Frequently Asked Questions 

 

How much does therapy cost?

I charge $145 per session.

How do I pay you?

I accept credit card or e-transfer.

Do you do direct billing to insurance?

I do not direct bill to insurance companies. You will pay at the end of each session and I will provide a receipt you can use to make a benefits claim with your provider.

Where are you located?

I am located in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. I see individuals virtually across Ontario and in person at 57-B John Street South, Hamilton, ON.

Who do you see?

I work with adults, teens, and pre-teens on an individual basis (with time dedicated to parent work when indicated).

For toddlers and young children, I work primarily with parents. I do not see couples. Please see my Services page for more information on the types of issues I specialize in.

What does therapy actually look like? 

Phase 1 – Get to Know Each Other + Assessment 

In this phase, my role is 1) to get to know you and help you feel comfortable, validated, seen, and heard, and 2) to assess your history, your needs, and develop a tentative plan for our work together. 

Your role here is to simply be open and honest, to assess if you feel like we are a good fit for each other, and to pin down your focus/goals for therapy.

Phase 2 – The Work 

In this phase, we begin to actively work on the symptoms, patterns, and challenges that brought you into therapy. This is when we may mindfully push you into a zone of discomfort. As my favourite fitness instructor says, “If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you!”

This phase will look different for everyone depending on what we decide to work on together. This may include body based skills and knowledge, new insights into your experiences and behaviours, and will likely include “homework” for you to practice out in the world. 

Phase 3 – Maintenance 

Once you feel you have seen the changes you were looking for, we may see each other less frequently or you may choose to take a break from therapy. During this time, we focus on keeping up the gains you have seen during our time together.

Alternatively, you may choose to focus on an area we have not tackled yet. If so, we cycle back into “the work” for another round. 

How often can I see you?

As frequently as once a week and as infrequently as once a month. During the initial phase, it is recommended you attend weekly or bi-weekly.

How long does therapy take? 

Each therapy session is up to 50 minutes and usually begins on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. Whether you decide to commit for a number of weeks, a number of months, or a number of years depends on your personal needs and goals. 

What are your credentials? 

I have a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Toronto and am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). This means that I am licensed to practice psychotherapy under the Psychotherapy Act of Ontario. 

As a member of OCSWSSW, I am mandated to continually engage in professional development, peer consultation, and supervision by a senior mental health professional. 

What types of therapy do you use?

My work is informed by attachment theory, polyvagal theory (nervous system regulation), and emotion focused therapy

I am trained and educated in a number of types of therapy: 

  • Attachment Focused Therapy (DDP) - Level 1 & 2

  • Interpersonal Neurobiology 

  • Family Systems Therapy 

  • Emotion Focused Therapy 

  • Emotion Focused Family Therapy 

  • Polyvagal Theory 

  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) 

  • Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)