What is counselling, and how can it help me?

Counselling is a collaborative process where you work with a trained professional to address personal issues and develop coping strategies. It can help you gain insight, manage emotions, and improve your overall well-being

How does counselling work?

Counselling sessions are conducted via a secure video conferencing platform called Jane. The Jane App is in strict accordance with PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) and PHIPA ( Personal Health Information Protection Act) legislation. After you book an appointment, you will receive a secure link, and have confidential sessions from the comfort of your own space.

What can I expect in my first counselling session?

In your initial session, I will conduct an assessment to better understand your concerns and goals. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions and discuss how you’d like to proceed with counselling.

Do you work at more than one location?

Yes. I also work at Your Story Counselling. I provide in-person, virtual and couples therapy. To book a session at Your Story Counselling, please click on this link: https://yourstory.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/41

Do you offer evening or weekend appointments? Do you provide in-person sessions?

My regular work hours are Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm. However, I do offer flexible scheduling depending on my availability that week. So please email me to schedule a weekend or evening appointment.

Yes, I provide in person sessions at Your Story Counselling on Thursday evenings from 3 pm to 7 pm and on Saturdays from 10 am to 3 pm.

How much does counselling cost, and do you accept insurance?

I charge $140 per session and also offer sliding scale.

For insurance, I do not have the capability to directly bill your insurance policy. After you make the payment for the session, I will send you a receipt. Once you receive the receipt and provide it to the insurance company, then you should receive your reimbursement. However, it is also important to keep in mind that most insurance companies offer multiple policy options, so it is important to review your policy to confirm whether it covers services provided by Registered Psychotherapists (R.P.).

Does OHIP cover therapy?

Unfortunately, OHIP does not cover therapy.

How long does a counselling session typically last?

Sessions typically last between 50 to 60 minutes, but the duration may vary depending on your specific needs and therapist recommendations.

Is counselling confidential and what if I see my therapist in public?

According to the ethical guidelines set forth by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA), counseling is generally confidential. Therapists are bound by ethical and legal obligations to maintain the confidentiality of the information shared during counseling sessions.

However, it's important to note that there are certain exceptions to confidentiality. These exceptions typically include situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, cases involving child abuse or neglect, or when ordered by a court of law. Therapists will inform you about the limits of confidentiality during your initial sessions.

Regarding the situation where you might encounter your therapist in public, the CCPA guidelines emphasize the importance of therapist-client boundaries and the need to protect your privacy and confidentiality. If you happen to see your therapist in a public setting, the ethical guidelines suggest that the therapist should respect your privacy and maintain your confidentiality. They should not approach you or disclose your therapeutic relationship to others without your consent.

However, if you choose to approach your therapist in public, it is generally considered acceptable, but the therapist should follow your lead and ensure that you are comfortable with any interaction that may occur in that setting. Ultimately, the goal is to prioritize your confidentiality and well-being in such situations while respecting your autonomy.