Frequently Asked Questions
What is your approach to counselling?
As a trauma counsellor, I can support you in addressing feelings of shame, guilt, sadness, anger, or fear. Together, we will address your current challenges, get curious about deeper emotions, beliefs and disruptive patterns, experiment with new coping resources, and increase your sense of connection to yourself and your loved ones. My approach is informed by many theories, philosophies, and modalities:
Eye-movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT)
Acceptance-and-Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Somatic Experiencing (SE)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Feminist Theory
Attachment Theory
Queer Theory
Harm Reduction
Trauma-informed Practice
What do we do in counselling?
Most of our work together will be through conversation. In the first session or two, I’ll usually guide things by asking questions so I can get to know you and understand what you’re hoping to explore in counselling. From there, we’ll figure out what approaches feel right for you. For example, some people enjoy reading something and talking it through with me; others prefer to leave with a writing prompt for next time; and some like using part of the session to practice grounding strategies. I’ll also check in regularly to see how the process is feeling for you.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
Going to therapy with someone new for the first time can be intimidating. The first session is about getting to know you and what you hope to get out of the therapy process. You can ask any questions you have about counselling or how I work. You will not be expected to share details of painful past experiences.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You don’t necessarily need to make that decision just yet. During our consultation, collaboratively, we will explore where you are at, what you are looking for, and how we can potentially get you there.
How many sessions do I need to attend?
As many as you need. There is no pre-set amount of sessions or obligation in terms of a minimum or maximum number of sessions to attend. The number of sessions will vary from person to person. Generally, some clients may need 6-10 sessions, whereas others who achieve their therapy goals may choose to reconnect as needed for self-development purposes.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, you’re required to do so at least 24-hours prior to your scheduled session via email, otherwise it gets charged in full.
Do my benefits cover therapy?
You may be covered for therapy depending on your insurance provider as well as your coverage. The best way to find out would be to consult with your insurance provider directly.
I strongly recommend contacting your insurance provider early on in the process so that you know what your options are.
How much is your fee?
I am currently seeing individual clients for $160+GST per 50-minute session and relationship clients for $180+GST per 80-minute session. These prices reflect the time and effort I have put into growing as a therapist, including specialized training, supervision, and consultation. Please let me know if you are experiencing financial barriers and would like to discuss reduced counselling rates.
Will the information I share be kept private?
Your privacy is of utmost importance to me. All of the information shared in session will be kept confidential so that you can feel safe discussing anything as needed.
Please note that there are a few exceptions where confidentiality would need to be broken. Those details will be discussed during our consultation.