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FAQs

FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL QUESTIONS

I’ve decided to come for help . . . what do I do now?

Once a potential client provides personal information during our in-take process (which is conducted over the phone) they will receive a call from a counsellor who best suits the client’s needs within 4-8 weeks.

What are your office hours?

Niagara Life Centre operates from 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, and 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. All appointments are made by contacting our St. Catharines office at 905-934-0021.

Where are you located?

Our St. Catharines office is located at 65 Lakeshore Road, St. Catharines, Ontario L2N 2T3.

To book an appointment, call 905-934-0021.

Does it matter that I do not reside in St. Catharines or Niagara Falls?

If you are a resident in the Niagara Region, you are welcome to make an appointment with NLC.

How much does it cost to see a counsellor?

The cost to the client is $60 per session per 45 minute session. Niagara Life Centre makes a substantial contribution payment to clients towards their counselling costs. The cost to the client is kept at an affordable level with the greatest percentage continuing to be subsidized by Niagara Life Centre’s many faithful supporters. NLC will continue its commitment to serve ALL clients. If needed, arrangements for further subsidy will be made.

How much does a session cost?

Your cost: $60.00 per 45 minute session

Our cost: $100.00 per 45 minute session

How much do your group counselling programs cost?

Each group counselling program has it’s own flat rate fee that covers all sessions and materials. Please see the individual program page for more details or call our office at 905-934-0021.

Do I need a referral from a doctor or assistance program to get counselling services?

No. You can call NLC directly to make an appointment.

What kind of counselling services do you offer?

Some of the areas that we can help you with are marital (both restoration and effectively navigating family break-ups), depression, anxiety, parenting, counselling for children under 12, relationships, spiritual matters, addictions, trauma, stress, eating disorders, discouragement, household budgeting, and others. In the event that we feel we can’t provide you the best care for your personal situation, we will help connect you with an agency which can better meet your needs.

Does my health insurance cover counselling costs?

In most cases, yes. It is recommended that you check with your insurance provider.

I am not Christian, can I still get counselling?

Absolutely. NLC welcomes everyone in need of counselling regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender and financial background. We are motivated by Jesus Christ’s love for everyone to ensure individuals and families get the help they deserve in order to live happy and victorious lives.

How is your ministry funded?

NLC is primarily supported by contributions from generous donors, churches, businesses, occasional non-government grants and our annual fundraising events.

Can I arrange for counselling on behalf of a friend/family member?

An appointment can only be made by the individual who is seeking counselling except in the cases of children aged 12 years and under. The parent or legal guardian must call on behalf of their child.

Family and Child Services (FACS) require me to seek counselling. Do you work with FACS?

Yes. NLC has an established relationship with FACS and is recognized as a valid counselling provider.

I have an appointment scheduled today and there is bad weather. Am I still expected to come in?

NLC makes decisions on office closures the ‘morning of’ in the case of inclement weather. Clients scheduled for that day are called in advance to be notified of cancellations. The office will automatically be closed if school bus services are cancelled. Also feel free to check for closure announcements on this website, or our Facebook page.

What is the waiting period to get a counsellor?

Once a potential client provides personal information during our intake process (which is conducted over the phone), they will receive a call from a counsellor who best suits the client’s needs within 4-8 weeks.

I prefer a male/female counsellor. Can I choose?

You can indicate if you have a strong preference for a male or female counsellor. Great care is taken when selecting a counsellor for a client. There may be cases where either a male or female counsellor is better qualified to serve your needs. NLC will discuss any such cases with the client prior to any appointments.

What about confidentiality?

Client information is handled with the highest degree of privacy.

We will not release information to anyone without prior written consent from the individual(s) receiving counselling, except when legally obligated to report.

What kind of qualifications do your staff have?

The Niagara Life Centre network strives to engage staff with varying degrees of qualifying accreditation and/or equivocal life experiences, i.e. Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Masters in Counselling, Masters in Social Work, or another diploma, such as social work, biblical counselling certification, or child and youth work.