Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people attend therapy sessions?

People see a therapist or practitioner for a wide range of reasons. Sometimes a specific event occurs that causes an individual to seek out help, while others may attend therapy because it provides a trained objective person to help them work through issues they have been struggling with for years.

 Therapeutic Counselling can be beneficial because a client may feel a sense of control in their life and have the tools to change, or make better decisions in the future. Therapy is a collaborative event, it requires an active role from both the client and the therapist for change to occur.

How long is therapy & how many sessions will I need?

Therapy sessions are typically 60 minutes in length. Clients typically meet on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis depending on the their individual needs. The length of time while in therapy will depend on the individual client circumstance. Some treatment plans are based on situational/short term therapy, while others are based on longer in-depth healing work. The therapist and client will determine that together. You are free to start and stop therapy at any time you wish. However, some consistency will yield better results. Some clients will benefit from regular long term therapy, and some clients will come and go, in and out of therapy throughout their lifetime as needed.

What are some signs that I might need therapy or professional support?

• you just don’t feel like yourself

• your relationships are suffering

• your emotions feel out of control

• you’re altering aspects of your life to accommodate your feelings

• you’re spending a lot of time thinking about your emotions and challenges 

• you’re engaging in high risk, or addictive behaviours

What is the first session like?

The initial appointment will be an assessment to discuss your history, to share more about who you are and develop a therapeutic treatment plan. During the first session, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, review policies and determine if it's the right fit for you. 

Should I prepare for my sessions?

Keeping an open mind about therapy, and being open to the possibility that it can help you is great preparation. Writing down specific topics and issues you want to cover is useful, it can be easy to draw a blank if you're a bit nervous during your first appointment. Speak your mind; your thoughts, and opinions are just as important as your therapist's. 

How do I keep making progress in therapy?

• Keeping up with any homework your therapist assigns

• Maintaining the momentum with consistent therapy sessions

• Being open and truthful about the issues and challenges you’re facing

• Asking questions and giving feedback to your therapist

Are my sessions confidential?

Yes, therapy is completely confidential. Online/Tele-therapy sessions conducted over Google Meet are PHIPA and HIPPA compliant, and all data is encrypted and secure. What you discuss during your therapy sessions is kept confidential. No contents of the therapy sessions, whether verbal or written may be shared with another party without your written consent or the written consent of your legal guardian.

Exceptions are:

a) duty to warn or protect; if you disclose a plan or threat to harm yourself or others, the appropriate authorities will be notified

b) if you disclose, or it is suspected that there is abuse or harmful neglect of children or vulnerable adults (i.e. the elderly, disabled/incompetent), the appropriate agencies and authorities will be notified

c) parents or legal guardians of minor patients have the right to access records

d) requests ordered by the court of law

How does online/Tele-therapy work?

Tele-therapy is a way to meet with your therapist through a video platform. You will need a reliable internet connection. Sessions can take place on any device of your choosing including a phone, tablet or computer. Therapeutic treatment is exactly the same as it would be in person and just as effective. As well, Tele-therapy allows more convenience, accessibility and sometimes lower rates. You can schedule your appointment through the online calendar, or email, or text for more assistance. All sessions are conducted through Google Meet. 

Do I need a referral?

You do not need a referral to book an appointment or start seeing a therapist. It is however, a good idea to keep your primary care physician/family doctor up to date with all treatment you are receiving.

How do Therapists work with other healthcare providers?

To preserve the continuity of care, it’s important to work with school counsellors, psychologists, primary care physicians, psychiatrists, etc. With written permission, therapists can provide treatment plans or answer questions that other professionals may have. If a client needs their therapist to work with other professionals in their life, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Each therapist/Practitioner will have their own skill set, training and scope of practice based on education and regulatory bodies. If your therapist feels that you may need additional specialized support like medical diagnosis or medication, they will recommend a physician referral. For more complex conditions/issues, it is very common to see multiple healthcare providers simultaneously to ensure the best possible outcome and treatment. 

Do you accept insurance?

No direct billing to insurance companies is provided. However, many extended health care plans may cover mental health therapy and/or holistic services. Please check with your individual insurance company. Record of treatment and invoices are available upon request.