I started coming to this clinic approx 3-4 years ago, first to see Janine for individual counseling, and then next to see Elizabeth for Couples Counselling. All the staff at this clinic are incredibly friendly, including the receptionist and the owner, Karl. It's a very warm atmosphere when coming in, and the staff make you feel at home each and every time.
My only caution to others is be aware of little to no flexibility or understanding when you need to reschedule or cancel less than 24 hours (even if with valid reason)... And even if you reschedule, they will still charge you FULL price for the missed appointment. I'm not sure if this is office policy or the individual counselor's decision, but if you are extremely ill (and even hospitalized) which leads you to not provide 24 hrs notice, there is no understanding provided. I would be more understanding of this if you are a new client, or someone who chronically cancels/reschedules, but as a long term client who has consistently proven loyalty, that part has left a very negative impression on me.
The interesting thing about this, is there are times where health providers (mental or medical), will need to cancel/reschedule less with than 24hrs notice due to medical or personal reasons (they are human too), and each client would normally not expect a full, free service in return. Yet in reverse, the providers expect to be paid for a full service they did not provide if their client needs to reschedule for valid reasons. It really leaves the impression that a paycheck is foremost important with minimal client appreciation. I'm sorry to say, but as mental health providers, I would expect them to understand amongst so many businesses, that when someone is severely ill that "planning ahead" and thinking of a single appointment can actually be the least of someone's concern or priority. And if that person still finds the time to provide notice, then obviously they do value your time and service. This has definitely left me with the impression that the level of appreciation is not reciprocal. Your services may be important, but without clients your services would mean nothing. Customer service is such an important thing, and really it comes down to this: would a provider rather receive payment for ONE missed session (even if a client plans to reschedule), or reveive payment for 10 sessions because they are a loyal, dedicated client?
For a clinic that advocates mental health, I would expect a bit more compassion and compromise. Aside from that, I really do mean that the staff are all very friendly and knowledgeable with what they do! Just be mindful of having to pay for a full service, regardless of any last minute emergencies.