FAQs

    • #ReachOutSaltSpring is a network of professional holistic practitioners that offer free mental wellness services. #ReachOutSaltSpring functions to provide barrier-free access to holistic mental health support for vulnerable Salt Spring Island community members.

    • Yes. We have recruited practitioners that are committed to donating ten free sessions a year making it accessible and  affordable. Of course this may mean that the person you contact has already donated their sessions for the year. In this case we encourage you to try another practitioner. In the future we might consider asking if practitioners are willing to offer sessions on a sliding-scale pricing up to a maximum of fifty dollars.

    • #ReachOutSaltSpring is transparent about information provided by practitioner certifications and qualifications.,  See our #ReachOutSaltSpring Services page for information about each practitioner. We encourage you to ask practitioners any questions or concerns you have. Do you have feedback about any of the services provided through #ReachOutSaltSpring? We have an oversight team that will review any concerns to ensure ethical care for you as a member of our community. Email us at info@reachoutsaltspring.com.

    • Go to the Services page. There you will find a list of practitioners who are willing to offer their expertise, for free, when available.

    •  It’s up to you whether you wish to meet in person, online or talk on the phone. Check with the listed practitioners to see whether they offer your preferred help. If you need assistance in travelling  to your appointment let us know and we can help make arrangements (Give us a bit of time to figure it out - we will need to know the day and time you have arranged with your practitioner of choice).

    •  #ReachOutSaltSpring was inspired from a program set up in the Kootenays called Reach Out in the Kootenays. Recognizing that there are many individuals on Salt Spring who could use the help without being able to afford it, the Mental Wellness Initiative saw an opportunity to bring this idea to Salt Spring. We don’t want any more community members to die due to mental issues and wish to enhance the protective factors for wellness. Supporting one person strengthens those around them creating positive momentum for many.  While mental wellness challenges do not discriminate, those who are insecurely housed or unhoused experience societal stigmatization, financial challenges, and food scarcity; and are disproportionately affected by negative mental health.

    • On Salt Spring, we see growing numbers of individuals in need with very limited support. The high cost of living, unrealistic housing/rental market, and potential for isolation on the island predisposes individuals  to mental health challenges. Providing accessible mental wellness services is critical. 

  • If you are an interested practitioner, wish to be involved in other ways, or have questions please email info@reachoutsaltspring.com. To find out more about #ReachOutSaltSpring please go to our About page.

What's the difference between a counsellor vs therapist vs psychologist vs psychiatrist?

 The terms "counsellor," "therapist," "psychologist," and "psychiatrist" are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to distinct professions with different training, roles, and scopes of practice in the field of mental health. The drop-down list provides an overview of the differences:

    • Clinical counsellors typically have a master's degree in counselling or a related field.

    • They provide talk therapy or counselling services to individuals, couples, families, or groups.

    • Clinical  counsellors often work with clients who are dealing with a wide range of issues, including relationship problems, life transitions, grief, stress, and more.

    • Their focus is on providing guidance, support, and helping clients develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills.

    • "Therapist" is a broad term that can encompass various professionals, including counsellors, psychologists, and social workers, who provide mental health services.

    • Therapists engage in talk therapy or other therapeutic interventions to help individuals address emotional, psychological, and behavioral issues.

    • Psychologists hold doctoral degrees (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in psychology.

    • They are trained in psychological assessment, diagnosis, and therapy.

    • Psychologists can specialize in various areas such as clinical psychology, counseling psychology, school psychology, and more.

    • They often provide therapy, conduct psychological testing, and engage in research to better understand and treat psychological disorders.

    • Psychiatrists are medical doctors (M.D. or D.O.) who specialize in mental health and psychiatry.

    • They can prescribe medication, as they have a medical background (Note: General & Nurse Practitioners can also prescribe medications).

    • Psychiatrists diagnose and treat mental illnesses and psychological disorders, often using a combination of therapy and medication.

    • They are trained to understand the biological and physiological factors contributing to mental health conditions.

In summary:

  • Counsellors and therapists focus on talk therapy and provide support for various life challenges.

  • Psychologists have advanced training in psychology, including assessment, diagnosis, and therapy.

  • Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication in addition to providing therapy.

When seeking mental health support, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Different professionals may be better suited to address different issues. It's also important to ensure that the professional you choose is licensed and accredited in their respective field.