Evidence shows that one of the biggest factors for change in therapy is the relationship between the client and counsellor.

During our first therapy session together, the focus is on building a strong client-counsellor relationship. Where we will discuss your reasons for seeking counselling, your expectations and goals, and learn about your life in finer detail.

I'm open to providing information about myself if you're interested. This is another chance for us to assess if we're a good fit and establish trust for our therapeutic work together.

My approach to the frequency of counselling sessions is client-centered, together we can determine how often works best for you and your goals.

However most clients find it beneficial to start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions and later reassess based on their needs and affordability. The flexibility in scheduling allows for a personalized approach to therapy.

As a Registered Professional Counsellor Candidate (RPC-C) I am covered by many insurance providers. However, I encourage you to check with your insurance provider to ensure they cover sessions with an RPC, as occasionally they only cover sessions with a psychologist or Registered Clinical Counsellor’s (see next FAQ to learn the difference).

Here are a few Insurer’s I know have covered Registered Professional Counsellor’s in the past;

Aspira

Blue Cross

ComPsych

Great West Life

Green Shield

Homewood Health

Lifeworks (formerly known as Ceridian)

Manulife

Morneau Shepell

Municipal Fire Dept.

Optima Global Health

Pacific Blue Cross

Pacific Life

Shepell-fgi

Sunlife

Victim Services and other providers

Counsellors/Therapists: Hold a Diploma or Master’s Degree and provide clinical counselling and for various emotional challenges and mental health difficulties like anxiety, grief & loss, depression, trauma, and more. They offer primarily talk therapy but are not qualified to provide clinical diagnoses.

Psychologists: Hold a Doctoral degree and can provide talk therapy and comprehensive assessments. They offer diagnostic information to help understand mental health difficulties in depth but do not prescribe medications. Some psychologists also pursue academic careers.

Psychiatrists: Are medical professionals with specialized training in mental health challenges. They can prescribe medication to help manage mental health issues and possess expertise in the interactions between psychotropic medications and the mind and body.

In the event that you are unable to keep your scheduled appointment, please contact me by email at least 24 hrs prior to your scheduled appointment. If I do not hear from you within this time frame and you do not keep your session the Missed Appointment policy will apply. (Missed Appointment policy: Client to be charged full cost of missed session)

Note: I recognize that there are circumstances that are out of our control (sudden illness, family emergencies, etc.) therefore, I may make an exception to the above policy.