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About Our Counselling Services

At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, we offer a range of services to support your mental health, personal growth, and well-being. Our compassionate and client-centred apporach combines art therapy, counselling, and specialized consultations to meet your unqiue needs. Explore our services below and take the first step towards healing and self-discovery.

As a certified expressive arts therapist, Jillian provides a compassionate and supportive environment where clients—whether children, teens, or adults—can explore their emotions through art. Our individual art therapy sessions are tailored to each
person's unique needs, helping them express feelings that may be difficult to articulate with words alone.

Services such as our Art Therapy for Children offer a safe, non-verbal way to process emotions, develop coping skills, and build self-esteem. However, art therapy is not just for children. Whether you're a teen navigating the challenges of adolescence, a young adult facing life transitions, or an adult seeking a creative outlet to process complex emotions, our sessions provide the tools and support you need to navigate your emotional journey.

Through various artistic forms such as painting, drawing, sculpture, and movement, clients of all ages can explore their inner world and communicate feelings in a way that is natural and empowering. Our approach integrates different artistic mediums to ensure everyone feels comfortable and engaged, allowing for an organic and intuitive therapeutic process.

Each of our individual art therapy sessions is designed to foster a sense of safety and trust, encouraging individuals of all ages to express themselves freely. Jillian works closely with each client, whether child, teen, or adult, to help them navigate their emotional landscape, offering guidance, support, and encouragement every step of the way.

If you're seeking an empathetic and experienced expressive arts therapist for yourself, your teen, or your child, Jillian Bagan is here to help. Through creative exploration, we empower clients to develop a deeper understanding of their emotions and find their voice in the world. Contact us today to learn more about how art therapy can benefit you or your loved one.

Areas of Expertise

Anxiety

Our services can help individuals struggling with anxiety find support and develop effective coping strategies. Through Art Therapy and counselling techniques, we can assist you in managing anxiety symptoms, exploring underlying causes, and fostering a sense of calm and resilience. 

Depression

If you are experiencing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of motivation, our services can provide a supportive space for healing and growth. We will work together to explore the root causes of your depression, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and foster a sense of hope and personal strength. 

Trauma

We specialize in providing a trauma-infromed space where individualscan process their experiences, heal from past trauma, and develop resilience. Our therapeutic approach integrates art therapy, counselling, and trauma-focused techniques to support you on your healing journey. 

LGBTQ+ Issues

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand the unique challenges faced by individuals within this community. Our services are tailored to address issues such as self-acceptance and internalized homophobia, coming out, identity exploration, and navigating relationships. We provide a safe and affirming space where you can feel seen validated, and supported.  

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More about our services

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Our dedicated team at Jillian Bagan Art Therapy believes in the transformative power of art and counselling, and we are heere to guide you every step of the way. With years of experience and a deep passsion for helping individuals, like you, we've carefully crafed this comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to address any doubts or uncertainties you may have. 

FAQ
  • How do I know what therapy is best for me?
    Determining the best therapy for an individual depends on various factors, including personal preferences, specific needs, and the nature of the challenges you are facing. It's essential to consult with a qualified mental health professional who can assess your needs and provide personalized recommendations based on their expertise and your unique circumstances. Whether you or someone you know has Autism, ADHD, BPD, anxiety, depression, trauma and other psycho-social factors, our Art Therapy and clinical counselling services are goal oriented and tailored to meet individual needs. If you need more assistance determining the best therapy for you, we encourage you to reach out to our clinic today. We can guide you through the process, offer expertise and support you in finding therapy that best suits your needs.
  • What is Art Therapy, and how does it help?
    Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses art-making to help clients explore their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Art therapists work with clients to develop personalized treatment plans that include various art-making techniques, such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage. Through Art Therapy, clients can gain a deeper understanding of themselves, develop coping mechanisms, and promote personal growth and healing. Here are some benefits of Art Therapy: Develops coping skills Enhance self-awareness and build identity Reducing stress and fatigue Increasing speed of recovery Promoting a sense of purpose Externalize emotions and traumatic memories Helps to make sense of a situation Feel more secure and resilient Explore imagination Feel seen, witnessed and heard Gain new perspectives
  • How do I find an Art Therapist or Registered Clinical Counsellor that's right for me?
    Finding the right Art Therapist or Registered Clinical Counsellor for your needs is an important first step in your mental health journey. The Canadian Art Therapy Association (CATA) is the national professional association for Art Therapists in Canada. You can search for registered Art Therapists on their website or contact them for referrals. You can also search online for Art Therapists in your area or ask for recommendations from your healthcare provider or support group. The British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC) is the provincial association for Registered Clinical Counsellors. They also have a directory of counsellors on their website or contact them for referrals. Again, you can search online for Registered Clinical Counsellors near me or ask for recommendations from trusted source. We recommend thinking about your specific needs or concerns you would like to address in therapy, then looking for practitioners who have experience in your particular area of interest and ask for a free consultation. Consultations are a great way to ask questions, learn about their approach and see if they are someone you feel comfortable with. The process of finding the right therapist is a personal process, and may take some time and exploration. Head to our booking page for a free consultation with Jillian Bagan to find out if they are the right therapist for you!
  • Can I use my insurance to cover the cost of Art Therapy and/or counselling?
    At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, our clinician is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and a Certified Canadian Counsellor, which are two important designations recognized by many insurance providers. While insurance coverage varies depending on your specific policy and provider, it is common for insurance companies to offer reimbursement for therapy services provided by Registered Clinical Counsellors. To determine if your insurance will cover Art Therapy or counselling sessions, here are some steps your can take: Review your policy or contact your insurance provider directly about the specific credentials that are required for reimbursement. Obtain all the relevant documentation from your healthcare provider to ensure eligibility for reimbursement. Some insurance plans may require a referral from a primary care physician or authorization prior to starting therapy. Keep records and receipts. At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy we make record keeping easy, as all your receipts will have the information needed when you go to submit your claim. Follow your insurance providers procedures for submitting claims receiving Art Therapy and/or counselling services with Jillian Bagan Art Therapy. *Please note that Jillian Bagan Art Therapy cannot guarantee insurance coverage, as it ultimately depends on your specific policy and insurance provider.
  • What should I expect during an Art Therapy session?
    Art Therapy sessions typically use a combination of art-making, listening, and counselling. The Art Therapist might give art-making suggestions that focus on thoughts, feelings, and beliefs rather than skill. These suggestions are intended to halt, manage or alter the course of the initial symptom or issue you are seeking help on. Your therapist may guide you through various art-making techniques or allow you to express yourself freely. After creating your art, you will discuss your thoughts and experiences with your therapist, who will help you gain insight, develop coping mechanisms and working towards healing the different areas in your life.
  • Do I need to be good at art to do Art Therapy?
    In Art Therapy we welcome everyone, regardless of skill! Art Therapy is not about creating artistic masterpieces or being skilled at artistic techniques. It is a form of therapy that utilizes the creative process and artistic expression as a means of communication and self-exploration. The focus is on the process of creating art rather than the final-product. The act of engaging in art-making, regardless of artistic skill, can provide a therapeutic outlet for self-expression, emotional release, and personal exploration. Art Therapy can be especially helpful for individuals who find traditional talk therapy less effective or struggle to express themselves solely through verbal communication. Some people may have difficulty finding the right words to express their emotions, past traumas, or experiences. Engaging in art-making can provide an alternative and complementary form of communication, allowing for a deeper exploration of thoughts and emotions that are difficult to express verbally. Furthermore, Art Therapy can incorporate various artistic modalities, such as drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, visualizations, or creative writing. The Art Therapist will adapt the therapeutic approach to match the individual's needs, preferences and abilities.
  • Does something have to be "wrong" for me to benefit from therapy?
    Not at all! Therapy can be beneficial for anyone, regardless of whether something is "wrong" or not. Therapy offers a safe and confidential space for self-exploration, personal growth, and self-improvement. It does not require a specific problem or diagnosis to start benefiting from therapy. Seeking therapy is a proactive step towards self-care and personal development. You don't need to wait for a crisis to seek support. A therapist can help you optimize your well-being and provide valuable insights, regardless of whether you have a specific problem or not.
  • How long is a session, what is the cost and how do I pay?
    During each session at Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, you can expect dedicated time and attention for your healing and growth. Our sessions are typically 50 minutes long for individual art therapy and counselling, providing ample opportunity for exploration and support. The cost for a 50-minute individual session, whether conducted in-person or online, is $157.50 (including GST). We also offer a 30-minute parent consultation for $78.75 (including GST) and 45-minute business consultations for $105 (including GST). Payments can be made the day of your scheduled session, either before or after your scheduled appointment time. We understand that payment preferences vary, and we strive to accommodate your needs. While we highly encourage clients to utilize e-transfer as our preferred method of payment, we also accept credit card payments on a case-by-case basis. We aim to provide flexibility and convenience for our clients, ensuring that you have options when it comes to settling the session fees. Please feel free to discuss your preferred method during the initial consultation, and we will work together to find the best solution for you. At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, your well-being is our priority, and we strive to provide accessible and professional services that cater to your unique needs. If you are part of the queer community please and cost is a barrier, please let us know during your initial consultation as we may be able to provide you a sliding scale option or make a referral to another therapist or organization based on your needs.
  • What are your hours?
    At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, we are committed to providing accessible services that accommodate your schedule. Our office hours are as follows: Thursdays: 10 AM- 7 PM (Online Only) Fridays: 10 AM- 6 PM (Online Only) Saturdays: 10 AM-5 PM (In-Person and Online) Please note that as of now, Saturdays are the only days we offer in-person sessions. However, we also provide online sessions throughout the week to ensure flexibility and convenience for our clients. During the initial consultation, we will work together to find a time that suits your needs and availability.
  • How long will I be in therapy?
    The duration of therapy varies depending on individual needs, goals, and progress. Since every person's journey is unique, it is challenging to provide an exact timeframe for how long you will be in therapy. At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, we believe in offering a personalized approach to ensure the most effective and beneficial experience for each client. Therapy is a process that evolves over time, and the length of your therapy journey will be determined by factors such as the complexity of the issues you are working through, your personal growth, and your readiness for change. Our priority is to create a safe and supportive space where you can explore, heal, and develop the necessary tools for long-term well-being. Together, we will regularly assess your progress and discuss your evolving needs. Our goal is to provide support for as long as you find it beneficial and continue to make progress towards your therapeutic goals. During the initial consultation and throughout the therapy process, we will openly communicate and collaborate to ensure your therapy experience is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
  • How often should I come in for counselling?
    The frequency of counseling sessions can vary depending on individual needs, preferences, and the nature of the issues being addressed. At Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, we believe in providing flexible options that cater to your unique circumstances and goals. During the initial consultation, we will discuss your specific needs and collaboratively determine a recommended frequency for your counselling sessions. Typically, clients find it beneficial to attend sessions on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to establish a consistent therapeutic relationship and maintain momentum in their healing journey. However, it's important to note that the frequency of sessions is flexible and can be adjusted based on your progress and evolving needs. Some clients may find that they benefit from more frequent sessions, especially during times of crisis or significant life transitions. Others may prefer less frequent sessions as they work towards their therapeutic goals. Ultimately, the decision of how often you should come in for counselling will be made collaboratively between you and your therapist, taking into account your specific needs, progress, and availability. Our goal is to provide you with the support and guidance that best fits your individual journey towards healing and personal growth.
  • How do I get started?
    To take the first step towards Art Therapy and counselling with Jillian Bagan Art Therapy, please reach out to us today to schedule your initial consultation. This session will help us determine the best approach and tailor our services to meet your specific requirements. After the initial consultation, we will collaborate to assess your situation and develop a personalize treatment plan during our assessment interview process in your first session. Alternatively, if you are seeking services for your child or youth, we will meet with you before or after your child's first session to gain a comprehensive understanding of your child's history and needs (please not that these initial assessments are 50 minutes long and cost the same as our individual sessions). Once the assessment and treatment plan are in place, we will work together to schedule your sessions. We offer flexible options for in-person and online sessions, taking into account your availability and preferences. For in-person sessions, please note that they are currently only available on Saturdays. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule an initial consultation please reach out to us. We are here to support you and your family.

Still Have Questions?

Don't worry, we're here to provide you with the answers and support you need to start your Art Therapy or counselling journey. 

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