Riley Counselling

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

Yes, all forms in my practice are intentionally designed to be inclusive. Clients can indicate their pronouns and gender identity.

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

Yes, I use clients' preferred names in all communication. Legal names are only used when absolutely necessary, such as for insurance purposes.

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

Yes, I have experience supporting clients with gender dysphoria. My approach is client-centred, helping individuals explore their feelings, navigate challenges, and identify pathways toward gender-affirming care or transition, if desired.

How equipped do you feel to support a client in determining if/when their mental health symptoms are related to their gender-related experiences or other factors?

I feel very equipped to assist clients in understanding the interplay between their mental health symptoms and gender-related experiences. I strive to provide a safe and non-judgmental space to explore these complexities.

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

Yes, I am well-versed in distinguishing gender dysphoria from other mental health concerns. This understanding allows me to provide targeted support tailored to each client's unique experiences.

Do you 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, I have worked with individuals living with disabilities and chronic illnesses. My training includes an understanding of intersectionality, addressing how these experiences intersect with mental health and identity.

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

Yes, I am comfortable asking relevant and respectful questions about gender identity and sexual orientation.

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

No, I currently do not offer Indigenous-specific resources such as Indigenous Elders or Knowledge Keepers in my practice.

Do you ask clients about pronouns and use them appropriately?

Yes, I always ask clients about their pronouns and share my pronouns on all communications.

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

Yes, I am aware of the systemic barriers that Two-Spirit, queer, and trans Indigenous individuals may face, including the lack of access to culturally affirming care and financial constraints. I am not currently approved for FNHA but remain open to exploring ways to improve accessibility.

Are you aware of what specific barriers may exist for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals accessing your services?

Yes, I am aware of the unique barriers 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals face, including stigma, lack of access to affirming care, and systemic discrimination. I strive to address these challenges by providing a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment.

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

Yes, I understand the barriers trans individuals often encounter, such as navigating healthcare systems, financial limitations, and societal stigma. My practice is designed to minimize these obstacles by offering affirming care and creating a safe space for all clients.

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

Yes, my practice includes clear anti-discrimination policies that explicitly protect clients of all gender identities, gender expressions, and sexual orientations.

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.

I continue to actively work toward decolonizing my practice by learning about Indigenous perspectives on mental health and incorporating inclusive frameworks into my care model.

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

Yes, I strive to integrate anti-racist practices into my counselling work, including recognizing systemic inequities, challenging biases, and ensuring clients of all backgrounds feel valued and supported.