What To Expect
1
Initial Contact
We’ll start with an introductory phone call to discuss your therapy goals and answer any questions you may have about my approach or about therapy in general. We’ll schedule your first appointment and, with your consent, I’ll send you some information sheets and questionnaires that you can review before the appointment. There is no charge for this initial phone call.
Taking the first step to ask for help is often difficult. Getting started quickly can go a long way to ease this discomfort. With this in mind, I aim to have our introductory phone conversation within 24 hours and your first appointment within two weeks of your initial contact.
Contact me here to schedule your initial consultation.
2
Therapy Appointments
Appointments are 50 minutes in duration and can be held in person or online. Many patients find it helpful to schedule appointments weekly at first, and decrease the frequency as progress is made.
A psychological assessment is typically conducted in the first few sessions to support treatment planning. The process involves a clinical interview to understand more thoroughly the problems you may be experiencing, as well as your strengths and resources that will help you achieve your therapy goals.
The assessment may incorporate the use of psychological testing questionnaires. Much like the way physicians use blood tests or imaging, psychologists use tests to confirm the clinical impression and/or obtain information that may otherwise require many therapy sessions to uncover.
3
Therapy Process
The information from the assessment is pulled together to capture your unique story and your unique needs. We'll use this information to develop your therapy plan.
My treatment approach draws largely from cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), and also integrates modalities such as mindfulness and self-compassion techniques, emotionally focused therapy, insight-oriented therapy and EMDR.
Regardless of the presenting issues or techniques employed, it is important for the therapy relationship to feel safe and respectful. To that end, I have a flexible and collaborative approach and welcome your questions about all aspects of your care.
FAQ
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A psychologist is someone with specialized training in the study of mental processes and behaviour. Psychologists study the human mind, how people think, feel, behave, and interact with others.
The services provided by psychologists are wide-ranging. Psychologists are primarily known for the assessment and treatment of mental disorders. However, psychologists also apply their expertise to help people cope with everyday problems such as managing life transitions, academic struggles, difficulties at work or with career selection, relationship challenges, and managing work-life balance.
Psychologists work in diverse settings such as hospitals, private practice offices, schools, sports teams, government, businesses, the military, and prisons.
To practice the profession of psychology in Ontario, an individual must be registered with the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario. All members of the College must follow the laws governing health professionals in Ontario, and are required to continually update their knowledge, skills, and competency.
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There are many types of practitioners who work in the mental health field. Each have their own academic training programs, duration of study, foci, and scope of practice.
For more information about this topic, please see the chart linked here.
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Fees for psychological services are usually covered by extended health insurance plans. Please check with your specific insurance provider for details about your coverage.
Fees not covered by extended health insurance plans may be eligible as a health expense for income tax purposes. Please check with your accountant for information about this.
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Referrals from healthcare professionals are accepted but not required.
Appointments may be in-person or virtual.
Appointments are typically scheduled within two weeks of initial contact.
Contact me here to schedule your appointment.