How long are therapy sesions?
Sessions are 50 minutes long
How much do sessions cost?
Sessions cost $150. Payments can be through Interac e-Transfer or cash. If you are in financial need, let's talk about it! I hate to have finances be a barrier to therapy, and we can discuss a sliding scale rate.
Do you accept insurance or extended health benefits?
Psychotherapy is currently not covered by OHIP. Although I do not currently provide any direct billing to insurance providers, you will be provided with a receipt following each session that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. It is the responsibility of the client to check with their extended benefits provider to make sure services are covered. Please make sure that services provided by a "Registered Psychotherapist" are covered.
Where are sessions?
In person sessions take place in Hamilton, ON at the Hamilton Therapy Collective building located at 185 Young St, Suite 102, Hamilton, ON L8N 1V9.
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Virtual sessions take place on the secure online Jane App platform. That means you can be (pretty much) anywhere in Ontario while working on your mental health! All you need is a phone or computer with a camera, microphone, and a stable internet connection. No special software downloads required!
What can I expect in sessions?
I like to try to create a warm and inviting space in order for you to feel safe while processing your emotions. We will spend time talking about your goals for therapy and I work together to develop a plan for your sessions. Ultimately, these are your sessions and I am here as a guide to help support you. There may be laughing, crying, and relief - but I will make sure that you never feel unsafe in our sessions. Additionally, if you are interested in music therapy, we will spend some time discussing how we can incorporate music into your sessions.
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If you are interested in Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) for PTSD, sessions will look a little different. PE has over 30 years worth of research and strong recommendations from many regulatory and professional organizations saying that it is a very effective method for addressing PTSD symptoms. Typically lasting about 10-12 sessions, time is spent doing imaginal exposures and real life behavioural exposures in order to decrease avoidance and PTSD symptoms in a safe and controlled manner. I'd love to tell you more about it and we can work together to see if this would be a good fit!
I've never been to therapy before - how can I prepare?
Great question! Check out this post on my blog for in depth information!
Are sessions confidential?
Yes! All sessions follow strict confidentiality agreements in accordance to guidelines from the Government of Ontario and the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario except in cases as required by law. For more information, see the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 (PHIPA) or the CRPO guidelines.
What's the difference between a psychiatrist, psychologist, and a psychotherapist?
This is a great question. There is a lot of confusion surrounding this because our roles are so similar, but have key differences. In short:
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Psychiatrist: This is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health. They are able to prescribe medication for mental health. Some psychiatrists practice psychotherapy, but they typically refer out to other mental health professionals to do this.
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Psychologist: A psychologist has received a doctoral degree in psychology and is able to provide psychotherapy, as well as administer certain psychological tests (ex. providing a formal diagnosis for ADHD or autism). Individuals in this field typically have extensive training in psychological research. Psychologists are not able to prescribe medication.
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Psychotherapist: These clinicians have received a Masters degree in a field such as Mental Health Counseling and are qualified to provide psychotherapy. Psychotherapists in Ontario are not permitted to prescribe medication or diagnose, but they are very qualified to provide psychotherapy to a wide variety of populations.
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All three of these professions are very qualified to provide psychotherapy. Ideally, we work together as a team to provide you with comprehensive mental health care.
I'm experiencing suicidal thoughts and don't feel safe, what do I do?
Click here for crisis resources in your area. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
I have a question that wasn't answered here!
Let's talk! I offer free 15min initial consultations to answer questions. Click here to contact me or book the initial free consultation!