Faq
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer a free consultation before I book my first appointment?
Yes. Taking the first step in searching for a psychotherapist is often the biggest one. When you make the first contact and reach out to me, I will provide a free 15-minute telephone consultation. It can be helpful to understand the nature of your concerns, answer your questions, and ensure my experiences align with your needs. If you prefer to only email that is also fine. If we decide to proceed, we can set up a time to meet in my office or online.
What can I expect at the first appointment?
During our first session you will meet with me in a safe, quiet and private space, away from the demands of your day-to-day life. You will be invited to share your story and experiences, explore your thoughts, concerns, or feelings. You will not need to tell me everything at the initial session, just enough to help me understand what it is that brought you to see me. You will have a better understanding about what to expect and have an opportunity to ask me questions. We will discuss your goals begin to develop a treatment plan that best fits your needs.
Do I need a referral from a physician?
You do not need a referral from a physician and self-referrals are accepted. Just go to the contact page to make a self-referral.
Is everything we talk about confidential?
I respect your right to confidentiality and information you shared with me will not be shared with anyone else without your written consent. However, risk of harm to yourself or someone else, and risk of abuse or harm to a child are exceptions to this confidentiality. This will be explained in more detail when we begin our work together.
How long are sessions and how often should we meet?
Sessions are 50 minutes long and occur once a week or every other week, depending on the nature of your concerns. Weekly sessions can help develop a strong therapeutic rapport and establish momentum towards your goals. Session frequency is tapered as you progress.
Do you give homework between sessions?
The word "homework" can create anxiety in some clients, so I often refer to it as follow-up items or self-work, or anything the client finds more fitting. It's important to practice what you've learned in our sessions, but this trigger and other factors can affect a person's ability to follow through. I base these follow-up items on the client's own unique needs, abilities, learning style, and circumstances in order to develop activities as appropriate. Some examples may include worksheets, journals, books, reflections, relaxation, mindfulness, and so on. We will decide these together.
What are your hours?
I see clients between Tuesdays and Fridays and offer morning, afternoon, and also evening hours a few days a week. Please check about current evening availability as it can be limited, especially certain times of the year.
What payment methods do you accept?
For virtual sessions I accept e-transfer or credit card and in-office I accept cash, credit card, e-transfer or cheque as payment options.
Is coaching different from therapy?
Yes. Coaching doesn't directly focus on your past or emotional healing or mental health. Rather, coaching identifies actions that will help achieve your life goals in the here and now. It is not uncommon to work with a coach while you work with a therapist or counselor. Many coaches also have backgrounds as therapists or counselors. It is important to be clear about which service you are seeking.