Virlyn Collantes
About Me I offer virtual sessions for individual and couples therapy. I am a fervent advocate for addressing the root causes of individuals' and couples' issues and firmly believe that every story deserves to be heard…
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About Virlyn
About Me
I offer virtual sessions for individual and couples therapy. I am a fervent advocate for addressing the root causes of individuals' and couples' issues and firmly believe that every story deserves to be heard and supported. Seeking help is a significant first step in one's journey, and I am committed to providing compassionate assistance. I look forward to the privilege of hearing your story, understanding you better, and walking alongside you on your path to personal growth and well-being. The importance of your journey is of utmost significance, and together, we can work towards brighter outcomes and a deeper understanding of your story.
My Clinical Approach to Counselling
My extensive background and comprehensive training have equipped me with a wide range of therapeutic modalities, enabling me to offer a personalized approach to address the specific needs of each individuals and couples I work with. These modalities include: Gottman Method Couples Therapy (couples only) and a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and IFS (Parts Work).
Over the course of my career, I've had the privilege of assisting a diverse clientele dealing with a broad spectrum of challenges, including but not limited to: Relationship/Marital Issues, Emotional Abuse, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, CPTSD, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, and Emotional Dysregulation.
My diverse skill set, along with a profound dedication to understanding and empowering individuals and couples, enables me to provide a compassionate and effective therapeutic approach. Your well-being and unique circumstances are always at the forefront of my practice, and I'm committed to guiding you on your journey towards healing and personal growth.
My Background
I am a dedicated Registered Social Worker (RSW) mental health practitioner associated with the British Columbia and Ontario Colleges of Social Workers. My journey in clinical social work has taken me across continents, driven by a profound commitment to individual well-being and a relentless desire to effect positive change. I earned a Bachelors Degree in Psychology & Health and Human Services, providing the foundation for my future pursuits. I furthered my education in Chicago, where I obtained a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the Erikson Institute. Afterward, I practiced clinical social work in San Diego, CA and eventually settled in Vancouver, BC where I currently practice.
Which Insurance Companies Cover Counselling?
Registered Social Workers (RSWs) are recognized healthcare professionals, and when you seek counselling and services from an RSW, you can potentially qualify for a medical expense tax credit when filing your income tax returns. Although counselling fees are not covered under the BC Medical Services Plan, many health benefit plans do include counselling coverage that reimburse you for visits to a Registered Social Worker (RSW). If your insurance is provided by one of the below companies, check with them to see how much your plan covers per calendar year. However, if your insurance company is not listed below, this does not mean that they won’t cover costs. Refer to your insurance company benefits package or Human Resources Department to find out what type of coverage you have.
The following plans are known to cover some or all of counselling provided by a RSW:
- Pacific Blue Cross
- Great West Life
- Canada Life
- Beneva/SSQ
- Empire Life Insurance
- Dejardins
- Sunlife Insurance
- Green Shield Insurance
- Chambers Plan
- Manulife
- Employee Assistance Programs
- *Family Assistance Programs
- *Workers Compensation Board (WCB)
- *Victim’s Assistance Services (call 604-660-3888 or toll free in BC at 1-866-660-3888 to enroll with CVAP)
- * ICBC (if involved in a Motor Vehicle Accident causing anxiety and trauma)
If you find that RSW visits are not covered under your plan, you may want to contact your employer, Human Resources Department, or insurance company directly to request a small change to the plan’s coverage. This isn’t difficult, doesn’t cost the employer anything, and at the same time increases your employee benefits. Most employers like to increase the amount of benefits that their employees can access, especially when it does not cost the employer any additional fee. Often plans will cover visits to a Psychologist but not a qualified RSW who is less expensive. By adjusting the plan to include RSW’s, your counselling dollars will actually go further.