How do I get referred?

Referrals from any health-care provider are accepted.  In addition, I accept self-referrals.  You can contact me by phone or e-mail to arrange an initial meeting.

Are your fees covered by health insurance?

Psychotherapy provided by a psychologist or psychological associate is not covered by OHIP.  However, the majority of insurance companies (e.g. Sun Life, Co-operators, Manulife) will provide financial support for therapy received from a registered practitioner.  You may wish to check with your Extra Health Benefits package to determine your coverage privileges.

What type of therapy do you provide?

I implement a Cognitive-Behavioural therapy approach.  While it is important to gather information regarding a person's past, I am oriented to providing therapy based in the "here and now".  While a person cannot change the past, it is possible to learn a series of skills that will allow for a better quality of life today and in the future.

What can I expect from my first session?

The first session provides you an opportunity to ask questions and to get to know me a bit.  I carry out a clinical interview.  What you choose to disclose about yourself is entirely up to you.  In the first session I also ask what you would like to get out of therapy.    I believe that the first session allows for the beginning of a therapeutic alliance to form.  I believe that two keys in the therapeutic process are the sense that "I will be listened to" and that "I can work with this person".  If those feelings are absent it may mean that the "fit" is not a good one.  Compatibility - as in any meaningful relationship (including psychotherapy) - is crucial.

How long will therapy take?

Ultimately, this is a choice that you will make.  Each individual has different  needs.  While many of the clients I have worked with in the past have reported marked improvements within 12-15 sessions, the treatment process is highly variable and dependent on the client's presenting issue(s).

How will I know if therapy is working?

Therapy is working when you are able to use the skills learned in your sessions to deal more effectively with a problem situation.  Therapy exists to increase your feelings of wellness.  It is to be expected that an individual may "feel worse" as they describe painful life events from the past and present, but my role as a therapist is to provide support through listening and the teaching of a variety of coping skills.

When will I know it's time to end therapy?

Or what if I want to terminate therapy?

Therapy is an ongoing process and very individual.  As your prospective therapist, I believe that we form a team.  As you work on your issue(s) and gain coping skills we will review what you're getting out of therapy.  When you indicate that you're feeling better we can assess whether further therapy may be of benefit to you. Be assured that ending therapy is entirely your choice.  I often suggest one final session (an "exit session") to provide an opportunity for both of us to "tie up loose ends" in a respectful manner. 

After you have terminated therapy you are welcome to request a follow-up session or to re-enter therapy.