Where to Start, First Sessions, and More

The first step is reaching out by email.  Email is the best and fastest way to get a response and answers to your questions.   Let me know ages and what you are looking for so that we can determine if my services are the right fit for you.

Even with restrictions lifting, screening and sanitization protocols will remain the same and I am continuing to require that clients do not attend in-person therapy sessions if displaying any COVID-19 symptoms.  Masks are still going to be required in my office for sometime after the province lifts the requirements.  The office is sanitized between clients.  There is also an air purifier/filter running in the room. 

Please see the Covid-19 Protocols page for more detailed information. 

In the first session we will go over the policies in the intake paperwork.  We then do what's called a Genogram.  This is what I like to call a "fancy family tree", it provides me with a lot of important information about your family (who's who, relationships as well as family dynamics and history.  After we finish the genogram, we then get to dig into what's bringing you in, and what your goals are for our work together.  Because there is a lot to do in the first session, the time is 90 mins or 2 hours.  I do give a 10% discount on the fees for this session. 

The first session is paid by e-transfer 4 days prior to the session, you will receive and automatic email reminder about this appointment.  The following sessions can be paid by debit, credit, e-transfer, cash, or cheque.  

You will bring printed copies of your completed intake paperwork that is sent to you prior to the session.   Also in our office space we ask folks to leave their shoes on the rack in the entry way, so bring slippers if that would make you more comfortable. If you have other comfort items like stuffed toys, fidgets, blankets, etc. those are always welcome.   I do have bottled water available, but you are welcome to bring coffee, tea, or other nonalcoholic beverages (in closed/lidded containers to prevent spilling) as well. 

Once booked intake forms and electronic prepayment form will be sent to the email provided.  You will receive a reminder email and text from the booking platform 4 days prior to the scheduled session reminding you about the session and that the prepayment is due.  Prepayment is required for the first session only, this is to reserve the spot and confirm that you will be attending the session.  If payment is not received and you do not contact the therapist, the session will be cancelled.  Unfortunately this policy had to be adopted to avoid missed appointments that someone else could have used if the therapist had been notified ahead of time. 

 I am a provider for Blue Cross, Sunlife, and several other companies. Insurance coverage is dependent on your policy.  Your policy would have to be one that accepts clinical counsellors, marriage and family therapists, psychotherapists, etc.  It is up to you to contact your company to make sure what is covered. 

You would look at your policy and see what is covered and what providers they will accept.  You can also call or email your insurance provider to find out more.  If your policy says that it only covers Psychologists and Social Workers, services will most likely not be covered.   That being said, clients with a HSA as part of their policy have been able to use this for reimbursement in these cases.      

Sessions are paid by the client at the time of the session. You will be provided with a receipt by the end of the week of your session that you will be able to submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.  I am not able to direct bill for sessions. Payment is required at the time of your session.  For the first session only, payment is required by e-transfer no later than 4 days prior to the appointment to reserve the spot and confirm you plan to attend as scheduled.