FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What to Expect

I offer a complimentary introductory telephone consultation. Consultations normally last about 15 minutes. This will allow us an opportunity to get a sense of one another. We will use this time to briefly discuss what you are looking for, and I can answer any questions you may have regarding the process, my counselling approach and what you might expect. At the end of the introductory consultation, you can decide whether or not you would like to schedule an appointment for an assessment.

When you schedule your first appointment, I will send you an intake form to be completed and brought to the initial session. Each session includes 50 minutes in therapeutic work and then the last 5 minutes discussing any administrative details, such as scheduling our next appointment.

The first one to two assessment sessions gives us an opportunity to discuss your concerns in more detail, prioritize the areas in your life you would like to focus on and set up goals for counselling to help you thrive in the areas you wish to focus on.  The sessions to follow would generally be weekly and then we would move to bi-weekly sessions if that appears appropriate. The duration of your counselling would depend on your needs and goals. Individual counselling is short-term in nature lasting anywhere between 6 and 12 sessions. Couples therapy can vary between 8 - 20 sessions.   If needed, counselling can be provided on a longer term basis depending on your personal needs and goals. Please note that at any time you can revise or change your goals to suit your needs.  Throughout counselling, I may suggest take-home practices or handouts; as well as offer book recommendations or other resources that may be helpful for you. 

Confidentiality

All information you share with me is confidential and will not be disclosed to any third party without your written permission except as required by law. I will discuss confidentiality in detail during the initial consultation.

Fees

Payment for services is due at the beginning or end of each session and a receipt will be given when payment is received. Fees may be paid by cheque or cash. If you prefer to pay by e-transfer, I require that the transfer be sent right before our session.

Social work counselling services are not covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). These services are often partially or fully covered under private health plans or employee group benefits plans. Coverage plans differ, so please check with your plan regarding coverage and claim procedures. If applicable, please keep your receipts for your benefit plan and/or for income tax purposes. 

Cancellation Policy

Please be mindful that our appointments are scheduled especially for you, therefore I kindly ask you to provide me with 24-48 hour notice if you intend to cancel your appointment with me. Every effort will be made to reschedule sessions when enough notice is provided. Please note, the full fee for your appointment will be required for cancelled appointments with less than 24-hour notice.