Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect in a therapy session?
Think of a session as a confidential conversation entirely centred on whatever you bring that day. Using what is top of mind for you, I will explore more deeply what’s on your mind, what’s happening in your life, and what you’d like to understand or change. I’ll ask questions with curiosity and compassion, and together we’ll make sense of what’s been getting in your way.
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You can begin therapy for all sorts of reasons: a change in your usual state of mind that feels persistent, a life transition, relationship issues, or simply a desire to better understand yourself. You don’t need a diagnosis or be in crisis to decide to speak with me, and there is no obligation to continue past the first session if you decide it is not a fit for you.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
That’s up to you. Do you benefit from your sessions with me? Have you achieved your goals for therapy? Does your schedule continue to have room for meeting with me? These questions are always up to you to answer. We’ll check in regularly to make sure our time together continues to feel useful to you.
What kinds of issues do you work with?
I work with individuals and couples, on a range of personal and relational challenges including those arising in estate planning and succession. You may start with a clear objective, like reducing stress or improving communication, and find that our conversations raise broader issues you’d like to explore.
How are sessions held?
All sessions are offered as secure online therapy via Zoom. Clients appreciate the flexibility of meeting from home or another private space. I work with clients internationally, with the majority of my clients living in either Canada or Australia.
Do you offer evening or daytime appointments?
Yes. Because I live in Melbourne and work with clients across both countries, I offer evening sessions for Canadians and daytime sessions for Australians. We’ll find a schedule that works comfortably for both of us.
What are your fees and are they covered by my insurance plan?
Each session is 60 minutes: $160 CAD / $180 AUD. Payment is by e-transfer, and receipts are provided.
In Canada, many extended health insurance plans reimburse fees paid to psychotherapists who are regulated by a government body such as the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, of which I am an RP (Independent Practitioner status).
In Australia, the professions of counselling and psychotherapy are not yet regulated by lesgislation or a regulatory body.
In both countries, if you plan to submit receipts for my fees for reimbursement, it is important to check in advance with your benefits provider as to whether this is available to you for all or a portion of my fee.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. As a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), my work is governed by strict ethical and professional standards about confidentiality.
What you share remains confidential, except in those rare circumstances where disclosure is required by law (for example, if there is an imminent risk of harm to you or others).
Can I ask you some questions before booking a first session?
Of course. You can contact me
[here] to ask any questions on your mind and I will reply promptly.
