Qualifications

​There are many types of counsellors in BC. Some have minimal training or no graduate education, and yet they may still be members of ‘professional’ counselling organizations. On the other hand, Registered Clinical Counsellors are Master’s level educated, “professionally accountable members of the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors who meet strict academic and professional qualifications, carry professional liability insurance, and subscribe to BCACC’s Code of Ethical Conduct and Standards of Clinical Practice.” The RCC designation is your assurance that the counsellor that helps you get through a difficult time is one you can trust, and who has the training and expertise you need. All RCCs should be happy to provide you with evidence of their certification. You can also call (1-800-909-6303) or visit the BCACC website (www.bc-counsellors.org) for independent verification of member status.


What Services do Registered Clinical Counsellors Provide?

Registered Clinical Counsellors work within an Association-approved scope of practice and offer a variety of educational and mental health related services for individuals, couples, families and groups.  RCCs are qualified to help you address many mental health issues including:

  • Brief/Long Term Counselling/Therapy
  • Psychoeducational Programs
  • Vocational or Career Testing and Counselling
  • Organizational Consulting, Training and Development
  • Facilitation and Mediation
  • Clinical Teaching and Supervision
  • Employee/Family Assistance Program Management, Consulting and Delivery
  • Community Response and Critical Incident/Crisis Intervention

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What are the Benefits of Choosing a Registered Clinical Counsellor?

Registered Clinical Counsellors have successfully fulfilled requirements of Masters Degree level education, supervision and clinical experience to the satisfaction of the Association.

Some third party payment plans such as Extended Health Care Insurance and Employee/Family Assistance Programs pay partial or total coverage for counselling services.


What concerns would I bring to a Registered Clinical Counsellor?

Registered Clinical Counsellors are qualified to address many clinical mental health issues through assessment, prevention, and treatment/intervention. Some examples of concerns/issues which are appropriate to bring to a Registered Clinical Counsellor include the following (not an all-inclusive list; many specialized concerns require specific counsellor training):

  • Stress and anger management
  • Panic and anxiety
  • Depression
  • Marital and relationship problems
  • Obsessive/compulsive behavior
  • Sexual abuse or trauma
  • Grief and loss
  • Substance abuse
  • Eating disorders
  • Gender and sexuality issues
  • Child and adolescent issues
  • Communication skills/assertiveness
  • Conflict resolution
  • Life transitions or career issues
  • And many other concerns as well