FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions people ask most before starting counselling.
Questions about fees, insurance, HST or cancellations are on the Fees page.
Getting started and how I work
Are you accepting new clients?
Yes. I’m accepting new clients for in-person sessions in Stittsville and online sessions anywhere in Ontario. The easiest first step is a free 15-minute call.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. A free 15-minute call is a chance to ask questions, talk about what you’re looking for and see if we’re a good fit. Book a free call or phone 613-577-2275.
How do I get started?
Book a free 15-minute call by sending a message through the contact page, or phone 613-577-2275. I reply within one business day.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book. Some insurance plans ask for a doctor’s referral before they reimburse, so check your plan.
What happens in the first session?
We talk about what brings you in, what you’d like to be different and what has or hasn’t helped so far. I explain confidentiality and how I work, and you can ask any questions. When a child is in counselling, parents usually join for part of the first session. By the end, we’ll have a sense of the goals we’ll work on together.
What is the difference between a psychotherapist, a psychologist and a counsellor?
In Ontario, Registered Psychotherapists (RP) are regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and are trained and authorized to provide psychotherapy. Psychologists are regulated by the College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario; they also provide therapy, and they can diagnose and do formal assessments. “Counsellor” is not a protected title in Ontario, so it’s worth checking that anyone you see is registered with a regulatory college. I’m a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO #006695) and a Certified Canadian Counsellor (CCC).
Who do you work with?
Children from age 4, teens, young adults, adults and families.
How do I know if my child might benefit from counselling?
Some common reasons parents reach out: worries or fears that get in the way of school, sleep or friendships; big emotions or meltdowns that are hard to manage; changes in mood or behaviour that last more than a few weeks; or a big change such as a move, a separation or a loss. You don’t need to be sure counselling is the right fit before you call. The free 15-minute call is a good place to talk it through.
What is emotion-focused family therapy (EFFT)?
Emotion-focused family therapy (EFFT) supports parents and caregivers in helping a child or teen with big emotions, worries, low mood or behaviour challenges. Rather than working only with the child, it gives parents practical ways to respond to emotions, repair after conflict and support change at home. Parents can also come to some sessions on their own.
What are cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)?
Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) looks at how thoughts, feelings and actions affect each other, and builds practical skills for managing worry, low mood and stress. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) uses mindfulness to help you make room for difficult thoughts and feelings so you can focus on what matters to you. I draw on each approach depending on your needs and goals.
Do you offer family sessions?
Yes. Family sessions are 50 minutes and cost $200. I draw on emotion-focused family therapy (EFFT), which supports parents and caregivers in helping their child through big emotions.
How are parents involved when a child is in counselling?
We agree on this together at the start. Parents of younger children are usually more involved, and teens usually have more privacy, with a clear understanding of what is shared and when.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes, with a few exceptions required by law, such as a serious risk of harm or a concern about a child’s safety. I explain these clearly in our first session.
How long is a counselling session?
Individual and family sessions are 50 minutes each.
How often are sessions, and how many will I need?
Many people start with weekly or every-other-week sessions and adjust as we go. The number of sessions varies a lot from person to person, depending on your goals and what you’re working on. We review how things are going together regularly, and you’re always free to pause or stop.
Where is your office?
My counselling room is in my home office in Stittsville. For privacy, I share the exact address once your session is booked.
Which areas do you serve?
My office is in Stittsville, in Ottawa’s west end. In person, I see clients from across Ottawa, especially Stittsville, Kanata, Richmond, Carp, Ashton and Munster. Online sessions are available anywhere in Ontario.
Do you offer online counselling?
Yes. Online sessions are available for clients located anywhere in Ontario.
Is online counselling a good option for children and teens?
Online sessions often work well for teens and many older children, and for parent and family sessions. Younger children usually do better in person, where we can use play and activities. We can decide together on the free call.
Ready to connect?
If you’re considering counselling, a free 15-minute call is the easiest place to start.
Book a free 15-minute callPrefer to talk? Call 613-577-2275
50-minute sessions · $170 individual · $200 family · No HST · Receipts for insurance