Let Us Match You With a Therapist

When You Contact Us: What Happens Next

When you contact us, a real person from the Thrive team reads your message and follows up to learn what you are looking for. Reaching out can take courage, so we keep the process simple, confidential and free of pressure. This guide explains every step, from your first message to your first session, plus how to find us in downtown Vancouver.

Step 1: Share a little about what you need

Use the form above to tell us what type of counselling you are interested in and whether you prefer in-person or online sessions. You can share as much or as little as you like. A few sentences about what is going on and any preferences for your counsellor are plenty.

Step 2: Your free 15 minute consult

We reach out to arrange a free 15 minute consult. It is a chance to ask questions, hear how Thrive works and talk through options. There is no obligation to book further sessions.

Step 3: Get matched or choose your own counsellor

Based on your needs, style preferences and schedule, we recommend one or more counsellors who fit. If you would rather choose yourself, browse our team and request the person who resonates with you.

Step 4: Your first session

Your counsellor gets to know you, explains how they work and what confidentiality means, and begins shaping a plan with you. You stay in control of the pace and what you share.

Why People Contact Us

There is no threshold you have to meet before reaching out. People contact us when something feels heavy, confusing or stuck, and also when life is mostly fine but they want more from it. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Anxiety, racing thoughts or trouble switching off
• Low mood, numbness or losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Burnout from work, caregiving or simply carrying too much
• Relationship conflict, trust repair or feeling disconnected from a partner
• Trauma, difficult memories or reactions that seem bigger than the moment
• ADHD, autism or wondering whether you might be neurodivergent
• Grief, loss and major life transitions
• Questions about identity, sexuality, culture or purpose
• Habits or substance use that no longer feel like a choice

If you are not sure whether counselling is right for you, that is a perfectly good question to bring to your free consult.

How Thrive Approaches Therapy

Our counsellors share a framework we call the Thrive Formula. First we help your nervous system settle so change feels possible (Regulate). Then we explore how you adapted to stress and what no longer fits (Reveal). Finally we help you turn insight into lasting change in your relationships, work and daily life (Reclaim).

Within that framework, each counsellor draws on approaches such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, CBT and body based methods, chosen to suit you. Our guide to types of therapy explains the differences if you would like to learn more before you reach out.

A Note on Privacy When You Reach Out

Your privacy matters from the very first message. Information you share through our form is encrypted and used only to respond to you and recommend a counsellor. We will never add you to a mailing list or share your details without permission.

If you prefer, you can keep your first message brief and share more during your consult or first session. Your counsellor will explain confidentiality and its legal limits clearly before you begin, so you always know how your information is handled.

Ways to Contact Us

• Online form. The quickest way to get matched. Our form is encrypted and your information stays confidential.
• Phone. Call 604-227-0297 to speak with our team.
• Email. Write to connect@thrivedowntown.com with any questions.
• Book directly. Use our new client booking page to schedule your free consult.

We do our best to respond promptly. If you do not hear back when you expect to, please check your spam folder or give us a call.

Matching or Choosing Your Own Counsellor

People contact us in two main ways, and both work well. The right path depends on how much time you want to spend comparing options.

Let us match you

If you are not sure where to start, tell us what is going on and what matters to you in a counsellor. Our team considers your concerns, preferred approach, identity or cultural preferences, format and availability, then recommends one or more counsellors. Many people find this takes the guesswork out of starting therapy.

Choose your own

If you like to research, browse the profiles on our team page. Each one explains that counsellor’s specialties, approaches, credentials and style in their own words. When someone resonates, mention their name in the form above and we will check their availability.

If the fit is not right

The relationship with your counsellor matters a great deal. If something does not feel right after a session or two, tell us. We will help you find someone better suited, with no awkwardness and no need to explain yourself in detail.

Preparing for Your First Session

You do not need to prepare anything formal, but a little reflection can help you feel more settled walking in, or logging on.

• Jot down what prompted you to reach out now, even in a few words
• Think about what you would like to feel or do differently
• Note any questions for your counsellor about their approach or experience
• Have your extended health plan details handy if you plan to claim
• For online sessions, find a private space and test your camera and sound

It is completely normal to feel nervous. Many people say the hardest part was sending the first message. Once you are in the room, your counsellor will guide the conversation so you never have to figure it out alone.

Accessibility and Comfort

We want every client to feel comfortable. If you have accessibility needs, sensory preferences or would like accommodations such as a particular seating arrangement, lighting or session format, mention it when you contact us or in your consult. We will plan together so your sessions work for you.

If you are neurodivergent, you are welcome to share how you communicate best, whether that means written questions before a session, extra processing time or breaks. Our neurodivergent affirming counsellors are used to adapting the way sessions run.

Visiting Thrive in Downtown Vancouver

Our therapy rooms are at 470 Granville Street, Vancouver, in Suites 518 and 901. After hours, use buzzer 0518 or 0901 to reach your counsellor’s suite. Your confirmation will tell you which suite to go to.

Getting here by transit

We are steps from Granville SkyTrain Station on the Expo Line and a short walk from Waterfront Station, which connects the Canada Line, the Expo Line, the SeaBus and the West Coast Express. Many bus routes also stop along Granville and nearby streets. Plan your trip with TransLink.

Driving and cycling

Downtown parking includes paid street parking and nearby parkades. Allow a few extra minutes to find a spot so you can arrive feeling settled. If you cycle, secure bike parking is available at various points downtown.

Arriving for your appointment

Aim to arrive a few minutes early. You are welcome to tea and water in the waiting area before your counsellor greets you. Our rooms are designed to feel calm, colourful and far from clinical.

Prefer Online Sessions?

If coming downtown is not practical, most of our counsellors offer secure online sessions by video. You will receive a link before your appointment. All you need is a private space, a device with a camera and a stable connection.

Many clients mix online and in-person sessions depending on the week. Learn more about online counselling across BC and the communities we support on our service areas page.

What to Include When You Contact Us

You never need a perfect explanation, but a few details help us recommend the right counsellor quickly.

• What you would like support with, in your own words
• Whether you are looking for individual, couples or family counselling
• Your preferred format: in person, online or either
• Days and times that usually work for you
• Any preferences about your counsellor’s approach, identity or experience
• Whether you plan to use extended health benefits

Fees, Insurance and Low Cost Options

Current rates for each service are shown in the form above. Many extended health plans in BC reimburse counselling with registered counsellors, so check which designations your plan covers. After each session you receive a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurer.

If budget is a concern, ask about our low cost counselling program, which offers sessions with supervised intern counsellors. We are happy to talk through options during your consult.

Services You Can Contact Us About

• Individual therapy for anxiety, depression, stress and life transitions
• Couples counselling, including the Gottman Method
• ADHD counselling and support for autism and neurodivergence
• EMDR therapy and trauma counselling
• Addiction counselling
• Sex therapy for individuals and couples
• Psychedelic integration support
• Thrive2Go mobile counselling for workplaces and homes

Getting Started as a Couple or Family

If you are reaching out about couples counselling, either partner can contact us to begin. It helps to mention whether you both want to attend, any scheduling limits, and the main themes you would like to work on. Our couples counsellors work with partners at every stage, from early relationships to long marriages.

If there is fear, violence or coercion in the relationship, please tell us privately. Joint sessions are not always the safest first step, and we can talk about individual support instead.

For Workplaces and Organizations

Thrive also supports teams and organizations. Through Thrive2Go mobile counselling we can bring sessions to workplaces, and our workshops and team trainings cover topics such as stress, communication and emotional wellbeing. Contact us with a short description of your organization and goals, and we will follow up to discuss options.

Support Between Sessions

Therapy is one part of a wider support network. Between sessions, reliable information and community services can make a real difference. The Canadian Mental Health Association BC Division offers programs and resources across the province, and HeretoHelp shares practical guides on mental health and substance use.

Your counsellor can also suggest reading, skills or community programs that fit your goals, so you have support even on weeks when you are not in session.

What Clients Often Tell Us After Their First Contact

Many people put off reaching out for months, sometimes years. Afterward, they often share a few common reflections that may be helpful if you are hesitating right now.

• It was easier than expected. The first message felt like the hardest step, and everything after it felt guided.
• Being matched helped. Not having to choose alone from a long list of profiles took pressure off.
• The consult answered real questions. Knowing how sessions work, what they cost and how insurance applies made the decision clearer.
• They wished they had started sooner. Many people say they waited for things to get bad enough, when support would have helped earlier.

Wherever you are in that process, you are welcome to reach out when it feels right. You do not need to have the words figured out. A short message is enough for us to take it from there, and we will meet you with warmth and respect from the very first reply.

Contact Us FAQs

How quickly will you respond?

We aim to reply as soon as possible. If your message is time sensitive, calling 604-227-0297 is usually fastest.

Is my message confidential?

Yes. Our form is encrypted, and we will not share your information or add you to a mailing list without permission. See our privacy policy.

Can I contact you on behalf of someone else?

You are welcome to ask general questions for a partner, friend or family member. For privacy reasons, the person seeking counselling will need to connect with us directly to book.

Do I need a referral?

No referral is needed. Some insurance plans ask for one before reimbursing counselling, so check your policy if you plan to claim.

Can I contact you just to ask a question?

Of course. You are welcome to contact us with any question about our services, counsellors, formats or fees, even if you are not ready to book.

Do you offer sessions in languages other than English?

Some counsellors offer sessions in other languages, which is noted on their profiles. Ask when you contact us and we will let you know who may be a good fit.

Can I book for a teen or a family member?

Some of our counsellors work with teens and families. Contact us with a little background and we will let you know who may be a good fit and how consent and scheduling work for younger clients.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Let your counsellor or our team know as early as you can. Your counsellor will explain their notice period in your first session so there are no surprises later.

What if I am in crisis?

Counselling is not an emergency service. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 at any time, call the BC mental health support line at 310-6789, or call 911 in an emergency. For health advice you can also call 811 or visit HealthLink BC.

We Look Forward to Hearing From You

Whatever has led you here, you are welcome. Fill in the form above, call 604-227-0297 or email connect@thrivedowntown.com, and we will help you take the next step toward feeling more like yourself.