"There are two great days in a person's life - the day we are born and the day we discover why."
~William Barclay~
Should I book a free consult or a first session?
Should I book a free consult or a first session?
If you're unsure where to start, a free consult is a simple first step. It gives you a chance to share what you're looking for, ask a few questions, & see if the fit feels right. If you're ready to begin, you can book a first session and we'll take it from there.
What can I expect in my first session?
What can I expect in my first session?
Individual sessions are 60 minutes. Couples sessions are 90 minutes so we have enough time to understand the pattern, hear from both partners, and practice new ways of engaging in the session. That space helps build momentum and reduces the “we just got started” feeling.
How long are sessions?
How long are sessions?
Individual sessions are 60 minutes. Couples sessions are 90 minutes so we have enough time to understand the pattern, hear from both partners, and practice new ways of engaging in the session. That space helps build momentum and reduces the “we just got started” feeling.
Wondering why the “Y” is capitalized in mY PSYCHOLOGIST?
Wondering why the “Y” is capitalized in mY PSYCHOLOGIST?
The capital Y is intentional. It’s a cue to get curious: Why now? Why does this keep showing up? Why does it matter to me? Sometimes the “why” is clear; other times it isn’t. Therapy is a place to explore what’s uncertain and turn it into clarity and direction.
How many sessions will I need?
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on what you're coming in for & how complex things feel right right now. If the goal is a focused "tuned-up" in one or two areas, 3-6 sessions can be enough. If things feel more distressed or layered, it may take several months of weekly or bi-weekly sessions (sometimes 10+ sessions) to build steadier, lasting change. We'll talk about goals early on & adjust based on what's most helpful.
Will my extended health insurance cover sessions?
Will my extended health insurance cover sessions?
Many extended health plans include coverage for services provided by a Registered Psychologist or Registered Provisional Psychologist. You can usually find "psychological services" in the same section where your plan lists providers like massage therapy, physiotherapy, or chiropractic care. Coverage varies by plan, so it's worth checking your annual amount & any per-visit limits.
Do you offer in-person and online sessions?
Do you offer in-person and online sessions?
Yes—I offer both. My preference is in-person counselling, because the work I do is experiential and relational. Being face-to-face often makes it easier to slow things down, notice patterns as they happen, and work with emotion and body signals in real time. If online sessions fit your situation better, we can absolutely do that too—what matters most is choosing a format that helps you show up consistently.
What are your fees, and how can I pay for my counselling session?
What are your fees, and how can I pay for my counselling session?
An Hour session is $235. We accept debit, e-transfer, cash and all major credit cards. GST is not charged on psychological services. At this time, direct billing is not available, so you'll be responsible for submitting your receipt to your insurance provider for reimbursement (if applicable).
What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?
What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?
That experience matters, & it's not uncommon. Sometimes therapy doesn't help because the approach didn't fit, the pace wasn't right, or the work stayed mostly in insight without changing what happens in real life. We'll pay attention to what's worked (and what hasn't), & keep the process practical, collaborative, & focused on change you can actually feel & use.
What if my partner is unwilling to participate in couples counselling?
What if my partner is unwilling to participate in couples counselling?
That's more common than people think. Even if your partner isn't ready, you can still make meaningful changes in the relationship. We'll focus on what you can influence--your communication, boundaries, emotional steadiness, & how you respond in the moments that usually go sideways. Sometimes the shift you make changes the whole dynamic, & your partner becomes more open to joining later--but either way, the work can still be valuable.
What are common barriers that keep people from starting therapy?
What are common barriers that keep people from starting therapy?
Most people don't avoid therapy because they don't care--they avoid it because it feels hard to begin. Common Barriers include not knowing where to start, worrying it will be uncomfortable, feeling like your problems aren't "big enough" past experiences where therapy didn't help' or simply being overwhelmed & short on time. Therapy doesn't require perfect readiness. If something matters to you, it's worth exploring--& we can take it one step at a time.
What's the difference between talking to a professional and talking to my friends or family?
What's the difference between talking to a professional and talking to my friends or family?
Support from people you love matters. Talking to a professional is different because it's a dedicated space that's confidential, structured, & focused. You get someone trained to listen without taking sides, help you notice patterns you're not always see on your own, & teach skills you can actually use. It can also protect your relationships outside therapy--so you don't have to worry about overloading the people close to you or feeling stuck in the same conversations.