Q. What therapeutic approach do you use?

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A. I use a personalized approach tailored to each client's needs, specializing in addiction, trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and age-related issues.

I employ a variety of techniques, including cognitive reframing, grounding, positive psychology, self-esteem building, self-monitoring, visualization, exposure therapy, and assertiveness training.

I integrate therapeutic approaches such as client-centered therapy, EMDR, CBT, behavioral therapy, emotionally focused therapy, logotherapy, and art therapy to suit individual needs.

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Q. How do I know that this will work for me?

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 A. Determining whether therapy will work for you depends on various factors, and it's not always easy to predict outcomes. However, several indicators can increase the likelihood of therapy being effective:

1. Willingness to Engage: A positive attitude and genuine willingness to engage in the therapeutic process are crucial. Openness to change and a commitment to self-improvement are good signs.

2. Strong Therapeutic Alliance: A trusting and collaborative relationship between you and your therapist is fundamental. Feeling comfortable and understood by your therapist can enhance the therapeutic experience.

3. Therapist Competence: Ensuring your therapist is qualified, licensed, and experienced in addressing your specific concerns is important. Research their credentials and ask questions about their approach.

4. Clear Goals: Setting clear, achievable goals with your therapist helps you track progress and measure success. Discuss your expectations and desired outcomes openly.

5. Consistency: Attending sessions regularly and consistently is essential. Missing sessions or being inconsistent with your commitment may hinder progress.

6. Active Participation: Active involvement in therapy, including completing homework assignments or practicing techniques learned in sessions, can significantly impact the effectiveness of therapy.

7. Patience: Understand that therapy is not a quick fix. It takes time to see substantial changes. Be patient with yourself and the process.

8. Feedback and Communication: Provide feedback to your therapist about what is and isn't working for you. Effective communication can help your therapist tailor the approach to your needs.

9. Realistic Expectations: Have realistic expectations about the pace of progress and the extent of change achievable. Therapy often involves gradual improvement.

10. Exploration: Be open to exploring deeper issues and emotions. Sometimes, the most profound changes occur when you're willing to delve into challenging or uncomfortable areas.

11. Self-Reflection: Engage in self-reflection outside of therapy sessions. Practice self-awareness and apply what you learn in therapy to your daily life.

12. Support System: Engage with your support network, such as friends and family, to complement the work done in therapy.

Remember that therapy is a collaborative effort between you and your therapist. While there are no guarantees of success, a proactive and committed approach, along with the right therapist, can significantly increase the likelihood of therapy being effective in addressing your concerns and improving your well-being. If you find that a particular therapist or approach isn't working for you, don't hesitate to explore other options until you find the right fit for your needs.

 

Q. What will happen during sessions?

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A. During Therapy Sessions

In the initial session, known as the intake process, the therapist will gather information about you to understand your background, concerns, and goals. This forms the basis for developing a case conceptualization and setting initial therapy goals.

In subsequent sessions, you'll engage in discussions about your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. The focus will be on exploring ways to cope with and address your challenges more effectively over the long term. Your therapy goals will be continually reviewed and adjusted as needed to ensure progress and alignment with your evolving needs and objectives.

 

Q. How long are sessions?

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A. Session Length

Regular therapy sessions typically last 50 minutes. However, for assessments, sessions can be longer, usually ranging from 1 to 2 hours. The duration of an assessment session may vary depending on the type of assessment being conducted.

 

Q. How many sessions will I need? 

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A. Number of Sessions

The number of sessions you'll need depends on the specific issue or concern you're addressing. Natasha, your therapist, will be happy to discuss and determine the expected number of sessions needed to achieve your goals. Additionally, she can explore ways to make your treatment as efficient and effective as possible. It's a personalized approach tailored to your unique needs.

 

Q. Will you tell  people what I talk about. Can that happen? 

 

A. Confidentiality Guidelines

Confidentiality is a fundamental principle at MOOD, with adherence to the ethical standards of both the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors and the British Columbia College of Social Workers. However, it's important to note that the Privacy Act does not guarantee an absolute right to privacy.

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If you choose to communicate via email, please be aware that it is not entirely confidential, and every email will be stored, printed, and placed in your file.

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Online counseling is conducted through an encrypted and secure video system, ensuring the privacy of your sessions. The therapist does not consent to being recorded or shared at any time.

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Additionally, if you have specific preferences or boundaries regarding physical contact, such as simple touches on the hand or arm, please inform the therapist before counselling begins. For children or youth attending counseling, obtaining consent from both parents is required under BC's new Family Law Act 4. Your privacy and comfort are highly respected and considered in the therapeutic process.

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Q. What are your fees, and are they covered by MSP or other insurance? 

 

A. Therapy/counseling services are not covered by the provincial Medical Services Plan. As of April 1, 2021, Natasha Pittman charges $150, plus tax per 50-minute session, while couples counseling is $175 plus tax. EMDR therapy is billed at $160 per hour, plus tax.

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Natasha Pittman holds the designations of a Registered Social Worker and Registered Clinical Counselor, both of which are generally accepted by most extended health plans. It is advisable to review your benefits package for coverage details. In cases of car accidents, ICBC may cover the cost of sessions.

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Natasha is a recognized service provider for various organizations, including the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), Victim Crime Assistance Program (CVAP), ICBC, and numerous Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs). Depending on your situation, you may also be eligible to claim therapy costs on your tax return.

 

Q. Do you do hormone readiness assessments ?

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A. Natasha is registered with Transcare BC and provides Hormone Readiness assessments. The fee for this service is the same as for an individual session, which is $150 plus tax. Additionally, there is a charge of $80 plus tax for the assessment report.

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Q. What if I need services that you don't provide?

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A. Natasha does not provide diagnoses. However, we are happy to offer referrals to other resources and community services as needed.