FAQ
Questions about therapy — answered.
It's completely normal to have questions before starting therapy. Here are answers to the ones I hear most often.
Getting started
Therapy can be helpful for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, work through challenges, or make meaningful changes in their life. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit. If you're curious, that's enough of a reason to reach out.
The first session is primarily about getting to know each other. I'll ask about what brings you to therapy, your history, and what you're hoping to get out of our work together. It's also a chance for you to ask questions and get a sense of whether we're a good fit.
Yes — I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation before we begin. This gives us a chance to connect briefly, answer any questions you have, and see if working together feels right.
It depends on your goals and what you're working through. Some people find significant benefit in a handful of sessions; others prefer longer-term support. We'll check in regularly and adjust as needed — you're always in control of the pace.
The therapy process
Sessions are 60 minutes. We'll usually begin by taking a moment to shift into our session then noticing how you've been, we explore what feels most relevant — whether that's something that happened recently or noticing longer-term themes. I'll offer the opportunity to experience events deeply, and suggest reflections, tools, and perspectives along the way.
I draw primarily on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Techniques (EFT), and Solution Focused Techniques as well as attachment-based and trauma-informed approaches. I tailor my approach to each person rather than applying a single method rigidly.
Not necessarily. While understanding your history can be helpful, therapy doesn't have to focus on the past. We'll work on what feels most relevant and useful to you — whether that's present-day challenges, future goals, or both.
Confidentiality & ethics
Yes. Everything you share is strictly confidential. There are a small number of legal exceptions — for example, if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, or if records are subpoenaed by a court. I'll explain these limits clearly at the start of our work together.
Yes. I am a Registered Psychologist (R.Psych.) with the College of Health and Care Professional of British Columbia. This means I am bound by a professional code of ethics and subject to regulatory oversight — your protection is built into my practice.
You are always free to end therapy at any time, for any reason. I ask only that we have a closing session if possible, so we can reflect on your progress and ensure you feel supported in the transition.
Fees & insurance
Individual sessions are $230 (60 min). Couples (S230) and family sessions are $250 (60 min). A free 15-minute phone consultation is available before we begin. Please reach out if cost is a barrier — I'm happy to discuss options.
Many extended health benefit plans cover services provided by a Registered Psychologist. Coverage varies by plan, so I recommend checking with your insurer before we begin. I provide receipts for all sessions that you can submit for reimbursement. Some plans I invoice directly are: - Pacific Blue Cross - Manulife Financial - SunLife - Medavie Blue Cross - GreenShield - Canada Life - Desjardins Insurance - GroupHEALTH - GroupSource - Industrial Alliance - Johnston Group Inc. - TELUS AdjudiCare - AGA Financial Group Inc. - belairdirect (formerly Johnson Inc.) - Beneva Inc. - BPA - Benefit Plan Administrators - Canada Life - PSHCP - Canadian Construction Workers Union - Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance - CINUP - ClaimSecure - Coughlin & Associates Ltd. - Cowan - Equitable - First Canadian - GMS Carrier 49 - GMS Carrier 50 - GPM Group Benefits - LiUNA Local 183 - LiUNA Local 506 - Manion - Maximum Benefit - MDM Insurance Services Inc. - People Corporation - Quikcard - WAM Insurance Administrators - Simply Benefits - Union Benefits - UV Insurance
I have a limited number of sliding scale spots available for clients who face financial hardship. Please reach out to discuss this — I want to make therapy as accessible as possible.
Still have questions?
I'm happy to answer anything before you decide to book. Reach out anytime.