Frequently asked questions

You can book a complimentary 15-minute consultation to see if Erica is the right fit. During this call, you can:

• Ask about Erica’s professional and educational background
• Learn about her approach to therapy or coaching
• Share what prompted you to seek support (optional)

Erica is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors and a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). These designations limit where she is authorized to practise.

If you are travelling within or outside Canada or are away from your address listed on your client profile, please inform your therapist of your location at the beginning of each session. If you relocate outside of Canada, your therapist may not be able to continue providing care. If services must end due to jurisdictional limits, your therapist will support you in identifying appropriate resources in your new location.

No. Rising Minds Counselling and Psychotherapy is a Canadian virtual practice and is not affiliated with similarly named practices in the United States.

Coaching

• Goal-focused and directive
• Not regulated; no Master's degree required
• Not designed for mental health treatment
• Not typically covered by insurance
• Does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions

Registered Counselling & Psychotherapy

• Regulated in BC (RCC) and Ontario (RP)
• Master's-level training
• Evidence-based, non-directive, supportive, reflective, and collaborative
• May be reimbursed by extended benefits
• Do not provide formal psychological diagnoses

Registered Psychologists

• Doctoral- or master’s-level training (varies by province)
• Can diagnose and conduct formal assessments
• Typically higher fee structure

Our Commitment: Erica is registered with her professional bodies (BCACC and CRPO), is a member in good standing, and carries appropriate professional liability insurance. Erica does not provide psychological diagnoses, prescribe medication, or conduct formal psychological assessments.

For more information, contact:

• BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) – 1-800-909-6303
• BC College of Psychologists – 1-800-665-0979
• College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) – crpo.ca

• A safe, confidential space to explore thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and relationships
• Support for self-understanding, coping skills, and resilience
• Evidence-based guidance for personal growth Note: Results cannot be guaranteed; therapy effectiveness depends on engagement and external circumstances.

Erica provides evidence-based counselling and psychotherapy. She does not diagnose, prescribe medication, or provide medical/legal advice. She follows CRPO or BCACC standards, ethical codes, and professional guidelines.

If your therapist determines that your needs fall outside their scope of practice or clinical competence, this will be discussed with you openly and respectfully. When appropriate, referrals to qualified professionals or specialized services will be provided.

Being trauma-informed means we recognize that many individuals have experienced adversity, loss, or overwhelming life events — even if they do not identify them as "trauma."

We prioritize emotional safety, choice, autonomy, collaboration, trust, and empowerment in every session. You are never pressured to share details before you feel ready. We move at a pace that respects your nervous system, capacity, and consent.

Erica’s training includes trauma-informed approaches and an understanding of how traumatic experiences can affect emotions, relationships, behaviour and physiological responses. We aim to avoid re-traumatization by maintaining clear boundaries, transparency, and sensitivity to power dynamics. You remain in control of your therapeutic journey at all times.

Counselling and psychotherapy often emphasize collaboration, reflection and client autonomy rather than telling you what decisions to make, and are designed to support your self-trust rather than create dependence. Rather than giving direct advice, your therapist helps you explore your values, patterns, emotions, and options. Lasting change is often more meaningful when it comes from your own insight and clarity.

She may offer education, coping tools, or perspectives — but decisions remain yours. This approach is intended to support autonomy, reflection and confidence in your own decision-making. If you would like more structure or practical guidance, you are encouraged to discuss this openly — therapy is collaborative.

Therapy is intentionally centred on you and your needs. Professional boundaries help maintain a safe, focused, and ethical therapeutic relationship. Limited self-disclosure may be used when clinically helpful, but it is done thoughtfully. Sharing too much personal information can shift attention away from the client or blur boundaries.

You are always welcome to ask about your therapist's training, approach, or professional experience.

It can feel confusing or even frustrating when your therapist doesn't share a clear opinion about what you "should" do. Therapy is designed to support your clarity, values, and decision-making — not replace them. Offering strong personal opinions could unintentionally influence your choices or put pressure on you.

Decisions that emerge from your own reflection tend to feel more grounded and sustainable over time. This approach respects your autonomy and strengthens your confidence in navigating future challenges independently. If you ever feel stuck or need help thinking through options, you are encouraged to say so — therapy is a collaborative space.

Informed consent means you agree to participate in therapy freely and knowingly. You have the right to ask questions, share feedback, and withdraw consent at any time. Consent may be required from a parent, guardian, or authorized decision-maker if the client is a minor or legally incapacitated.

It ensures you understand the services being offered, know your rights as a client, and can make an informed choice about participating in therapy.

An informed consent agreement will be presented to you. It is your responsibility to review it thoroughly and ask any questions. Your therapist will review the agreement in session. Your consent must be given freely and knowingly.

You can choose which activities or interventions to participate in. You may end therapy at any time or request a referral to another therapist. You are encouraged to ask questions or share feedback at any time.

Yes. You may withdraw consent at any time. You may also stop participating in any activity or intervention, end therapy entirely, or request referrals and transition support.

• Attend sessions regularly and communicate openly
• Engage actively and participate in interventions
• Ask questions and share feedback to ensure therapy is aligned with your goals
• Take responsibility for your well-being outside of sessions
• Keep financial accounts with Rising Minds up to date
• Inform your therapist if attending from outside your home location or province
• Maintain privacy and device security for online sessions
• Ensure a private and safe setting for sessions
• Use email only for administrative matters

Absolutely — finding the right fit matters most. If Erica isn’t the right therapist for you, she can provide referrals to other qualified professionals and support a smooth transition.

Yes, with consent and collaboration. Sessions with couples, families, or youth may involve multiple participants while maintaining confidentiality for each individual.

Research suggests virtual therapy can be effective for many clients and concerns, including anxiety, depression, and stress (Andersson et al., 2014; Backhaus et al., 2012; Varker et al., 2019), although suitability depends on your individual needs and circumstances. Results cannot be guaranteed, just as with in-person sessions.

Potential benefits may include:

• Strong therapeutic alliance comparable to in-person sessions
• Reduced stigma: participate from home, avoiding perceived judgment
• Convenience & time savings: no travel required, easier scheduling
• Accessibility: may improve access for some rural clients or people with mobility or transportation barriers
• Improved attendance and engagement

Important: Virtual therapy may not be suitable if you are experiencing severe mental health symptoms, are in crisis or at risk of harm, or require immediate medical care.

Online therapy carries some inherent privacy and security risks, including unauthorized access, technical failures, or connectivity issues. Sessions may be interrupted due to internet outages; in this case, sessions may be completed by phone.

Online therapy may not be suitable for individuals experiencing severe mental health crises, risk of self-harm or harm to others, or requiring immediate medical attention.

You are responsible for participating from a private, secure location and maintaining device security (e.g., passwords, updated software, firewalls).

• Find a private, quiet space
• Ensure a stable internet connection if using video
• Bring materials you would like to discuss (journals, notes, worksheets)
• Be ready to reflect and share what matters most to you

For technical issues, your therapist will attempt to reconnect within 2 minutes. If not possible, the session may continue by phone or be rescheduled. In emergencies, contact local services first, then notify your therapist.

All discussions are private, except when disclosure is required by law or ethics (e.g., risk of harm, court orders, clinical supervision). Online sessions carry inherent privacy risks; we use the NousTalk platform, which is encrypted and confidential. Session recordings are only for supervision, with written consent, and are securely deleted afterward. Unauthorized client recording is prohibited.

• Client information is stored securely in the NousTalk platform, which is encrypted and confidential
• Only authorized staff and your therapist's supervisor (for supervision purposes) may access records
• Session recordings are used only for supervision, with separate written consent, and are securely deleted afterward
• Unauthorized client recording is strictly prohibited

Records are stored securely for the period required by the applicable regulatory college (BCACC and/or CRPO). Only your therapist and authorized staff/personnel can access your records. Records will not be shared without your consent, except as required by law (e.g., risk of harm, court orders).

In the unlikely event that your therapist becomes incapacitated or passes away, a designated professional may access client records to ensure continuity of care. You retain the right to request access to your records or be referred to another qualified therapist. A fee will be applied for the time required to complete the transfer.

Rising Minds does not provide legal advice or court assessments unless explicitly agreed in writing. A fee will apply. Therapy records may be subpoenaed; clients are informed if this occurs.

Session Fees

Individual Counselling

• 50-minute session: $170
• 80-minute session: $225

Couples Counselling

• 50-minute session: $200
• 80-minute session: $265

Family Counselling

• 50-minute session: $230
• 80-minute session: $305

Group Counselling
(when group programs are available)

• 60-minute session: $115

Effective August 2026
Fees are subject to change with notice.

A sliding fee scale may be available for clients experiencing financial hardship. Sliding scales are set for an 8-week period, and renewal is at the therapist’s discretion and based on availability/demand

Payment via credit card through our secure NousTalk platform. Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice: 100% fee. Missed appointments: 100% fee.

Counselling is not covered by provincial health plans, but some extended health insurance plans may reimburse. Clients submit their own claims.

We require at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice, and missed appointments, are charged the full session fee.

We recommend confirming any cancellation or change directly with us rather than relying solely on voicemail or email.

From time to time, your therapist may offer worksheets, questionnaires, or assessments. Participation is voluntary. Tools are used to support therapy, not to diagnose.

You'll usually begin with weekly or bi-weekly sessions to build connection, establish trust, and create momentum. As therapy progresses, sessions may become less frequent, guided by your goals and your therapist's clinical recommendations.

Some evidence-based therapies are short-term and goal-focused. Other concerns may benefit from longer-term support. Treatment planning is collaborative — we will regularly review your goals, progress, and session frequency.

Rising Minds does not directly bill or contract with WCB, ICBC, or other third-party insurance providers. Clients are responsible for payment at the time of service. If your insurer allows reimbursement, you may submit receipts on your own. We recommend confirming eligibility with your insurer before booking.

While clients are responsible for payment at the time of service, many extended health benefit plans in BC provide partial or full reimbursement for sessions with Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC), Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC), Registered Psychotherapists (if applicable), and pre-licensed therapists practicing under supervision (where permitted).

Insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. We recommend confirming with your insurer which professional designations are covered, annual coverage limits, and per-session reimbursement amounts. Private psychotherapy services are not covered by MSP.

Many extended health benefit plans in Ontario provide partial or full reimbursement for sessions with Registered Psychotherapists (RP), Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying) — RP(Q) — Canadian Certified Counsellors (CCC), and pre-licensed therapists practising under supervision (where permitted).

Erica practises as a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Insurance coverage varies by provider and policy. We recommend confirming with your insurer which professional designations are covered, annual coverage limits, and per-session reimbursement amounts. Private psychotherapy services are not covered by OHIP.

BC211 – Free 24/7 service connecting people with local support services. Dial 2-1-1 or visit bc.211.ca Here2Talk – Free, confidential 24/7 support for BC post-secondary students. Visit here2talk.ca Now Matters Now – Free tools and resources. nowmattersnow.org

Crisis Lines:

• BC Mental Health Support Line – 310-6789 (no area code needed)
• KUU-US Indigenous Crisis Line – 1-800-588-8717
• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline – call or text 9-8-8 (available 24/7)
• Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868

Lower-cost counselling may also be available in BC through community agencies, non-profit organizations and supervised graduate-intern clinics.

ConnexOntario – Free mental health, addiction, and gambling support. 1-866-531-2600 | connexontario.ca

9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline – call or text 9-8-8 (24/7)

Kids Help Phone – 1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868

Good2Talk – Post-secondary student support. 1-866-925-5454 | good2talk.ca Now Matters Now – nowmattersnow.org

Lower-cost counselling options: Many community agencies, non-profits and supervised graduate-intern clinics offer reduced-cost services.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

Dual relationships (social, financial, business) outside therapy are avoided. Gifts and non-therapeutic interactions follow ethical guidelines. Erica will not communicate with clients via social media.

Yes. Therapy is culturally responsive and inclusive, and you are welcome to share aspects of your identity, beliefs, culture or traditions that feel relevant to your care. Your background is treated as part of the whole picture, not something to be set aside.

Either client or therapist may end therapy at any time. If therapy ends due to scope, availability, or clinical reasons, referrals or transition support will be provided.

Rising Minds does not provide emergency crisis services. In crisis, call:

• 911 for life-threatening situations
• 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: call or text 9-8-8

Erica may contact emergency services or your emergency contact if you are at risk of harm.

Rising Minds and Rise Today Consulting Corp do not provide medical, psychiatric, or legal services, and therapy is not a substitute for these services. Clients are responsible for their decisions or actions taken outside therapy sessions. Therapy outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Emergency situations should be addressed by calling 911 or the appropriate local crisis services. Clients are responsible for maintaining the privacy and security of their environment and technology during online sessions.

Erica does not prepare formal custody or access reports, including Section 15 Custody and Access Reports. She does not provide court-ordered custody evaluations or act as an expert witness in family court proceedings.

Her role is therapeutic. Erica may review existing court documents to better understand family context. We may assist families with developing parenting plans, improving communication, exploring parenting concerns within a therapeutic framework, and supporting children through transitions.

If you require a formal custody assessment or expert report, we recommend obtaining a referral through your lawyer or requesting one from a qualified custody assessor.

Rising Minds does not provide legal advice or court assessments unless explicitly agreed in writing. A fee will apply. Therapy records may be subpoenaed; clients are informed if this occurs.

You are encouraged to first share concerns with your therapist and also with our clinic director, Erica Harris.

Ontario (CRPO): complaints@crpo.ca | 416-479-4330 (Option 4) BC (BCACC): 1-800-909-6303 | hoffice@bcacc.ca | complaints.bcacc.ca