FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Therapy Right for Me?
I don’t really like ‘shoulds’ – though I struggle with them too – but I believe that most people can benefit from having someone who is not a part of their daily lives to provide non-judgmental listening and support. If you absolutely hate the idea of therapy, then it might not be for you – or the timing might not be right. If you are curious about it but nervous, please contact me to see if I might be a good fit for you. If you decide that it’s not for you or not the right time, I will completely understand.
There are many psychotherapists, social workers and psychologists around, but you need to find the right person for you. I have been working in the field for 15 years, moving to private practice over 8 years ago from a hospital-based community organization supporting cancer patients and their families through all the stages of illness. I have presented at national conferences and offered workshops to a variety of organizations in addition to many support groups for cancer patients (including young adults), caregivers, and those who are bereaved. I’ve also been through many transitions of my own, including changing careers later in life and perimenopause, so I’m very aware of the significance and the turbulence that often comes with major transitions.
I am compassionate and open to whatever you bring to our sessions, and I will tailor my interventions to your needs using a person-centred approach. I also like to laugh and I often use humour in sessions; it can lighten things up when they’re too intense and it also allows us to go deeper and to play with things that are hard. But the only way you will know if I’m right for you is if you feel comfortable when you’re with me. Please contact me to find out!
There was a time when virtual therapy was inconceivable. Then a little thing called covid came to town and changed everything. I was surprised and relieved to learn that virtual therapy (by video or phone) can be just as effective – and feel just as connected – as when we’re in the same room. It also solves the issues of travel time in a limited schedule, poor weather, parking or transit issues, and concerns for immunocompromised or disabled clients and/ or their caregivers. If virtual therapy is not for you, happily there are many practitioners who offer in-person sessions. Trust your gut. If you’re on the fence, why not try a consultation to see how it feels?
While oncology is a specialty of mine – both for patients and caregivers – I also work in other areas including chronic and acute illness in general, grief, life transitions (and the stress and anxiety that often come with them), and self-esteem issues.
What to Expect
This is a great question. I have clients I see weekly, monthly and everything in between. It’s generally helpful to start more frequently as we’re getting to know each other, but it has to fit with your schedule, your budget, and your life. Let’s talk about what works best for you.
Again, a great question that varies greatly. Some people come for 1 – 3 sessions to deal with a particular life challenge and find that it’s enough to normalize what they’re going through and get some tools to manage it better. Other people stay in therapy for years: some for regular check-ins and a safe place to share life issues; some will go months or years without therapy and then want to come back and process a loss, an illness or a life transition. My door is always open.
Psychotherapists focus on providing evidence-based psychotherapy (“talk therapy”). They are trained therapists but do not provide formal diagnoses or psychological testing, and they cannot prescribe medication. For many people seeking therapy for everyday mental health concerns such as anxiety, stress, relationship issues, depression, or personal growth and development, an RP (Registered Psychotherapist) is an excellent option.
Psychologists have extensive training in psychology and mental health assessment. They can diagnose mental health conditions, perform formal psychological testing (e.g., ADHD assessments, learning disability assessments, cognitive testing), and provide evidence-based therapy but cannot prescribe medication. Psychologists are often the best choice when you need a detailed assessment or diagnosis in addition to therapy.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health. They can diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe and manage medications, order medical tests and provide therapy (though many don’t or in a limited way). If someone has severe depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or needs medication assessment, a psychiatrist is often involved. Psychiatric care is generally covered by OHIP when accessed through a referral.
This is a new idea for most people. Rest assured that it is entirely optional. If you’re curious about it, know that there’s no performance involved and no acting talent required. It is a creative-arts-based therapeutic tool that is adapted to you and can be used to explore different parts of you in a less cerebral, more playful way. It can involve using metaphors and imagination to explore your experience, role playing various situations, and seeing how shifting how you hold your body can lead to shifts in your mind or identity.
Fees & Insurance
I accept e-transfers and credit card payments prior to or by the end of each session.
Registered psychotherapists (RPs) and Canadian certified counsellors (CCCs) – I hold both certifications – are usually covered by private insurance (though sadly not by OHIP). Please check with your provider to determine if you are covered and for how much. This may impact the number and frequency of sessions. And a reminder that therapy is considered a medical expense for your personal taxes.
Appointments
Psychotherapy is regulated provincially. I am registered with the CRPO (College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario) which means that I can see anyone living in the province of Ontario.
Yes. I offer bilingual psychotherapy and facilitation.
I require 24 hours notice in order to cancel a session without payment. If a client does not show up to session without notice, the session must be paid in full.
Getting Started
Feel free to send me an email, give me a call, or send a message on my contact page to set up a free consultation or an appointment.
Yes, I offer free 15-minute consultations by phone or the secure video platform that I use. I’m happy to set one up if you’re curious about me, about therapy, or about how it might be helpful for you. There is never any pressure to book a session afterwards and only you will know if it feels right for you at this time.