FAQs
How do we get started? What is the intake process?
Step 1: Get in touch via my contact page, and I’ll send you available times for a telephone consultation.
Step 2: We’ll start with a phone consultation. You’ll have an opportunity to ask any questions you might have, and to get a sense of whether you’d like to work together.
Step 3: If you decide that you’re ready to begin the therapy process, we’ll book an appointment for your next session.
How do I know that we’ll be a good fit? How do I choose the right therapist for me?
Fit is really important! Look for a therapist who gives you “good vibes,” but also someone who can gently challenge you to consider new perspectives. A graduate degree from an accredited university, in social work, psychology or other counselling professions, will indicate that the therapist has a solid theoretical background on which to base your work together. Know that I won’t be offended if you don’t feel we’re a good fit – that’s ok, and I am happy to help you find a therapist who is best for you. By the end of our first session, you’ll have a sense of whether I’m the right choice for the work you want to do.
Do you serve clients in person or online? What are the benefits of that?
I see clients in person at Reclaim and Rise Counselling, with beautiful offices in downtown Stratford. I often like to work with visual elements such as a whiteboard, posters, or photographs, and this work is much easier in person - and I think the in-person experience provides me a better “read” of clients’ body language. Some clients enjoy the convenience of online appointments and I also offer a secure online option. Some folks use a blend of the two; if your work takes you to other locales frequently, for example, the online option allows you consistent access to therapy.
Do you have evening hours?
Evening appointments are available.
How long do sessions last?
Typical sessions are 50-60 minutes in length; occasionally we will take a few extra minutes when needed.
How long should I expect to be in therapy?
My goal is to work myself out of your life! There is no set number of sessions, as each person comes to therapy with a unique set of issues, a unique personality, and a unique group of resources (ie. friends, life activities, etc.). I evaluate our progress towards your goals at every session; together we will decide when that has been accomplished.
I think my family member needs therapy but they aren’t interested. What do I do?
That’s a tough one. We can’t force our loved ones to get help even when it’s so difficult to watch them suffer. It may seem contradictory for you to come to therapy when it’s your family member who “should” be going, but sometimes the changes we make in ourselves serve two purposes; they make us feel better, and they serve to model positive change to our family members too. I have extensive experience in supporting family members of people struggling with mental health concerns; I’d be happy to help you take care of yourself while you’re taking care of others.
What are your payment options?
Fees are paid on the day of the session by etransfer or credit card.
Is my therapy confidential?
Confidentiality is of the utmost importance in therapy; I take extreme care in safeguarding your privacy. There are some instances when confidentiality must be set aside; these are very specific and serious conditions including a person being an imminent danger to themselves or to other people, instances of child or elder abuse, or orders made by a court of law. In the absence of these conditions, no information about you (including your involvement in counselling and/or your attendance at sessions) can be released to anyone without your consent.
I’m scared. What if I don’t know what to say?
You’re not alone in feeling scared! It can be hard to reach out and to ask for help. I can’t take that feeling away, but I can tell you this: I’m here to walk alongside you, to offer support and encouragement, and to help you untangle your thoughts, feelings and options. The greatest assessment of my work that I ever received was from a client who called me her “Clarity Angel,” – that’s a calling and a privilege that I treasure. Come meet with me, and let’s work together to figure things out.