we will book our first session together and get to work on whatever feels important.

Email me here to arrange for our 15 minute consult. I'll be happy to make time for our meeting.

Question 11

How long are the sessions and how long will it take to see change?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are typically 60 minutes, though sometimes session lengths are changed (longer or shorter) to best achieve our goals. No two people will have the same problem, way of coping, or life factors.  As a result, the number of sessions it takes to see change can vary. Sometimes it occurs quickly (2-3 sessions), other times it takes a bit longer or ongoing supports. I respect the time and energy investment you are making. We will work efficiently and with purpose, while respecting the growth process.

Question 12

Is my information confidential?

Accepted Answer

Therapy is an important process where trust and safety is extremely important. The field of mental health has ethical guidelines and statutes which are designed to ensure that your information is protected to the highest degree possible. Your personal information or even the fact that you are seeing a practitioner is confidential in almost all circumstances unless you decide/ consent to have your information shared (for example, with another healthcare provider). Session notes are kept in locked or encrypted files, and are HIPPA compliant. In short - you control your information, as it should be.

Question 13

What is an RCC?

Accepted Answer

A registered Clinical Counsellor is an individual who has attained a level of training (typically a Masters or Doctorate) and demonstrated a standard of professionalism that qualifies them to be registered within a professional governing body. This is an important ‘gate keeping’ measure which helps to ensure a high standard of professional and ethical competence in the field. To learn more you can visit the BCACC website.

Question 14

Do you offer a sliding scale?

Accepted Answer

In an attempt to increase accessibility and meet the needs of vulnerable citizens a sliding scale is available to those who can demonstrate financial hardship. Emails inquiring about special circumstance lowered cost sessions can be sent to: dr_ericwilliams@outlook.com

Please note that while offered with the best of intentions, these lower cost appointment availabilities are limited and not guaranteed.

Question 15

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Changing or cancelling an appointment may be required on occasion. Doing so 48 hours before our session takes place allows everyone to readjust without issue. If repeated short notice (less than 24 hours away from the appointment time) or no-shows occur you may be billed for some or all of your session. These kinds of situations are rare and will always have lots of good communication and problem solving efforts take place before it gets to that point so there are no surprises.

Question 16

Do you create a safe space?

Accepted Answer

Creating a safe space for those seeking support is crucial, and something I take to heart. Every human deserves unconditional presence and acceptance. You are welcome, wanted, and will be treated with dignity during our time together. This sentiment comes from ongoing training related to supporting individuals with forms of diversity as well my own personal beliefs about the worth of each person. I am and will continue to be an ally, and will do my best to ensure our time together feels safe.

Frequently Asked Questions