Finding a Reliable Counselling Centre
Unfortunately, not all pregnancy counselling centres support a woman's right to reproductive choice. Some counselling centres provide false medical information, make moral or religious judgments and show graphic videos or material that misrepresents abortion to encourage women to continue a pregnancy. Such counselling centres potentially put women's health at risk by pressuring them to continue a pregnancy.
A general rule to use when choosing a counselling centre is to follow your instincts. If you are in contact with a centre that makes you feel uncomfortable or pressured, you have the right to find another centre. Below are the signs of a credible, trustworthy counselling centre.
In advertising
- Offers clear information on all options – abortion, adoption and pregnancy*.
- Provides referral for abortion services.
- Provides referrals for adoption services.
- Provides referrals for support to continue the pregnancy.
Over the phone
- Answers questions about abortions or referrals in a straightforward manner.
- States their position on abortion as being pro-choice, the decision of the woman.
- Offers up to date and accurate information on all forms of contraception.
In the waiting room and counselling area
- Offers information on all options regarding pregnancy – abortion, adoption and parenting.
- Provides a neutral atmosphere.
During consultation
- Keeps personal values, beliefs and religious affiliations out of the conversation.
- Does not give advice or opinions.
- Provides unbiased information and encourages independent decision-making.
- Uses non-biased, neutral language.
- Supports your decision on the future of the pregnancy.
- Gives information and referrals for counselling on contraception and preventing sexually transmitted infections.
If you are unclear whether or not a specific centre is pro-choice, contact your local member of the Canadian Federation for Sexual Health or sexual health centre.
*CFSH does not favor one pregnancy option over another, and as such pregnancy options are listed alphabetically throughout our website.
