Question 1

When is it time to see a therapist?

Accepted Answer

Children, adolescents, young adults and their families come for therapy for many different reasons. Often, they feel overwhelmed with challenging feelings such as worry, sadnes and/or anger and have been coping in ways that are no longer working or helpful. Other reasons for seeking therapy include struggles with close relationships or at school. When you feel 'stuck' and are seeking new perspective, it can be helpful to speak with a therapist.

Question 2

What happens during the first session and beyond?

Accepted Answer

During the first session, you will be asked a lot of questions so that your therapist can get to know more about you and the struggles that brought you to therapy. You will be asked about your emotions, behaviours and the most important relationships in your life. By the end of the first or second session, you will have some clear ideas about what you'd like to address in therapy and a plan for how to start. Occasionally, more comprehensive assessment will be recommended to determine the best supports for your needs.
 
Therapy involves talking together with your therapist about the aspects of your life that are concerning to you.  Your therapist's job is to listen to your concerns and to illuminate how your thoughts, feelings and behaviours impact your daily life in helpful or unhelpful ways. In time, you will gain new perspective and learn problem solving and communication skills. While your therapist may offer some suggestions, you choose what to apply outside of therapy. Therapy is a collaborative process that involves lots of experimenting in the real world. 
 
If you are a parent, and your child is under the age of 12, it is recommended that you attend the first appointment on your own. This allows for you to freely express your concerns and to explore treatment options. Your child will be asked to attend the second session.

Question 3

Online or in person therapy?

Accepted Answer

Currently, all services provided are offered by Teletherapy during the Covid-19 pandemic. All sessions are conducted using a secure video-conferencing platform. Alternatively, therapy can be provided over the phone. If you would prefer to meet with a therapist in person, options for accessing alternative supports will be discussed.

Question 4

Parent Involvement

Accepted Answer

Parents and caregivers are an integral part of the therapeutic process for children, adolescents and young adults. While the young person seeking support is considered the "lead" decision maker in therapy, it is helpful when caregivers learn along side their child. Caregivers are involved in therapy in a number of different ways: At times, they are asked to join their child's sessions, at other times they will attend separately outside of their child's scheduled therapy time. Through involvement in therapy, caregivers gain insight into their child's emotions, learn to attune to their child's needs and develop the confidence to respond in helpful ways.

Question 5

Fees

Accepted Answer

Fees are set in accordance with guidelines proposed by the Ontario Psychological Association. Most extended health benefits offer coverage for psychological services. Payment for service is due at the end of each session and you will be provided with a receipt that you can submit for reimbursement to your insurance company. At this time, E-transfer, cheque or cash are accepted for appointment payments.

Question 6

Confidentiality

Accepted Answer

Your privacy is extremely important and the information you share in therapy is confidential. This means that your therapist will not disclose information without your explicit written consent. There are a few exceptions to confidentiality primarily related to safety. These will be discussed with you in detail at your first session.

Question 7

Late and Cancellation Policy

Accepted Answer

Please make efforts to arrive on time, as your appointment time has been set aside specifically for you or your child. Please provide as much notice as possible if you are unable to make it to your appointment. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice or missed appointments will be subject to the full session fee.

Frequently Asked Questions