Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about therapy in Ontario
Getting Started
What is the difference between a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and a psychologist or psychiatrist?
In Ontario, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) is regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and is trained to provide individual psychotherapy. A psychologist is regulated by the College of Psychologists of Ontario and can also conduct psychological assessments. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can prescribe medication. RPs focus specifically on talk therapy and do not prescribe medication. All three can provide effective psychotherapy for many mental health concerns.
What can I expect during the initial consultation?
The initial consultation is a brief phone call where you can share what brings you to therapy and what you're hoping to address. I'll answer any questions you have about my approach, experience, and availability. Together we'll determine if working together seems like a good fit. There's no pressure — it's simply a chance to connect before committing to a full session.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is an opportunity to tell your story. We'll discuss what's bringing you to therapy, your background, current challenges, and your goals. I'll explain how I work and answer any questions. By the end, we'll have a preliminary sense of direction for our work together. You are not required to share anything you're not comfortable with — we go at your pace.
Fees & Insurance
Does OHIP cover psychotherapy?
No, OHIP does not cover psychotherapy provided by a Registered Psychotherapist in private practice. However, most employer-sponsored Extended Health Benefit (EHB) plans provide coverage for RP services. Check with your insurer whether your plan covers "Registered Psychotherapist" or "psychotherapy" services, and ask about your annual maximum. I provide official receipts with all information required for your claim.
What are your fees?
Individual therapy (50 min): $170. Couples therapy (80 min): $210. Family therapy (80 min): $210. Mental health services provided by a Registered Psychotherapist are exempt from HST. See the Terms of Service for full fee details.
How Therapy Works
How long will I need to be in therapy?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. Some clients achieve their goals in 8–12 sessions; others benefit from longer-term support over months or years. The duration depends on the complexity of the concerns you bring, your goals, and the pace that feels right for you. We'll regularly review your progress together and adjust the plan as needed.
How often will we meet?
Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which provides momentum and consistency. As you make progress, we may move to biweekly or monthly sessions. Frequency can also be adjusted based on your needs and schedule.
Is what I share in therapy confidential?
Yes — confidentiality is fundamental to therapy. What you share remains private, with limited exceptions required by Ontario law under PHIPA, including imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, suspected child abuse or neglect, or a court order. These exceptions are explained in detail during your first session. Please see the Privacy Policy & PHIPA Notice for full details.
What if therapy isn't working for me?
It's important that you feel the therapy is helpful. If you feel we're not making progress, please tell me — your feedback is essential. We may adjust our approach, explore different techniques, or I may refer you to another provider who may be a better fit. You are always free to end therapy at any time.
Online Therapy
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Research shows that teletherapy is as effective as in-person therapy for most concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, and burnout. The quality of the therapeutic relationship — not the medium — is the primary predictor of outcomes. Some clients actually find it easier to open up from the comfort of their own space.
Where can I be located for online therapy?
You must be physically located in Ontario at the time of each session. This is a regulatory requirement of the CRPO. If you travel outside Ontario, we'll need to pause sessions until you return.
What platform do you use for teletherapy?
I use doxy.me, a secure telehealth platform designed for healthcare. Sessions are encrypted, nothing is recorded, and no session content is stored — consistent with Ontario's PHIPA privacy requirements. There's nothing to install: you'll receive a private room link before your first online session. Learn more on the Teletherapy page.
Can faith and spirituality be part of my therapy?
Yes, if you wish. Alongside my clinical training, I hold a Master of Divinity in Clinical Counselling and serve as an ordained minister, and I am glad to integrate faith and spirituality into our work — from questions of meaning to prayer and scripture — always at your invitation. This is entirely optional: clients of all beliefs and backgrounds are welcome, and your therapy is always guided by your own goals and values.
Still Have Questions?
I'm happy to answer any questions during an initial phone consultation.
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