Here is a list of frequently asked questions about the therapy process and my services:
(1) What is counselling/psychotherapy/therapy?
Counselling involves the development of a therapeutic relationship between one or more individuals and a therapist. The focus is on the individual(s) presenting concerns and challenges. Counselling can help people develop a better understanding of who they are and how their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions are impacting their quality of life. It also helps connect people back to their inner resources to allow for better, more satisfying emotional and social functioning. Most importantly people can hopefully have access to a safe space to be heard and understood.
(2) How do I choose a therapist that is the best fit for me?
It is completely normal in the mental health field for you to look around and find a therapist that best fits you and your goals for counselling. This can take some time and may involve you having to try working with a few therapists until you find someone that feels right for you. I also feel that there has to be a good match between the client and the therapist in order for a good working relationship to build. This can be determined after the first session or it can take longer. If the fit of the services do not meet your needs, it is always your right to change your mind at any time and referrals are always provided for other resources or to individuals who specialize in certain areas.
(3) Are services confidential? What does that mean?
Although this will be thoroughly discussed in our first session together (and in future sessions as needed), it is important to know that as a professional member of Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) #14388, I adhere to the standards of confidentiality outlined by the CCPA. There are very few limitations to our confidentiality, and you will be made aware of these in our first session. In addition, before you share any information with me, I will be very clear about who may have access to any of the information that you provide in your sessions.
(4) How long is a typical counselling session and how much does it cost?
Sessions are 50 minutes in length with 10 minutes to write case notes after the session is completed.
The cost is $150 an hour or a sliding scale rate.
(5) How long will counselling take?
The length of time it takes to successfully complete the counselling process depends on the nature of your presenting concern, your needs, and your goals for counselling. Some clients complete their work in as little as 4 - 5 sessions, but for more long-standing concerns the time to see lasting change can be longer. When you come in for your first session and we have discussed your goals for counselling a better indication of the time frame may be possible. Some also come for awhile and return later as well.
(6) What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an appointment, I ask that you contact me as soon as possible. In order to avoid a charge for a missed appointment, please provide as least 48 hours’ notice of your cancellation.
(7) Do I need a referral to make an appointment?
No, a referral is not needed. However, I will contact you once I have received your information so we can set up a 15-minute phone consultation to determine whether I am able to offer you the best services to meet your needs.
(8) What is your access during the pandemic?
At this point in time all my sessions will be by video or by phone.
(1) What is counselling/psychotherapy/therapy?
Counselling involves the development of a therapeutic relationship between one or more individuals and a therapist. The focus is on the individual(s) presenting concerns and challenges. Counselling can help people develop a better understanding of who they are and how their behaviors, thoughts, and emotions are impacting their quality of life. It also helps connect people back to their inner resources to allow for better, more satisfying emotional and social functioning. Most importantly people can hopefully have access to a safe space to be heard and understood.
(2) How do I choose a therapist that is the best fit for me?
It is completely normal in the mental health field for you to look around and find a therapist that best fits you and your goals for counselling. This can take some time and may involve you having to try working with a few therapists until you find someone that feels right for you. I also feel that there has to be a good match between the client and the therapist in order for a good working relationship to build. This can be determined after the first session or it can take longer. If the fit of the services do not meet your needs, it is always your right to change your mind at any time and referrals are always provided for other resources or to individuals who specialize in certain areas.
(3) Are services confidential? What does that mean?
Although this will be thoroughly discussed in our first session together (and in future sessions as needed), it is important to know that as a professional member of Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA) #14388, I adhere to the standards of confidentiality outlined by the CCPA. There are very few limitations to our confidentiality, and you will be made aware of these in our first session. In addition, before you share any information with me, I will be very clear about who may have access to any of the information that you provide in your sessions.
(4) How long is a typical counselling session and how much does it cost?
Sessions are 50 minutes in length with 10 minutes to write case notes after the session is completed.
The cost is $150 an hour or a sliding scale rate.
(5) How long will counselling take?
The length of time it takes to successfully complete the counselling process depends on the nature of your presenting concern, your needs, and your goals for counselling. Some clients complete their work in as little as 4 - 5 sessions, but for more long-standing concerns the time to see lasting change can be longer. When you come in for your first session and we have discussed your goals for counselling a better indication of the time frame may be possible. Some also come for awhile and return later as well.
(6) What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel an appointment, I ask that you contact me as soon as possible. In order to avoid a charge for a missed appointment, please provide as least 48 hours’ notice of your cancellation.
(7) Do I need a referral to make an appointment?
No, a referral is not needed. However, I will contact you once I have received your information so we can set up a 15-minute phone consultation to determine whether I am able to offer you the best services to meet your needs.
(8) What is your access during the pandemic?
At this point in time all my sessions will be by video or by phone.