frequently asked questions.
Why are you different?
Does a man with glasses on the bridge of his nose, holding a note pad, nodding his head, while you lay on a chaise lounge come to mind? Listen, stereotypes exist. But times are changing and therapy doesn’t have to be outdated or stuffy. It also doesn’t have to be mushy gushy feelings every time (it can be, but it’s not a requirement!) I take an evidence-based but casual approach with my clients. I will be real, no pretenses.
What is your approach to therapy?
I have many approaches to the therapeutic process. Which one I use depends on your needs. Most of the time I will weave several approaches together to create the optimal recipe for your success. Here are a few that I am most aligned with: humanist theory, existentialism, narrative therapy, attachment systems, strengths-based, feminist, brief solution focused, grief & loss, cognitive behavioural, mindfulness, ACT, and emotion focused therapy.
How can I assess if we’re a good fit?
Research consistently shows that the biggest predictor of success in therapy is not the clinical approach, it’s not the therapist’s training background or years of experience, and it’s not based on whether the therapist has lived through experiences that relate to what you’re going through. The biggest predictor of success in therapy is finding a good therapeutic fit. Here’s what you can look out for to determine a fit:
You feel understood
You don’t feel judged, ashamed, or embarrassed
The focus is on you and your life
Your therapist offers new ways of thinking
Your therapist works at your pace
What type of people do you work with?
I work with individuals. I don’t generally work with families or couples. But that doesn’t mean I can’t work with familial or partner issues. My sweet spot is individual therapy with adults, young professionals, university students, adolescents, and surprisingly, the elderly (particularly at end of life or during difficult transitions). Regardless of age, socioeconomic status, gender, etc. I work with individuals through changes, life transitions, loss, grief, stress, anxiety, depression, and more.
What is the first session like?
The first session is comprised of 3 things: (1) paper work; (2) discovery (3) goal setting. Initially we’ll get the administration out of the way. This includes things like collecting your contact information, payment details, informed consent, and the like. After this we’ll talk. I will ask you a series of questions to get to know you (in therapy jargon it’s called a ‘biopsychosocial assessment’). Your background and history will give me an idea of how we can best approach your problem. Lastly, we’ll talk about your concern and what you want to get out of therapy. Subsequent sessions are spent working towards your goal(s).
How long should I be in therapy?
We don’t ‘should’ on ourselves around here. People come to therapy for different reasons and with different backgrounds, histories, and challenges. Some people come for a few sessions while some prefer an ongoing relationship with “maintenance” sessions spread out over weeks or months. We can discuss an initial plan for therapy during your consultation or in your first session.
Are your services covered by insurance?
In Ontario, clinical social work services are considered a medical expense but are not covered by OHIP. However, services are tax exempt and can be submitted as part of the Medical Expense Tax Credit with your annual income taxes. Furthermore, most extended health benefit plans cover social work services by an MSW/RSW (master of social work/registered social worker) (that’s me). They may be listed under ‘psychological services’ so be sure to check with your HR department or benefits provider.
What are your policies?
You can find out more about my policies as well as download forms and resources here.