Services · Relation d’aide
Individual supportive counselling (relation d’aide)
A space for you
Support that gives you a space for listening, encouragement and reflection, in a confidential and non-judgmental setting, so you can better understand what you are going through and move forward at your own pace.
Book an individual session
Session details
- Fee
- CA$90No tax
- Length
- 50 minutesFirst appointment: allow 60 minutes, including the additional 10 minutes.
- Format
- at the clinic · by video call
What is relation d’aide?
Relation d’aide, which we call supportive counselling in English, is designed to offer a space for listening, support and reflection. It helps you better understand what you are experiencing, put words to your emotions and needs, and it supports you along your personal path, at your own pace.
In an individual session, the space is entirely yours. You choose what you want to talk about; Sarah-Kim listens, asks questions that may shed light on your thinking, and walks alongside you without steering you in a set direction.
When might it help?
You don’t need to be in crisis to reach out. Supportive counselling can be helpful, for example, when you:
- are going through a change or transition (work, family, grief, a move);
- feel overwhelmed and need to step back;
- want to better understand your reactions, emotions or needs;
- would like some time for yourself to think out loud, without judgment;
- are trying to get clear on a decision or a direction.
What happens during a session
The first meeting is a chance to get to know each other: what brings you in, what you hope to get from the process and how you would like to work. Sarah-Kim also explains how relation d’aide works, including confidentiality and its limits.
Later sessions are shaped with you. There is no set number of meetings: you can take stock along the way and decide, based on your needs, whether to continue, space out your sessions or wrap up.
What supportive counselling is not
Relation d’aide is not psychotherapy. It is not meant to diagnose or treat a mental disorder. If your situation calls for that kind of care, it is best to consult an authorized professional; your doctor or 811 can point you in the right direction.
It is not an emergency service either. If you are in distress, call 811 (Info-Social) to speak with a counsellor. In case of immediate danger, call 911.
Practical information
Sessions take place in a calm, private setting. Details for each option are shown in the calendar before you confirm.
- Format: in person, at the clinic in Sainte-Élisabeth-de-Warwick. Videoconference may be offered depending on the service; available formats are shown when you book.
- Length and fee: see the session details at the top of this page; they are shown again when you book.
- Address: 268, 4e Rang Ouest, Sainte-Élisabeth-de-Warwick (Québec) J0A 1B0.
- Remote sessions: plan for a quiet, private spot where you can speak freely.
Booking, rescheduling or cancelling
Choose “Individual supportive counselling” in the calendar, then pick a time that is actually available. You won’t be asked to describe your situation in detail when booking.
To reschedule or cancel, please do so at least 24 hours ahead using the personal link in your email or your client area, or call the clinic at 819-469-7185.
Your answers stay private
You may be offered an intake form in your secure client area. You decide what you want to share in it.
Only Sarah-Kim can see your answers, and they are stored securely.
A first visit, step by step
- Pick a time in the calendar; no detailed explanation is required.
- If you wish, fill out the intake form in your client area.
- Please be on time for your appointment; if your session is remote, settle into a quiet spot.
- Take time to get acquainted and share what brings you in, at your own pace.
Frequently asked questions
How is relation d’aide different from psychotherapy?
Relation d’aide offers a space for listening, support and reflection. It is not psychotherapy: it does not aim to diagnose or treat a mental disorder. If your situation calls for that kind of care, it is best to consult an authorized professional.
Do I need to know exactly what I want to talk about?
No. It is perfectly fine to come in with only a vague sense of things, or simply a need to set down what you are carrying. The first session is there to help you sort it out together.
How many sessions should I plan for?
There is no fixed number. You can take stock along the way and decide, based on your needs, whether to continue, space out your sessions or bring the process to a close.
Is what I say kept confidential?
Yes, relation d’aide takes place in a confidential setting. The limits of that confidentiality set out by law, for example if someone is in danger, are explained to you from the start.
Can I have a session by videoconference?
Videoconference may be offered depending on the service. The available formats are shown when you book, and you choose the one that suits you.
What if I need help right now?
Relation d’aide is not an emergency service. In Québec, call 811 (Info-Social) to speak with a counsellor, or 911 in case of immediate danger.
