Online Counselling
For our community’s health and wellness, counselling sessions are available through secure video or by telephone. Online counselling can also benefit those who live in rural communities, experience busy schedules or have care-giving responsibilities. These tele-health services offer convenience, without compromising the quality of the counselling you need.
Frequently asked questions
Is online counselling effective?
Yes! Research shows that online counselling can be just as effective as face-to-face counselling sessions.
How does video counselling work?
The video platform used is similar to Facetime, Video Messenger or Skype, except it is more secure. Natasha LeBlanc Counselling & Social Work services using a platform called Jane which includes a feature to conduct video counselling sessions. It is user friendly (works on laptops, cell phones & tablets) and requires no downloading for most devices.
Is online counselling safe & secure? What are the risks?
Your confidentiality & privacy is one of my top priorities. The following are just some of the measures taken to offer secure online counselling services:
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My computer is equipped with encyption, virus protection/malware hardware, and secure passwords -
A secure internet connection is always used when conducting video sessions -
I use a landline when conducting telephone sessions to ensure security -
I use a software called Jane for video sessions, secure client messaging and file sharing. The software is compliant with provincial (Nova Scotia) & federal health protection laws in Canada, along with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act. All data transmitted on this platform is encrypted and password protected. -
Video and telephone counselling sessions are never recorded through audio or video
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There is a higher risk of information being misunderstood or construed through online counselling, especially through telephone counselling. Not being able to clearly read body language and facial expressions can contribute to this risk. You may notice that I will ask for clarification or check in with you frequently during sessions to ensure that I'm understanding you accurately. -
Although unlikely given the security measures put in place, any online platform can theorticially be compromised or "hacked". Please see the section on i ncreasing your security while engaging in online counselling. -
There is a higher risk of other household members/room mates/partners over hearing your conversation or accessing your private messages online through your at-home electronic devices. Please see section on increasing your security while engaging in online counselling. -
Noise and interruptions are a possiblity. There is also potential for equippment or technology malfunction to occur in the middle of sessions. In this case, I will always attempt to reconnect with you.
How much does it cost?
Adult Counselling (19+): Online or telephone sessions cost $160 per 50 minute session (the same as face-to-face sessions). This is the minium rate recommended by the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers for master level clinicans.
How do I book an appointment?
You can book an appointment mutliple ways.
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You can book directly online by clicking here. Please be advised that you will be sent an email confirmation of your appointment day & time if you book through my website via Jane Software. If you need direction on booking online follow the guide at this link: https://jane.app/guide/online-booking/booking-an-appointment-online-for-patients -
By calling the office number: 902-562-742. Allow up to 2 business days for me to return your call. -
Through the secure contact form at the bottom of this page. Please note that if you ask me to respond via email-it is a less secure way of communicating.