FAQ's

Coming to counselling for the first time can be an anxiety-provoking experience - what can I expect?

• What happens during a session?

• What if I don't like the therapist?

• What are my rights?

• What is the therapist's theoretical orientation?

• How long will it all take?

• How much is all this going to cost?

• Will everything I say be confidential?

These are just a few of the usual questions that clients have - and sometimes feel hesitant about asking. Perhaps I can help by answering some of them here.

THEORETICAL ORIENTATION

My theoretical orientation, while generally considered to be eclectic (borrowing from several different theories), leans more towards a "psychodynamic" approach - which means I believe that our early learned behaviours, experiences and feelings from childhood onwards have a critical effect on our lives and relationships in the present time. Some of these continue to work well for us. Others we would do well to discard - especially the ones which seem to get in the way of our ability to have satisfying relationships.

SESSIONS

My sessions are a minimum of one hour long. During the first session, you will have the opportunity to ask about my background and professional competence, and we will have the chance to get to know each other a little. It will also be a time for us to consider whether we think we can work together.

HOW LONG?

How long will therapy take? It depends on many things. In the beginning, I prefer to see clients on a weekly basis for about 4-6 sessions. At the end of that time, the client and I will review how we think therapy is progressing, and where we might go from there. For some clients, a few sessions might be sufficient in assisting you with the problems you came for help with. For others, you might want to consider longer-term therapy.

HOW MUCH?

You have the option at all times to discontinue therapy.

How much will it cost? I abide by the guidelines set by my professional organization. I do provide a reduced rate for students. Some Extended Health Benefit programs include Registered Clinical Counsellors as covered service providers.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellation policy. You will be charged for a missed appointment if you cancel with less than 24 hours notice. Please call ahead if you cannot keep your appointment so that space can be offered to someone else.

HOW CONFIDENTIAL?

How confidential will the session be? Everything discussed within a session is completely confidential except under the following conditions:

1. If a child is or may be at risk of abuse or neglect, or in need of protection

2. If I believe that you or another person is at clear risk of imminent harm

3. For the purpose of complying with a legal order such as a subpoena, or if the disclosure is otherwise required or authorized by law

"Our relationship improved markedly - even though it was difficult for both of us in the beginning. We used the skills we learned in our therapy sessions to address problems before they got really out of hand. And we found it easier to do the more we put it into practice."