Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find the answer to your question here, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Contact me via the appointment form to let us know that you are interested in counselling. I will get back to you via email to discuss what you’re looking for and, if you’d like, we can book a 15 minute free consultation to ensure there’s a good fit.
Is everything confidential?
Yes. I am professionally bound to maintain your confidentiality. I won’t disclose anything you tell me to anyone else, and I’ll store your notes in a highly-secure practice management platform. There are a few specific situations when I might need to break confidentiality, in particular if I believe you are in danger to yourself or someone else. We will discuss confidentiality in more detail during your first appointment.
What services do you offer?
I offer ongoing counselling and one-off sessions. Counselling can be remote (through Zoom) or in-person at Transense Healing Arts Centre, at Bloor and Spadina.
What are the fees for your services?
The fee per session is 160 dollars. Initial 15 minute consultations are free of charge.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, I am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Additionally, I have professional insurance.
Do you work with couples?
Yes, I can work with couples struggling with a range of concerns. I work with LGBTIQ+ couples and couples of diverse cultural backgrounds. You can discuss your relationship needs during an initial consultation. Both members of the couple will need to be on-board with receiving counselling support.
Do you work with families?
I do not currently work with families. However, with younger clients in particular (ages 20 and under), I might suggest bringing in a family member for a session or two, but it is up to the client.
Do you work with children?
Currently I work with individuals ages 16 and up.
Do you provide in-person counselling?
Yes! I am now offering in-person counselling at Transense Healing Arts Holistic Centre in downtown Toronto (Bloor and Spadina).
Do you provide phone counselling?
Yes, I am happy to provide counselling by phone as opposed to Zoom if that’s what you prefer.
How do I pay?
Payment is by etransfer following each session. I request that clients pay within 48 hours of their session. In some cases, insurance companies can be billed directly following sessions (this depends on what insurance company a client is with).
What if I don’t know what to say?
That’s totally normal. It can take time to open up to a counsellor, and the act of sharing personal information can feel new or uncomfortable. I will work with you to focus on what’s important for you, and will ask questions to prompt you. I have a lot of experience working with people who are new to the counselling process, and will certainly not be judging you.
What if I start counselling and I don’t find it helpful?
There is no expectation to continue with counselling if it doesn’t feel right for you. That said, sometimes counselling can feel challenging or bring up tough emotions, which is a normal part of the process. If these things are happening, try to raise it with me if possible. If after all you’d like to discontinue counselling, that’s fine. I can also support you to find someone else who is a better fit.
Can I pay through my insurance?
Many insurance companies will cover counselling with a Registered Social Worker (RSW). Please look at your insurance policy to see if this applies to you. If so, you can submit receipts to your insurance company post-payment and receive reimbursement.
If you have insurance through Green Shield I am able to bill directly on your behalf. I am also registered as a WSIB mental health provider.
What if I can’t make my scheduled appointment?
As soon as you know you won’t be able to make your appointment, please notify me via email to let me know. I require 24 hours’ notice to cancel/reschedule an appointment. This is so I have time to offer your spot to someone else who is waiting for support. If you are suddenly unwell, please get in touch with me as soon as you know you cannot make the appointment — your health is the priority here!
I want to get counselling but I can’t afford your fees. What can I do?
We can talk about having less-frequent sessions (e.g. every two weeks, every month). Additionally, you can explore lower-cost counselling options available through the Affordable Therapy Network. Unfortunately I don’t currently offer sliding-scale fees.
Here With You doesn’t provide mental health crisis support.
If you are in crisis and require immediate assistance, please call 911 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department. You can also call the Gerstein Centre Crisis Line at +1 416 929 5200.