FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
IS MY INFORMATION KEPT PRIVATE?
The information you talk about with your counsellor is kept confidential, however, some information can be shared with others without your written consent in situations required by professional ethics or law, including if:
you are in imminent danger or have significant intent of harming yourself or someone else (e.g. high risk suicide ideation, substance/alcohol use while driving, unsafe practices while HIV+).
A minor (age 0-18) or a dependent adult (someone over 18 years of age and in the care of others) is being abused, neglected, or is a witness of abuse (e.g. domestic violence, significant substance/alcohol use in the presence of children).
You are accessing Worker’s Compensation or a workplace psychological injury has occurred (e.g. an incident or ongoing circumstances at work have led you to miss plenty of work, you have a current WCB claim).
Your file and/or your therapist has been subpoenaed by the court (e.g. related to a motor vehicle accident, insurance claim, or divorce).
You are a minor; your guardian has the right to impose limits to your confidentiality
You report sexual abuse or misconduct related to a health professional (e.g. a previous psychologist, physician).
The College of Alberta Psychologists (CAP) can access your file without your consent for auditing purposes, for example, investigating your counsellor for billing discrepancies.
Client confidentiality is of the utmost importance and is maintained whenever and wherever possible. Your counsellor, however, may seek clinical guidance from colleagues in their profession in order to provide you the best possible service (no identifying information is disclosed). There is a separate consent form if you would like your counsellor to provide information to another individual (like your doctor).
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF COUNSELLING?
Some of the benefits of counselling may include:
Greater clarity
Increased self-awareness
Decrease in symptoms
Improved relationships
More self-worth and compassion
Strategies to manage presenting problems like stress, anxiety, and depression
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF COUNSELLING?
Whenever we decide to make changes in our lives, there is the possibility of things getting better, but it can also be common for things to get worse. Counselling can cause discomfort, as we are often exploring difficult subject areas, but this is the place where there is opportunity for growth and healing to happen. As Leonard Cohen said, “There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in.” Because the healing process can be difficult at times, it is helpful to have a counsellor to be there as a support.
When can I come for an appointment?
I offer daytime appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. I'm accepting new clients and do not currently have a wait list. You can call, text, or email me to book an appointment.
HOW MUCH DO THE SESSIONS COST?
I offer a free 15 minute phone consultation.
Sessions cost $230 for a 60 minute hour. The current recommended rate set out by the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) is $220 for a 50 minute hour. Please see the PAA website for more information about recommended fees for psychologists in Alberta. Please contact me for more information.
Payment can be made through credit or e-transfer and is due on the session date.
If you have insurance coverage, you may be able to claim the receipt, but contact your insurance provider for more information on the type of coverage you have. Fees paid out of pocket may be eligible for a tax deduction, but please contact an accountant for more information.
Will my insurance cover the sessions?
Most insurance policies cover a registered psychologist if the policy includes counselling under the extended health coverage plan. It is important to contact your insurance policy if you're not sure:
how much coverage you have
what type of professional is covered (i.e. registered psychologist)
what portion of the fee you may be responsible for
If you do not have insurance coverage, services may be tax deductible.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Sessions are 60 minutes long so please ensure that you are on time for appointments, as you are billed for the full hour. I ask that you understand that you need to give 24 hours notice before cancelling an appointment, otherwise, you will be invoiced for the session.
WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES AS A CLIENT?
This is your process and, as a result, you decide what information to share in session. Come prepared to do the work, which is often challenging but can be rewarding at the same time. That said, humans are hardwired for connection and I’m here to journey with you so you don’t have to go at it alone. I’m here to provide support and offer inquiry and ideas to help you align with a life that fits for you.
WHAT IF I HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Please feel free to contact me if you have further questions.