Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SMART Conflict Package?

Our most effective and efficient strategy for couples who are tired of having frustrating fights that go nowhere.

The package includes:

• Lifetime access to our online course SMART Conflict for Couples.

• Support and coaching through all 6 modules of the course.

• 6 hour long couples counselling sessions to get to the heart of your issues.

A total value of over $1500.00 CAD for $1300.00 CAD.

Is the SMART Conflict Package covered under my insurance benefits?

Yes! Because access to the course is included in the session fee, we are able to provide receipts that you can use when redeeming your extended health benefits.

How do I schedule a counselling appointment?

You can schedule an appointment with Will Bratt or Laura Brown by email or phone.

Email Will Bratt at will@heartandoaktherapy.com

Call Will Bratt at 250-661-2212

You can also book counselling appointments online!

What does counselling at Heart & Oak cost?

Individual counselling sessions: 60 minutes/$155.00

Couples counselling sessions: 60 minutes/$185.00

Our counselling services are subject to 5% GST.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept payment via debit, Interac etransfer, Visa, Mastercard, cash or cheque.

All payments made via credit card are subject to an additional processing fee equal to the fees charged by our point of sale company.

Will my insurance or extended health benefits cover counselling?

Health benefit providers differ significantly from company to company and even plan to plan.  To find out if your coverage will include counselling at Heart & Oak, contact your provider and provide them with the following information:

Will Bratt holds a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology.
He is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors
His RCC number is 18755.

Laura Brown holds a Masters of Counselling degree, and is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors.

Her RCC number is 13562

Do you offer direct billing to insurance?

We now offer direct billing to the following health insurance providers:

• Manulife

• ClaimSecure

• Beneva

• Adjudicare

• Equitable

• Johnson

• Johnston Group

• The Public Service Health Care Plan

• Canadian Construction Workers Union

• D.A. Townley

• Industrial Alliance

• The People Corporation

• Chamber of Commerce

• RWAM

• ESC

• BPA

• GMS

• Group Health

• Group Source

• Manion

• MDM Insurance

• Simply Benefits

• Union Benefits

• UV Insurance

• Coughlin

• Cowan

• Maximum Benefit

• CINUP

• First Canadian

• Alberta Blue Cross

If your benefit provider is not listed, but your plan covers Registered Clinical Counsellors, you can still claim your sessions by submitting receipts for reimbursement.

How often should I see my therapist?

Because everyone has different preferences and factors to consider when deciding how often to meet with their counsellor, there is no universally “right” answer to this question.

On average, most people will meet with their therapist on a weekly basis for the first 4-6 sessions, and then gradually meet less frequently.

Both Laura Brown and Will Bratt approach arranging the frequency of sessions in a collaborative way that suits your life, finances, and other commitments.

What is your confidentiality policy?

At Heart & Oak, our confidentiality policy is in line with the industry standard.  The bottom line is, everything we talk about will stay confidential between you and your therapist.  The only reason we would need to break confidentiality is if:

1. You share knowledge of any child or vulnerable adult being subjected to abuse or neglect.

2. You disclose an immediate intention to end your life (suicide) or the life of another person (homicide).

3. If you’re involved in a legal matter and the court subpoenas your file.

What is your cancellation policy?

At Heart & Oak Therapy, we have a 48 hour cancellation policy.  We ask that you contact us by phone or email at least 48 hours before your scheduled appointment if you know you need to cancel or reschedule.

If you don't show up to a counselling appointment, or if you cancel with less than 48 hours notice, we ask that you cover the full session rate for the missed appointment.

If you are unable to attend a scheduled appointment because of emergency circumstances that are outside of your control (such as illness, accidents, and family emergencies), we understand and do not request that you cover the cancellation fee.