Our LGBTQ+ Counselling Services

Step 1: Getting Started with LGBTQ+ Counselling

Welcome to Your First Step

Taking the first step toward healing and growth takes courage. At Turning Tides Counselling & Life Coaching, we're here to support you through every part of your journey. Whether you're exploring your identity, navigating relationship challenges, healing from past hurt, or simply seeking a space where you feel truly seen and accepted, we're honoured to walk alongside you.

Our approach to LGBTQ+ counselling is rooted in genuine care. We create a space where your identity is celebrated, your experiences are validated, and your goals matter. You'll work with Kotone Frankowski, a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor who specializes in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and couples through life's transitions and challenges.

What to Expect in Step 1

The initial contact process is straightforward and designed with your comfort in mind.

• Reach out to us using any method that feels easiest for you
• Schedule your free 20-minute consultation to chat about what's on your mind
• Get to know each other in a relaxed, pressure-free conversation
• Explore whether we're the right fit for your needs and goals
• Book your first full session if you'd like to move forward

How to Get in Touch

You have several ways to connect with us. Choose whatever feels most comfortable.

Email	info@turningtidestoday.com
Phone	(1) 778-321-6058
Online Booking	Book your free consultation here
Website	www.turningtidestoday.com

Your Free 20-Minute Consultation

This conversation is completely free and comes with no obligation. It's simply a chance for us to connect and for you to decide if working together feels right.

During this time, you might share a bit about what brings you to counselling. Maybe you're dealing with relationship challenges. Perhaps you're working through past trauma or discrimination. You might be navigating identity questions or life transitions. Or you could simply be looking for a safe space to be yourself. Whatever it is, we're here to listen without judgment.

We'll also answer any questions you have about how we work, what sessions look like, and how we can support your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this really free?

Yes. Your 20-minute consultation costs nothing. It's our way of making sure we're a good match before you commit to anything.

What if I'm nervous about talking to someone new?

That's completely normal. Many people feel nervous before their first conversation. We create a welcoming, non-judgmental space. You're in control of how much you share and how quickly you open up. There's no pressure.

Do I have to come in person?

No. We offer online sessions that work just as well as meeting face to face. You can join from anywhere that feels safe and comfortable for you. Whether you're in Vancouver or anywhere across British Columbia or beyond, we can connect online.

What if I'm not sure I'm ready for counselling?

The free consultation is perfect for exploring that uncertainty. We can talk about what counselling involves and whether it might help. There's no rush. You get to decide what feels right for you.

Will everything I share be kept private?

Yes. Confidentiality is fundamental to our work. What you share stays between us, with very limited exceptions required by law (like if someone is in immediate danger). We'll explain these boundaries clearly during your first conversation.

What if I'm worried about costs?

We work with most major Canadian insurance providers, which may help cover your sessions based on your individual policy. We also offer flexible options to make counselling accessible. During your consultation, we can discuss what might work best for your situation.

Can I bring my partner if we're doing couples counselling?

Absolutely. For couples work, you'll both participate. We can discuss the best way to set that up during your consultation.

How long does it take to see results?

Everyone's journey is different. Some people notice shifts after just a few sessions. Others take longer. What matters is that you're moving toward your goals at a pace that feels right for you. We'll check in regularly about what's working and adjust as needed.

What if I've tried counselling before and it didn't help?

Past experiences matter. Sometimes it's about finding the right fit with a counsellor. Sometimes it's about trying a different approach. We specialise in care informed by trauma research and use approaches tailored to your specific needs. We're happy to talk about what hasn't worked before so we can do things differently.

Our Approach to LGBTQ+ Counselling

We believe your identity is not something to fix or change. It's something to honour and celebrate. Our counselling is built on several key principles.

You are welcomed exactly as you are. Your sexual orientation, gender identity, relationship structure, and life choices are all respected and affirmed. This isn't just something we say. It's woven into everything we do.

We understand LGBTQ+ experiences. We recognise the unique challenges you may face, from navigating coming out to dealing with discrimination or family dynamics. We also celebrate the resilience, creativity, and strength within LGBTQ+ communities.

Healing happens in relationship. Counselling works best when there's genuine connection and trust. We build that together, at your pace, in a way that feels safe.

Your goals guide our work. Whether you're seeking support for anxiety, relationship challenges, identity exploration, healing from past hurt, or life transitions, we focus on what matters most to you.

Therapeutic Approaches We Use

We draw from several evidence-based approaches, tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

• Internal Family Systems work, which helps you understand and work with different parts of yourself
• Approaches informed by how trauma affects us, helping you build safety and resilience
• Somatic work, which recognises that healing happens in the body as well as the mind
• Cognitive Behavioural approaches, which help you understand patterns and build new skills
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, which helps you live in alignment with your values
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, which strengthens emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness

We don't use a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we listen to what you need and adapt our work accordingly.

Service Areas We Serve

We proudly serve all of British Columbia, from vibrant cities to quieter communities. Our online sessions mean you can access support from anywhere in the province, or even internationally.

Whether you're in Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, the Fraser Valley, the Interior, Northern BC, the Kootenays, or any other part of the province, we're here for you.

What Happens After Your Consultation

If you decide to move forward, here's what comes next.

Your first full session. This is typically 50 minutes. We'll dive a bit deeper into what brought you here, your history, and what you're hoping to achieve. We'll also talk about how we'll work together and answer any remaining questions.

Ongoing support. Sessions typically happen weekly, though we can adjust frequency based on your needs. Between sessions, you'll have access to email support if something comes up or you want to share a reflection.

Collaborative progress. We'll regularly check in about how things are going and whether our approach is working for you. Your feedback matters. We adjust and adapt as we go.

Insurance and Payment

Coverage may be available through major Canadian insurance providers including Canada Life, Green Shield Canada, Manulife, SunLife, and Pacific Blue Cross, depending on your individual policy. We accept credit card and e-transfer payments. During your consultation, we can discuss what options might work best for you.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out. You don't need to know exactly what you want to work on. You just need to be willing to show up and be honest about where you are right now.

That's enough to begin.

Contact us today to schedule your free 20-minute consultation. We're looking forward to meeting you.

Email: info@turningtidestoday.com

Phone: (1) 778-321-6058

Book online: https://www.colib.io/booking/turning-tides-coaching-counselling

Learn more: www.turningtidestoday.com

Step 2: Getting to Know You and Setting Your Direction

Welcome to the second step of your journey with us. This is where we begin to truly understand who you are, what matters most to you, and where you want to go. Think of this phase as the foundation we build together before moving forward with your counselling.

What Happens in Your First Sessions

During our initial time together, we focus on creating a comfortable space where you can share your story. There is no rush, no judgment, and no pressure to reveal more than you are ready to share.

In these first sessions, we will:

• Listen deeply to your experiences and what brought you to seek support
• Explore your background, relationships, and the specific challenges you are facing
• Learn about your identity, values, and what feels important to you as an LGBTQ+ person
• Understand any past experiences with trauma or difficult emotions
• Discover your strengths and the resources you already have within you
• Talk about what success looks like for you in counselling

Our Intake Process

The intake process is simply a conversation. We are not filling out endless forms or making you feel like a case number. Instead, we are getting to know each other through genuine dialogue.

We will discuss things like your mental health history, any experiences of discrimination or minority stress, your relationships, and what you hope to achieve through counselling. If you have experienced trauma, we will gently explore this at a pace that feels safe for you. Our approach is always informed by trauma research, which means we understand how past experiences shape who you are today.

This conversation typically happens over your first one or two sessions, with each session lasting about 50 minutes. You can choose to do this online or in person, whichever feels most comfortable.

What to Prepare and Bring

You do not need to prepare anything formal. However, it can be helpful to think about a few things before your first session:

• What are the main reasons you are seeking counselling right now?
• Are there specific situations or emotions that feel most challenging?
• What would feel different or better in your life if counselling went well?
• Do you have any questions about how counselling works or what to expect?
• If you have insurance, bring your policy information so we can discuss coverage options

If you are meeting online, simply ensure you have a quiet, private space where you can talk comfortably. If you are meeting in person in Vancouver, our office is located at 1451 Burnaby Street.

Setting Goals Together

One of the most important parts of Step 2 is working together to identify your goals for counselling. These are not goals we impose on you. They are your goals, shaped by what matters to you.

We might explore questions like:

• What would help you feel more at peace with yourself?
• Are there relationship patterns you want to understand or change?
• How do you want to feel about your identity and your place in the world?
• What would it mean to build resilience or heal from past hurt?
• What does a fulfilling life look like for you?

Your goals might be about managing anxiety or depression, healing from trauma, improving relationships, building self-esteem, navigating life transitions, or discovering your life purpose. Whatever feels important to you is valid and worth exploring.

We write down these goals together so we both know what we are working towards. As we move forward, we will check in on how things are progressing and adjust our direction if needed.

Understanding Our Approach

During these early sessions, we will also explain how counselling works and what you can expect from us. We use approaches grounded in research and proven to help people heal. These include Internal Family Systems work, somatic approaches that honour your body's wisdom, cognitive and behavioural strategies, acceptance and commitment therapy, and dialectical behaviour therapy.

What this means in plain language is that we help you understand different parts of yourself, we pay attention to what your body is telling you, we look at patterns in your thinking and behaviour, we help you accept what you cannot change while building commitment to what matters, and we teach you skills for managing intense emotions and relationships.

All of this is tailored to you. We are not following a one-size-fits-all manual. We are building a counselling experience that fits your unique life, your identity, and your needs as an LGBTQ+ person.

Addressing Your Concerns About Getting Started

Will you judge me or my identity? No. We provide fully affirming care. Your identity is valid, and we celebrate who you are.

What if I am not ready to talk about everything? That is completely okay. You set the pace. We will never push you to share more than you are comfortable with.

How confidential is this? What you share with us is confidential and protected by professional standards. There are only a few legal exceptions, such as if you are at immediate risk of harm. We will explain these clearly.

What if I do not feel comfortable with the counsellor? It is important that you feel safe and heard. If something does not feel right, we encourage you to say so. We can discuss it, or we can help you find another counsellor who might be a better fit.

How much does this cost? Our sessions are affordable and designed to be accessible. Coverage may be available based on your individual insurance policy. We also offer flexible payment options.

How long will counselling take? This varies from person to person. Some people benefit from short-term support focused on specific challenges. Others prefer ongoing counselling for deeper healing and growth. We will explore this together and adjust as needed.

Your Preparation Checklist

Before your first session, you might want to:

• Think about what you want to get out of counselling
• Write down any questions you have
• Gather your insurance information if you have coverage
• Choose a quiet, private space for your session
• Plan to arrive a few minutes early to settle in
• Bring a notebook if you like to jot down thoughts or reflections
• Wear something that makes you feel comfortable and like yourself

What Happens After Step 2

Once we have completed your intake and set your goals, we move into Step 3, where the real healing work begins. You will have regular sessions where we explore what matters to you, develop new skills, process difficult emotions, and build the life you want.

Between sessions, you might receive email support or reflections from us to help you continue your progress. We are here to support you not just during our time together, but in the space between sessions too.

Ready to Begin?

If you have questions about this step or want to discuss whether counselling is right for you, we offer a free 20-minute consultation. This gives you a chance to talk with Kotone, ask anything you want to know, and see if we feel like a good fit.

You can book your consultation or your first session through our online booking platform. Simply visit the link below and choose a time that works for you.

Book your free consultation or first session here: https://www.colib.io/booking/turning-tides-coaching-counselling

You can also reach out to us directly at info@turningtidestoday.com or call 778-321-6058 if you have any questions before booking.

We are looking forward to getting to know you and supporting you on your journey towards healing, growth, and living authentically as your true self.

Step 3: Your Healing Journey in Action

You've shared your story and explored your goals. Now comes the meaningful work of moving forward. Step 3 is where therapy becomes real, where you'll discover new ways of understanding yourself and building the life you want. This is where change happens, one session at a time.

What Happens in Your Sessions

Each session with our Registered Therapeutic Counsellor is designed as a safe, collaborative space where your voice matters most. Here's what you can expect:

Opening (5-10 minutes)	We begin by checking in on how you've been since our last time together. You might share what's been on your mind, how you've been coping, or what brought you in today. This isn't about rushing into anything. It's about reconnecting and creating that sense of safety.
Reflecting on Progress (5-10 minutes)	We look back at what you've been working on. If you tried any practices between sessions, we talk about what happened. What felt helpful? What was challenging? There's no judgment here, only curiosity and support.
Exploring What Matters (20-25 minutes)	This is the heart of our work together. We dive into what's happening in your life right now. For LGBTQ+ clients, this might mean exploring your identity, navigating relationships, processing experiences of discrimination, healing from trauma, or building confidence in who you are. We listen deeply and help you make sense of your experiences.
Learning New Tools (10-15 minutes)	Based on what you're facing, we introduce approaches that can help. These might include Internal Family Systems work, where we explore different parts of yourself with compassion. Or we might use grounding techniques to help you feel more present. We might work with your thoughts and beliefs, or help you develop better ways to manage difficult feelings. Everything is tailored to what works for you.
Planning Forward (5-10 minutes)	Before we wrap up, we talk about what comes next. What feels important to focus on? What small step could you take this week? We're building momentum together, celebrating what you're doing well, and identifying where you want to grow.
Closing (5 minutes)	We summarise what we've talked about and remind you of the support available to you. You'll know how to reach out if you need something between sessions. Your next appointment gets scheduled so you have that continuity of care.

Each session runs for 50 minutes, giving us enough time to really work together without feeling rushed.

The Approaches We Use

Our Registered Therapeutic Counsellor draws on several evidence-based approaches, all chosen specifically for what will help you most:

• Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps you understand different parts of yourself with compassion. Rather than fighting against your emotions or reactions, you learn to listen to what they're trying to tell you. This is especially powerful for healing from trauma and building self-compassion.
• Care informed by trauma research means we understand how trauma lives in your body and mind. We move slowly, respect your pace, and never push you beyond what feels safe. This approach recognises that many LGBTQ+ people carry the weight of discrimination, rejection, or past harm.
• Cognitive work helps you notice patterns in how you think about yourself and your life. When you've internalised messages that you're not okay, we gently help you question those beliefs and build more compassionate, realistic ways of seeing yourself.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on what truly matters to you. Rather than trying to eliminate difficult feelings, you learn to move forward in directions that align with your values, even when emotions are present.
• Somatic approaches recognise that healing happens in your body, not just your mind. We might use grounding techniques, breathing practices, or movement to help you feel more settled and present.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) teaches practical skills for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and building a life worth living. These skills are especially helpful if you're navigating multiple challenges at once.

You won't necessarily use all of these in every session. We're responsive to what you need in the moment, always honouring your preferences and pace.

Practices and Homework Between Sessions

The real transformation happens in your life, not just in our sessions. That's why we talk about practices you can explore between our time together. These aren't rigid assignments. They're invitations to deepen your healing.

You might explore practices like these:

• Journalling for reflection where you explore your feelings about your identity, your relationships, or moments when you felt proud of yourself. Writing can help you process emotions and notice patterns.
• Identity affirmations that celebrate who you are. If you've heard negative messages about being LGBTQ+, these gentle practices help you build a stronger, more loving relationship with yourself.
• Emotional awareness practices where you learn to notice what you're feeling and why. This might involve simple check-ins with yourself throughout the day or noting what triggers certain emotions.
• Communication exercises if you're working on relationships. You might practise having conversations, setting boundaries, or expressing your needs in ways that feel authentic to you.
• Grounding and calming techniques that you can use whenever you feel overwhelmed. These might be breathing exercises, sensory practices, or movements that help you feel more present and safe.
• Values clarification work where you explore what truly matters to you beyond what others expect. This supports you in living more authentically.
• Connecting with community by exploring LGBTQ+ affirming groups, events, or resources that reduce isolation and build your support network.
• Self-care planning that acknowledges your unique needs. What helps you feel safe, comforted, and joyful? We help you build these practices into your week.

The key thing to know is that you're in control. If something doesn't resonate, we talk about it. If you want to try something different, we adjust. This is your healing journey.

How We Track Your Progress

Progress isn't always obvious. Sometimes it's subtle. You might notice you're sleeping better, or that a situation that used to overwhelm you feels more manageable. You might feel more confident in your identity or more connected to people who affirm you.

We track progress through conversation. In sessions, we reflect together on what's shifting. Are you feeling more like yourself? Are your relationships improving? Are you managing stress differently? We also look at the goals you set in Step 2. Are you moving towards them? What's helping? What needs adjustment?

Some clients find it helpful to keep their own notes between sessions, jotting down moments when they noticed something changing. Others prefer to just talk it through with us. Both approaches work.

You'll also receive post-session follow-up emails where we summarise what we discussed and the practices you're exploring. These emails serve as a touchstone, helping you remember insights and stay connected to your healing work.

Support Between Sessions

Healing doesn't happen only in the therapy room. That's why we're here for you between sessions too.

You can reach out via email if something comes up, if you want to share a reflection, or if you need a bit of support. We respond thoughtfully, offering encouragement and perspective. This isn't crisis support, but it does help you feel less alone in the work you're doing.

If you're part of our CPTSD support group or therapy book club, you'll also have community connection. These groups meet regularly online, offering a space where you can share experiences with others who understand, receive psychoeducation about trauma and healing, and feel part of something larger than your individual struggle.

What Makes This Work for LGBTQ+ Clients

Our approach is built on affirmation and safety. We understand that many LGBTQ+ people have experienced rejection, discrimination, or trauma related to their identity. We create space where you can be fully yourself without judgment.

We're knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ experiences and the specific challenges you might face. Whether you're navigating coming out, managing family dynamics, exploring your identity, healing from discrimination, or building healthy relationships, we meet you with understanding and expertise.

We also recognise that your identity intersects with other parts of who you are. Your race, culture, ability, class, and other aspects of your identity all matter. We hold all of this with care.

Your Role in This Process

You're not a passive participant in your healing. You're the expert on your own life. Our role is to offer perspective, tools, and support. Your role is to show up, be honest, try new things, and trust the process even when it feels uncomfortable.

Some weeks will feel like breakthroughs. Other weeks might feel slower. Both are part of healing. What matters is that you're moving forward, even in small ways.

Ready to Begin?

Step 3 is where your real transformation begins. Our Registered Therapeutic Counsellor is ready to walk alongside you, offering expertise, compassion, and evidence-based support tailored to your unique needs and identity.

Our LGBTQ+ counselling services are available online, making them accessible whether you're in Vancouver, across British Columbia, or anywhere else. We serve clients throughout Metro Vancouver, Vancouver Island, the Fraser Valley, Interior BC, Northern BC, the Kootenays, and beyond.

To take the next step, book your first session through our online booking platform. You can also reach out with any questions about what to expect or how we can support you.

Book Your First Session

Our Registered Therapeutic Counsellor looks forward to meeting you and supporting your journey towards healing, authenticity, and growth.

Step 4: Progress Evaluation and Completion Planning

You've reached an important milestone in your LGBTQ+ counselling journey. Step 4 focuses on evaluating your progress, recognising the growth you've achieved, and planning for sustained wellbeing beyond our sessions together.

Understanding Your Progress

Throughout our time working together, we've been paying close attention to the shifts happening in your life. These changes might show up in how you feel day to day, how you relate to others, or simply in moments where you notice yourself responding differently to situations that once felt overwhelming.

Progress in counselling isn't always linear. Some weeks you'll feel significant breakthroughs. Other times, you might notice subtle shifts that only become clear when you look back over several weeks. Both matter equally.

Signs You May Be Ready for Completion

As we approach the end of our regular sessions, you might notice some of these indicators:

• You're managing difficult emotions with greater ease and using coping strategies that actually work for you
• Your relationships feel more authentic and connected, with improved communication patterns
• You have a clearer sense of who you are and feel more at home in your identity
• Symptoms that brought you to counselling have reduced significantly
• You're making decisions aligned with your values rather than from a place of fear
• You feel equipped to handle challenges that arise without becoming overwhelmed
• You've developed a stronger support network and know how to reach out when needed

Maintenance Strategies for Long-Term Wellbeing

Completing counselling doesn't mean the work stops. It means you're building a life where you can sustain the healing you've created. Here's what we recommend:

Strategy	How It Supports You
Regular self-reflection	Journaling or quiet reflection helps you stay connected to your progress and notice early signs of stress
Ongoing community connection	Our CPTSD support groups and therapy book club provide ongoing peer support and continued learning
Practising your coping tools	The techniques we've explored together work best when used regularly, not just during crisis moments
Honouring your boundaries	The boundaries you've established protect your energy and relationships
Staying connected to your support network	Friends, family, and community members you trust are essential to sustained wellbeing
Revisiting your values	When life gets complicated, returning to what matters most helps guide your choices

Planning for Transitions

As you move toward completion, we'll work together on a transition plan. This might include identifying specific situations where you want to feel confident, creating a personal toolkit of strategies you can access anytime, and discussing what ongoing support might look like for you.

Some clients find that stepping back from weekly sessions while maintaining occasional check-ins provides the right balance. Others prefer to complete counselling fully and return if life circumstances shift. There's no single right answer. What matters is what feels sustainable and supportive for you.

Ongoing Support Options Available to You

Your counselling journey doesn't have to end completely. Our trauma informed counselling services serving all of British Columbia remain available to you in several ways:

• Occasional sessions: Return for a session or two when you're navigating a major life transition or want to deepen your work
• CPTSD support group: Join our ongoing support group for continued connection with others who understand your experience
• Therapy book club: Participate in our group discussions focused on trauma and healing through literature and shared reflection
• Between-session email support: We can arrange periodic email check-ins to help you stay grounded in your practice
• Crisis support resources: We'll provide you with a list of resources and crisis lines you can access anytime

Celebrating Your Growth

Before we close this chapter, let's acknowledge what you've accomplished. You showed up. You were vulnerable. You did the difficult work of examining your patterns, healing from trauma, and building a life that feels more aligned with who you truly are. That takes courage.

The shifts you've made aren't small. They ripple outward into your relationships, your sense of self, and your capacity to move through the world with greater ease and authenticity.

What Happens Next

In our final sessions together, we'll focus on consolidating your learning, identifying your personal strengths and resources, and creating a clear plan for maintaining your wellbeing. We'll discuss what to do if you face challenges, how to recognise when you might benefit from returning to counselling, and how to stay connected to the support systems that matter to you.

Completion isn't goodbye. It's a transition to a new phase where you're carrying forward the insights and tools you've developed, supported by the knowledge that our trauma informed counselling services remain available whenever you need them.

Ready to Move Forward?

If you're feeling ready to explore completion planning or want to discuss what ongoing support might look like for you, we're here to help. Your journey toward healing and authentic living doesn't end here. It evolves.

Book your next session to discuss your completion plan and explore ongoing support options.

Book Your Session

Our LGBTQ+ affirming counselling services are available throughout British Columbia, with online sessions accessible from anywhere. Whether you're in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, or any community across the province, we're here to support your continued wellbeing.