Psychotherapy FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. I have not been to counselling/therapy before. What does a session with you look like?
   
   From the outside, a session might look like any other focused and important conversation between two people in a quiet and comfortable environment. We will sit across from each other and explore the issue that brought you into therapy. I will listen carefully to get a good understanding of what you are saying and how you are feeling about it. At times, I might ask you to clarify something and/or provide feedback for you. While therapy might look like a conversation from the outside, there are important distinctions between the two. The therapeutic relationship has very clear boundaries, is goal directed, focused, and purposeful.
   
   
2. After I contact you for the first time, how long will it take for you to see me?
   
   I usually contact new referrals within one or two business days and try to schedule an appointment within a week.
   
   
3. How often should I come to therapy?
   
   In the beginning of therapy, it is best to come at least once a week until a solid therapeutic relationship has developed. After that, some clients decide to switch to a different schedule.
   
   
4. How long are the sessions?
   
   The sessions are sixty minutes long.
   
   
5. Is the cost of your sessions covered or do I have to pay for them?
   
   My work is not covered by OHIP but by some Extended Health Insurance Plans. The client pays me in cash or cheque at the end of each session and, where applicable, he/she can apply to be reimbursed his/her Extended Health Insurance Plan.
   
   
6. What is your cancellation policy?
   
   To avoid paying for the sessions, clients are required to cancel sessions that they cannot attend at least 24 hour before the scheduled time.
   
   
7. How do I get the most out of therapy?
   
   Therapy is a good investment into your life and your future. To get the most out of it:
   • Be an active participant in the process. Speak about what is going on for you, ask questions if you like, and reflect on your experience.
   • Organize your schedule in such a way that you can come to your appointments.
   • Budget for the expense of therapy
   
   
   
8. Are the sessions confidential?
   
   Yes, the sessions are confidential. That means that I cannot tell anyone that you are a client, or what we talk about in the sessions without your written consent. However, there are some exceptions to this rule that you should know about. Confidentially will have to be broken if:
   • The client threatens to hurt another person
   • The client tells me that he/she will try to commit suicide
   • If my files or I will be subpoenaed by the courts
   • If a child is being abused
   • If a professional is abusing you