Common Questions

Therapy offers a safe space to explore what’s holding you back and to develop practical tools for change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, or stress, therapy can help you feel more grounded, empowered, and in control. 

Some of the benefits include: 

• Better understanding of yourself and your values 

• Improved relationships and communication skills 

• Relief from emotional distress like anxiety, anger, or sadness 

• Healthier ways to manage stress and cope with challenges 

• Boosted self-esteem and confidence 

• Support in making meaningful life changes 

• Therapy isn’t just about managing problems—it’s about growth, insight, and building a life that feels more aligned with who you are. 

It’s normal to wonder if therapy is necessary—especially if you’re used to handling things on your own. But seeking support doesn’t mean you’re not strong—it means you’re self-aware and ready to take steps toward positive change. 

Therapy can help you gain new tools, break old patterns, and better manage life’s challenges. It’s an investment in yourself—one that can lead to deeper insight, lasting growth, and a stronger sense of control in your life. 

People have many different motivations for coming to psychotherapy.   Some may be going through a major life transition (unemployment, divorce, new job, etc.), or are not handling stressful circumstances well.  Some people need assistance managing a range of other issues such as low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, addictions, relationship problems, spiritual conflicts and creative blocks.  Therapy can help provide some much needed encouragement and help with skills to get them through these periods.  Others may be at a point where they are ready to learn more about themselves or want to be more effective with their goals in life.   In short, people seeking psychotherapy are ready to meet the challenges in their lives and ready to make changes in their lives. 

Therapy is a personalized experience—your sessions will be shaped by your unique needs, goals, and circumstances. Typically, we’ll explore current life challenges, past experiences that may be influencing you, and any progress or insights since your last session. 

Therapy can be short-term for specific concerns or longer-term for deeper personal growth. Most clients attend weekly or bi-weekly sessions for consistent support. 

You’ll get the most out of therapy by actively participating. You may be encouraged to reflect, journal, or take small actions between sessions to help integrate what you’re learning. Therapy is for people ready to make meaningful changes and approach life with curiosity, courage, and self-awareness. 

While medication can help manage symptoms, lasting emotional and mental wellness often requires more than just a prescription. Psychotherapy helps uncover and address the root causes of distress and the patterns that keep us stuck, leading to deeper healing and personal growth. 

Many people find the most effective approach is a combination of therapy and medication. Collaborating with your medical doctor and your therapist, we can explore what path best supports your long-term well-being. The goal is sustainable change—not just symptom relief. 

While I do not bill insurance directly, many clients are able to get reimbursed through their extended health benefits. To find out if you're covered, contact your insurance provider and ask: 

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• What are my mental health benefits? 

• How much is covered per session? 

• How many sessions are included each year? 

• Do you cover services by a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW)? 

• Do I need a referral from my doctor? 

You’ll receive a receipt after each session, which you can submit for reimbursement.

Yes—confidentiality is a cornerstone of the therapeutic relationship. Effective therapy depends on trust, and that means knowing your private information stays private. Everything you share in session is treated with the utmost respect and discretion. 

You'll be provided with a written informed consent agreement that outlines how your information is protected. If you'd like me to share information with someone on your healthcare team—such as your doctor, naturopath, or lawyer—that can only happen with your written permission. 

Exceptions to Confidentiality 
As a Registered Social Worker in Ontario, I am legally and ethically required to break confidentiality under specific circumstances, including:

• Suspected abuse or neglect of a child or dependent adult, which must be reported to the appropriate authorities (e.g., Child Protection Services). 

• Risk of serious harm to yourself or others. If there is reason to believe someone is in imminent danger, I am required to act to protect your safety or the safety of others. 

These exceptions exist to ensure your well-being and the safety of those around you.