FAQs

 Who is a Registered Psychotherapist?

A registered psychotherapist is a regulated practitioner in psychotherapy in good standing with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). In Ontario, therapists who are registered with the CRPO, use the title or designation of Registered Psychotherapist and have the abbreviation RP after their name.

What to expect when I call or send an email?

Once we receive your request, we will contact you to set up a time and date for a Free 15 minutes phone consultation during which you will have a chance to speak with your treating therapist, and any ask questions you might have about our services. The goal is to make your feel more confident in your decision to come in for your initial sessions.

What I should expect in the first appointment?

The initial appointment involves a detailed intake to understand your background, your strengths, and your presenting problems. Our aim is to get to know each client better as a person, and within their family/relational system. Based on the information you provide and in a collaborative process we will start to formulate a treatment plan that would meet your specific psychological needs. At the end of the consultation, you will have a better idea on what are the imminent issues that needs to be addressed, what type of treatment you would receive (e.g. CBT), and what would be the long-term outcomes for your counselling. Sometimes an individual’s primary concerns or symptoms are not within our area of expertise. If this happens, we will refer you to another professional who can help.

How often should we meet and how long would be the course of my treatment?

Treatment sessions typically take place once per week which could vary depending on client’s condition. Depending on your specific needs and goals, counselling can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to focus on more in-depth personal journey. While most clients start to experience some positive change with (6-8 sessions), generally treatment length could ranges from 12-20 sessions for issues such as moderate anxiety or depression. Counselling is a collaborative process and your progress and goals will be reviewed and discussed during the course of treatment.

Are the services covered by OHIP?

No, the services of psychotherapists are not covered by OHIP. However, many extended health benefit plans offer some yearly coverage for Psychotherapy services. Please check your insurance policy for further details.

Do you prescribe medications?

As a registered psychotherapists, we do not prescribe medications. We are fully respectful of individuals’ decisions to use or not to use medications and we are happy to work collaboratively with family physicians and psychiatrists in this regard.

I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to counselling weak?

Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, we’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.

I want to get the most out of counselling. What can I do to help?

We are so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success.

What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?

The difference is between someone who can do something and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counselling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.