FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Why is therapy a good idea?
Counselling is there to support people trying to cope with a wide range of circumstances. Unfortunately, there are so many misconceptions all over our society about what it means to talk to a mental health professional. So often, the need to talk about your emotions is taken as being weak. That stigma is so powerful that it often prevents people from seeking help in the first place
When friends and family aren’t always the best sources of support or information, we often find ourselves resorting to the internet to solve our programs. Most of the time, neither of those options are effective. Friends and family can mean well, but they are coming to the table with their own thoughts and opinions that could influence the advice they are giving you.
As a therapist, we make sure to approach your issues neutrally and learn to understand your thought process in order to give support that will truly serve you. A professional counsellor can help you work through just about everything. They go through years of education and training, and many of them have seen a huge variety of situations and experiences. You can always feel comfortable seeking help from a counsellor because they are as objective as it gets, and the best part is that everything is confidential.
How do I choose a therapist?
There are so many options when it comes to counsellors that it can feel pretty overwhelming trying to decide who you should reach out to. Here are some ideas you can look for when choosing between potential counsellors.
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See if they specialize and/or have training in your specific area of struggle.
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Are they trained and utilize therapy modalities you think would be useful for you? (If you don’t know, don’t hesitate to reach out and ask!)
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Do they seem to have the right energy or “vibe” on their website and social media?
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How do others talk about them. Have any friends or family members had a successful experience with that counsellor?
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How do they make you feel when you get in touch with them? Do they make you feel calm and hopeful about getting started?
Bottom line: don't hesitate to reach out to a handful of therapists to see who might be the best fit. If you attend your first session and it doesn't feel right, don't be afraid to restart the process. Therapists are used to this, and should not take it personally. The most important thing is that you feel a strong therapeutic relationship with your therapist so that lasting positive changes can be made in your life.
How do I find a counsellor? Where do I even start?
Sometimes, just finding a therapist is one of the biggest hurdles for people interested in counselling or psychotherapy.
If you are feeling that way, you are not alone (but if you're here reading this page, then you've already taken the first step and for that, you should be proud!).
If I am not the right therapist for you, some great options to find counsellors are:
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Just asking around - Referrals from friends, medical providers, or others in your community is a great way to get some potential therapists names.
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Therapist directories - Some therapists directories such as Psychology Today or TheraVive are quick and easy ways to look at therapists profiles, areas of interest, specialities and training.
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Social Media - Instagram, Facebook, Twitter etc. are ways many private practitioners or agencies are advertising their services.
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Google - Google is a fantastic way to see a list of therapists (and everything else, really) near you.
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Employee Assistance Benefits - If you have EAP through your work, you may have an option to go through your insurance provider.
How long does counselling last?
When it comes to counselling and psychotherapy, everyone's needs and goals are vastly different, therefore it is nearly impossible to state an exact timeline for counselling.
How long counselling lasts depends on many factors; you may have multiple things you want to process and work through, or a relatively straightforward singular problem you just want to vent about.
Some therapy treatment types are short term, while others may last much longer. Practically speaking, maybe your insurance coverage/finances might also limit you.
However, regardless of what you are wanting counselling to address, the length of therapy is an important aspect to bring up with your therapist at the beginning. This will give both you and your therapist an idea of what goals to work towards and what you want to accomplish.
Never be afraid to revisit this issue at any time during the therapy process. Remember, goals are always changing and life is constantly evolving, as humans we have to be open to changing with it!
How much do you charge?
Fees are set in accordance with the recommended fee range for social workers in private practice established by the Ontario Association of Social Workers http://www.oasw.org/. The clinical services provided by a social worker are HST exempt. Payments for sessions are due at the end of each session and can be paid by MasterCard, Visa or e-transfer. Receipts are issued upon payment. Requests for letters/reports will be charged at my usual hourly rate for completion.
Private social work counselling services are not covered by OHIP. However, there are extended health care companies who offer full or partial coverage for mental health services when provided by a Registered Social Worker. Clients are encouraged to contact their insurance providers in order to determine coverage prior to our first meeting.
For those who qualify, I am an approved First Nation & Inuit Health Benefit Mental Health Counselling Service Provider and can accept NIHB and IRS clients. If you are unable to make your session for any reason, please provide as much notice as possible. Missed sessions (or cancellations with less than 24 hours notice) will be charged to the client.