Davis Wiggs - Between The Vines Counselling

Are the forms used in your practice inclusive of various sexual orientations and gender identities (e.g., opportunities to fill in pronouns, etc.)?

—Yes

As a queer owner, I respect & pass non-judgment on any and all walks of life. Our intake forms & consent are gender inclusive with pronouns that you can fill in yourself and providing room for expression & creativity throughout the therapy process.

Do you collect and use preferred names (rather than legal names) for all communications?

—Yes, to some extent

Depends on your preference and what you are comfortable with sharing at the time.

Do you and your colleagues have experience providing services that support clients with navigating gender dysphoria*?

*TransCareBC describes gender dysphoria as a term "intended to describe the distress some trans people experience with relation to their gender identity, particularly if they would like to transition but have not yet done so".

—Not applicable (please explain why this is not applicable)

I currently provide counselling services but can provide community support & referrals if needed.

Please tell us how equipped you feel to support a client in determining if/when their mental health symptoms are related to their gender-related experiences or other factors? Please describe your response choice below.

—Somewhat confident

I feel confident enough to sit with clients and meeting them where they are at. I have previous experience in peer support for queer men & have been part of navigating services that are geared towards that community. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out about this specific question.

Do you/your colleagues understand the difference between gender dysphoria and mental health conditions/symptoms that are unrelated to gender dysphoria or distress?

—Yes

Being able to work with the client in both factors can be beneficial but knowing the difference is crucial in not hurting the client & providing a space to talk and share without judgement.

Do you and your colleagues have experience working with people who identify as living with a disability or chronic illness? Please tell us more about your experience and any training you have received.

—Yes, to some extent

I have had client from all walks of life previous to opening up my practice. We can sit down and talk about what that may be and if I am not able to provide you with the care that you need. We can work together to find someone or something that can help you on your journey to a better you.

Are you and your colleagues aware of what specific barriers may exist for Two-Spirit, queer, or trans Indigenous individuals accessing your services?

—Yes

I worked for a program that was built around queer men trying to access services within the area (which was pretty slim). I have worked with indigenous organizations to develop support services for people within the Two-Spirit community.

Are you and your colleagues aware of what specific barriers may exist for LGBQ individuals accessing your services?

—Yes

Some potential barriers that LGBQ individuals may encounter include stigma and discrimination, lack of cultural competence, fear of disclosure, limited visibility and representation, and mental health disparities.

Are you and your colleagues comfortable asking relevant questions about gender identity and sexual orientation?

—Yes

I think it provides folks with a sense of understanding & rapport within the therapy space.

Do you offer Indigenous 2S/LGBTQ+ specific resources, for example Indigenous Elders or Knowledge Keepers?

—Yes, to some extent

I can provide these resources if requested by the client.

Do you and your colleagues ask clients about pronouns and use them appropriately?

—Yes

Always using their preferred name and pronouns in and out of therapy.

Are you and your colleagues aware of what specific barriers may exist for trans individuals accessing your services?

—Yes

Barriers such as gender-affirming healthcare & access to harm-reduction materials such as injection supplies for testosterone/estrogen.

Does your practice have gender-neutral washrooms?

—Yes

One washroom shared between services in the building

Are there clear anti-discrimination policies that include gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation in your organization or practice?

—Yes, to some extent

As an inclusive and non-judgmental practice, I am always looking for the latest language around anti-discrimination policies. I am open to hearing more about that through clients that walk through my space.

Are all individuals involved in service provision actively engaged in decolonizing their practices and/or organization? If yes, please type below what actions you and/or your organization are taking.

—Yes, to some extent

I continue to ensure that my practice is actively involved in decolonization efforts such as collaboration and partnership, self-reflection & education, community engagement and consultation, reciprocity and respect, policy and structural changes.

By actively engaging in decolonization, I strive to create a practice that is inclusive, equitable, and respectful of diverse cultures, histories, and ways of knowing. I am committed to challenging colonial structures, uplifting marginalized voices, and promoting social justice within our practices and throughout my practice.

Are all individuals involved in service provision actively engaged in anti-racist practices, policies, and systems in their care model?

—Yes, to some extent

In order to incorporate anti-racist principles into my care model, I undertake education and training, cultural competence and humility, inclusive policies and procedures, representation and inclusivity, and client-centered care.