How does therapy work?
Therapy generally proceeds in three parts: evaluation, therapy, and maintenance.
The first one to three appointments are part of the evaluation process. In addition to the information that you share in session with me, you will be asked to complete one or more questionnaires.
At the end of the evaluation, I will be able to indicate to you whether you are accepted for treatment, to explain my professional view of the likely reasons for and sources of your current concerns, and to give you an overview of the treatment components from which I believe you are likely to benefit. If you are not a good candidate for therapy with me, I will guide you toward other resources.
If we decide to continue working together, you and I will begin each therapy session by checking in on your week and progress, and collaboratively setting goals for the session. At the end of each session, we will then mutually agree upon the strategies you will practice between sessions. To be most effective, you should aim to dedicate about 10-15 minutes to your therapy homework daily. Research shows that clients who practice their skills regularly benefit the most from therapy.
In general, therapy tends to proceed most effectively when we begin by meeting every one to two weeks, and then gradually space out sessions as you make progress. The number of times we meet will depend on the severity of your concerns, the number of goals you set, and how much you practice the skills we discuss.
Once your goals are achieved, we may meet a couple of more times to ensure maintenance of gains.
How long are sessions? Sessions are 50 minutes, as is standard in psychotherapy.
How much does therapy cost?
- The fee is $230 per 50-minute session, payable in credit or e-transfer at the time of the session.
- Most insurance companies cover psychological services provided by a registered psychologist. To know your specific coverage details, check with your company’s group benefits administrator or your insurance provider. I will provide you with the necessary receipts.
Canceling a session. To avoid paying for a missed session, please give me at least 24 hours’ notice to change or cancel a session.
Confidentiality. Everything you share with me is confidential. I will not release any information about you without your written permission, except in the following situations:
- You are at risk of harming yourself or someone else.
- You disclose that a child or vulnerable adult is being abused.
- You disclose that a regulated health professional has sexually abused you.
- You disclose that you have been sexually abused by a regulated health professional.
Read more about confidentiality.
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