Question 1

I've never talked to a professional. Shouldn't I be able to handle this on my own?

Accepted Answer

We all need help from time to time. Psychotherapists are trained in the field of mental health and well-being. My role is to collaborate with you to help reduce the influence of problems, and to uncover abilities, skills,  qualities, and knowledge to empower you to live a fulfilling and meaningful life.
It can be a difficult decision to seek therapy and also in choosing a therapist. Finding the “right fit” is important. This free 15-minute consultation allows you to get a feeling for how I work, ask questions, and see how we might work together.

Question 2

So what happens in therapy/counselling?

Accepted Answer

First Session

I will invite you to tell me about yourself. What brought you to see me? I will encourage you to share your current circumstances. I will ask what you might be hoping for from our time together. I will take some time to talk about the kind of therapy I do and how it may help. You can learn how I work and ask questions to see if it feels right for you. I want to learn about you so we can work together toward living the life you want to live. We will take a few minutes to go over policies and procedures, including confidentiality and informed consent.
 
My hope from this first session is that you will feel heard, cared for, and hopeful.

What happens next?

Ongoing sessions will involve working together in facing your challenges, working on your goals, and building your strengths and skills. Research shows clients meeting regularly, every 1-2 weeks can have better outcomes. The duration depends on the nature of the problems and your goals. Each step of the way we will evaluate progress. Ultimately, you will decide when you have met your goals.

Sessions are 50 minutes.

Question 3

How does online counselling work?

Accepted Answer

All client interactions are hosted on Jane,  a secure and compliant online platform. Jane provides you with a private and secure Client Portal account where you make online bookings for appointments, access and submit forms, send and receive secure messages, and receive and print your receipts. To begin an Online Appointment, you can click the link found inside your Appointment reminder email, or you can login to your Jane My Account area and then click the blue Begin button next to your appointment to join the video call.

Question 4

Is it confidential?

Accepted Answer

It is important to know the confidentiality guidelines I abide by.  The connection between the client and therapist play a significant role in the effectiveness of therapy. Trust, respect and safety are important factors in the relationship with the therapist. There are limits to confidentiality when a person is in danger of harming themselves or another.

Question 5

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

$165.00 for a 50-minute session.

Question 6

Do you take insurance?

Accepted Answer

I invoice you. You can pay by credit card,  or e-transfer. I will provide a receipt and you make a claim with your insurance provider directly.

What if my insurance runs out?
I believe in an individualized approach and therapy may take several sessions. Insurance may not cover all your sessions. Typically, regular ongoing, weekly or biweekly sessions can provide the most benefit.  Please check with your insurance provider. Here are some things to ask them:
What are my mental health insurance benefits?
Do I have an annual amount and has it been met?
Is there a co-payment per therapy session?
Is there  a limit on how many sessions per year my insurance covers? 
Is a referral required from my primary care physician?

Question 7

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

Life happens and I try to accommodate your needs and circumstances.
If you are unable to attend a session, you are welcome to cancel or reschedule your appointment up to  24 hours beforehand. Cancel by email or through the client online portal up to 24 hours before and use the online booking calendar to find a new date that works for you. For sessions cancelled less than 24 hours in advance, the full cost of the session may be charged.

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