Question 1

Do I need a referral by my Physician?

Accepted Answer

Our services don’t require a referral from your physician however this may be required by your health insurance coverage in order to claim benefits for mental health services. We encourage you to inquire with your insurance provider to understand these details.

Question 2

What can I expect in my first session?

Accepted Answer

The first appointment is called an intake session (can be 1-2 sessions) which involves a detailed assessment to understand your history and background, relationship dynamics and the stressors/challenges that have contributed to your current situation and state. Your therapist will also discuss your goals for therapy and work with you to develop a treatment plan to meet those goals. We aim to make this process a comfortable one and to provide you with a safe place to talk about your concerns.

Question 3

Is there anything I should bring or do to prepare for my first session?

Accepted Answer

The first session with a therapist is a wonderful opportunity to determine if the therapist feels like the right fit. The work of therapy occurs within a trusted relationship, so the fit between the therapist and the client is essential.

Feel free to ask any questions that you may have for the therapist.It’s not a bad idea to reflect on the things that are bothering you and the issues you would like help with. You can even write some of these things down and bring it with you to your first appointment. You might include: Issues in your family or other relationships, Symptoms like changes in eating or sleeping habits, Anger, anxiety, irritability or troubling feelings, Thoughts that bother you, You should tell the therapist why you are there and what you would like to get from therapy.

Question 4

How long are sessions? How often do we meet?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are 50 minutes in length and the frequency depends on your particular situation and the treatment plan that you discuss with your therapist. Often the therapeutic process begins with weekly sessions in order to develop a good therapeutic relationship and foundation to work towards your treatment goals

Question 5

Who can receive services?

Accepted Answer

Individuals, Couples/Partners, Families, Groups, Children (ages 5+), Youth, Adolescence, Adults and Seniors

Question 6

What is Psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

“Psychotherapy is the use of psychological methods, particularly when based on regular personal interaction, to help a person change behaviour, increase happiness, and overcome problems.” - Google

Question 7

Does Psychotherapy work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Research has demonstrated that psychotherapy is an effective treatment for many psychological conditions. There are numerous evidence-based treatments that can help people. Additionally, scientific research has consistently shown that the relationship between therapist and client is a key factor in the success of treatment. Therefore, the treatment approach is tailored to best fit with the client and an emphasis is placed on fostering a collaborative relationship between therapist and client.

Question 8

Who can benefit from psychotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapy can benefit any individual, couple, or family that is struggling with handling life stressors, life changes, and emotional, and behavioral difficulties. Contrary to popular misconceptions, individuals do not need to be suffering from a mental disorder to benefit from psychotherapy. It is the case that many people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders seek out psychotherapy, however, a large percentage of individuals without mental disorders also seek out treatment.

Question 9

Are you qualified to provide psychotherapy treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes I am registered and in good standing with the governing body of my professional practice. All clients seeking psychotherapy services should seek out a qualified professional who is registered with their governing body of professional practice.

Question 10

Is there a minimum age to consent to therapy?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum age for consent. Clients under 18 years of age can, if they are capable of understanding and appreciating the consequences of their decision, give consent. For minors, consent must be considered on a case- by-case basis in light of the young person’s capacity and applicable laws.  A client may be capable of giving consent for one intervention but not for another.

For example, a 15-year-old client might be capable of consenting to group counselling about handling stresses at school, but not be capable of consenting to therapy for a major eating disorder. In each case, the psychotherapist must look at the maturity of the minor.  A client is not capable of giving consent when they do not understand the information provided, or when they do not appreciate the reasonably foreseeable consequences of the decision.

Question 11

What if I do not like my therapist  I am referred to?

Accepted Answer

The therapeutic relationship is key to successful therapy. If you are not comfortable with your therapist, then you can always choose to see someone else who is a better fit for you.  This is what the initial interview is for, but you are always able to terminate the therapy whenever you wish and find a new therapist.

Question 12

Is what I share in my sessions confidential?

Accepted Answer

Confidentiality is one of the cornerstones of therapy. Knowing that you can say anything to your therapist and it will remain between you and the therapist helps you feel safe and builds trust. For this reason, all therapists are legally and ethically bound to keep their sessions confidential and not share with anyone else what was talked about. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

For example, if your therapist has reason to believe that you are a danger to yourself or others, then they must break that confidence in order to make sure that you (or others) are safe from harm. There may also be times when you (or your therapist) would like your therapist to consult with someone else about your treatment, such as your family doctor or psychiatrist. Your therapist must get your written permission for you to release personal health information about you to any other member of your health care alliance.

Frequently asked questions