Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know About Starting Your Therapy Journey
Finding the right therapist is an important part of the healing process, and having questions is completely natural. Below are answers to some of the questions I hear most often. If you'd like to know more, I'd be happy to connect with you during a complimentary consultation.
Insurance, Fees & Logistics
Information about fees, insurance, cancellation, online therapy, confidentiality and other practical ideas
Getting Started
Answers about how to book, what to expect in your first session, and how to know if counselling is right for you.
The Therapy Process
Learn about session length, how therapy works, how long it might take, and what progress can look like.
Fees and Logistics
Do you offer in-person counselling or online sessions?
Yes, I offer secure online counselling for clients across British Columbia, as well as in-person in North Vancouver.
Do you accept extended health benefits?
Yes. I'm a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC). Please check with your benefits provider to make sure they cover clinical counselling or psychotherapy provided by a CCC. I can provide a receipt at the end of our session that you may submit for reimbursement.
How much does counselling cost?
My fee is $165 for a 55 minute session. You can pay online using the Jane app or e-transfer.
Can you provide direct billing?
Yes. I offer direct billing with many extended health insurance providers. This means I can often submit claims on your behalf at the end of our session, reducing or eliminating out-of-pocket costs whenever your plan allows.
What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?
Life happens, and I understand. I kindly request 24 hours notice for appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a fee.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. Finding the right therapist is important, and I want you to feel comfortable and confident in your decision. If offer a 15 minute consultation so you can learn more about me, ask questions, or get a sense of whether we're a good fit,
How do I know if we're a good fit?
A strong, safe therapeutic relationship is one of the most important factors in successful therapy.
That's why I offer a complimentary 15-minute consultation. This gives us a chance to connect briefly, discuss what's bringing you to therapy, and allow you to get a sense of my approach, tone, and presence. If it feels like a good fit, we can move forward together.
Getting Started
I've never been to therapy before. What happens during the first session?
There's no pressure to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say. Our first session is focused on getting to know one another. We'll discuss what's bringing you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin understanding what support would feel most helpful for you. You only ever share what feels comfortable and manageable. We move entirely at your pace.
Do I need a doctor's referral to book a session?
No. You do not need a referral from a family physician or general practitioner to work with me.
You can reach out directly to book a consultation or therapy appointment and discuss what you hope to experience, change, or work through.
The Therapy Process
What will we actually do in therapy?
Therapy with me is collaborative, personalized, and tailored to your unique needs rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.
I integrate evidence-based approaches that support both the mind and nervous system, including:
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)
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AEDP & The Change Triangle
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As well as somatic and mindfulness tools
Together, we'll identify patterns, build emotional awareness, strengthen coping strategies, process difficult experiences, and move toward meaningful change.
How long will I need to be in counselling?
Healing is unique to every individual, so there is no set timeline. Some clients experience significant relief and clarity within a few months, particularly when focusing on a specific concern. Others choose to stay in therapy longer to explore deeper, lifelong patterns. We'll regularly check in and make sure our work together continues to align with your goals.
Is what I share confidential?
Yes. What you share during our sessions is private and protected. I follow strict professional, ethical, and legal standards of confidentiality. Online sessions are conducted through a secure FIPA/PIPEDA-compliant platform.
There are a few legal exceptions to confidentiality including:
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Risk of serious and imminent harm to yourself
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Risk of serious and imminent harm to others
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Suspected abuse or neglect of a child
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Court-ordered disclosure where legally required
Are you a psychologist? Can you prescribe medication?
I am a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) registered with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). I am not a psychologist, psychiatrist, or medical physician. As a counsellor, I do not diagnose mental health conditions or prescribe medication. If medication support is something you'd like to explore, I'm happy to collaborate with your family physician, psychiatrist, or other healthcare providers as part of your care team.
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What if I'm in crisis or need urgent support between sessions?
My practice is not an emergency or crisis service, and I am unable to provide urgent same-day support. If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, please access immediate support:
Call or Text 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline (Canada) Available 24/7
Crisis Centre BC 1-800-784-2433
Emergency Services Call 911
When appropriate, we can work together to create a support plan for the time between sessions.