Frequently Asked Questions
As a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario, I am bound by the standards of practice of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and committed to protecting your privacy. My procedures align with relevant legislation, including the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA) and the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Document Act (PIPEDA). That said, there are some legal limitations to confidentiality which will be discussed with you in your first session, such as situations involving imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or as required by law.
Yes! I offer in-person psychotherapy for clients in the Hamilton area and virtual psychotherapy for clients across Ontario.
Psychotherapy services are covered under most insurance plans. Please check with your insurance provider for specific details regarding coverage, copayments, and any required documentation. After each session, you will receive an official receipt that contains all the essential details required for insurance reimbursement.
I accept Visa, Mastercard, and email money transfer.
Yes! I offer a free 30-minute consultation. This is an opportunity for us to get acquainted and discuss your needs, explore how I can support you, and determine if we are a good fit to work together. It is important that you feel a genuine connection with the professional you choose, and there is no obligation to schedule any services following the consultation.
No, you do not need a mental health diagnosis to start psychotherapy. Therapy is centred on addressing your presenting concerns, whether they relate to a diagnostic condition or general life challenges.
I kindly request 48 hours of notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. A $50 administration fee will be applied to appointments cancelled within 48 hours or a full session fee will be applied to missed appointments or appointments cancelled within 24 hours.
Yes! I offer both in-person and virtual psychotherapy, providing you with the flexibility to choose the format that best suits your needs. In-person sessions take place in my cozy office space located in downtown Hamilton, Ontario. Virtual sessions take place via a secure video conferencing platform.
Yes, I do offer reduced rate psychotherapy; however, all of my reduced rate spots are currently full. You’re welcome to reach out if you’d like to be added to my waitlist.
Numerous studies have shown that virtual therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy for many individuals, depending on needs and personal preferences. While there are many benefits to virtual therapy, such as convenience and accessibility, it is also important to acknowledge some drawbacks. Some aspects of in-person therapy, such as the subtleties of body language, may be lost using videoconferencing. In addition, technical glitches can occasionally cause interruptions. Should this occur, I will make every effort to address and resolve the issue so that our session can continue smoothly.
I am available for weekday daytime appointments, with some limited evening availability on Mondays. I do not offer weekend appointments.
The duration of therapy varies from person to person and depends on individual needs and goals. There is no commitment, and you can start or stop whenever the time feels right for you. Some individuals benefit from short-term therapy, which could last a few weeks to a few months, while others prefer to engage in longer-term therapy, spanning several months or years. Whenever you are ready to conclude our therapy sessions, we can bring our work to a close.
Yes! I employ evidence-based treatment methods, such as IFS, integrative somatic therapies, EFT, mindfulness-based approaches, and other modalities, which have gained evidence-based status through the extensive research literature supporting their effectiveness for reducing psychological and emotional distress.
In the beginning, increased emotional discomfort can be a normal and expected part of the healing process, as you begin confronting difficult thoughts and emotions that have previously been avoided. However, these discomforts can be an important steppingstone towards eventual improvement. That said, your wellbeing and ability to remain open and receptive with the therapeutic process is paramount, and we will always proceed at a pace that respects your boundaries, where your informed consent and permission are central to every aspect of therapy.
Healing is not a linear process. I invite you to always meet yourself where you are at, knowing that it’s okay to come and go as you are, pause, and take space whenever needed.
In the event of a mental health emergency, please reach out to your local crisis hotline, call 911, or seek immediate care at your nearest emergency room.
- COAST Hamilton 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: (905) 972-8338 or 1 (844) 972-8338
- Talk Suicide Canada 24-Hour Crisis Hotline: 9-8-8
