Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Psychotherapy, often referred to as 'talk therapy', is a way to explore difficult feelings, thoughts and behaviours. It offers support in managing everyday stressors, addressing the impact of trauma, loss, and in treating various mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. The primary objective is to enhance overall health and well-being, enabling people to function more effectively in their daily lives. Common terms for psychotherapy include 'therapy' and 'counselling.' Psychotherapy is generally a longer-term approach, focusing on exploring your past and the here and now to gain insight and learn more about yourself, and to learn new ways of coping."

I'm a Registered Nurse (RN) with the College of Nurses of Ontario and a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. I completed a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University in 2022, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from York University in 2012.  I'm a Certified Perinatal Mental Health Professional with Postpartum Support International and a Certified Menopause Mental Health Provider with BRIA. Additionally, I have specialized training in: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy, Compassion-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Parent-Child Attachment & Relationships, Trauma-informed care, Infant & Early Mental Health and Walk and Talk Ecotherapy.

Private psychotherapy is not covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), but is covered under many extended health benefit plans. Contact your insurance company or employer to inquire about your specific plan and ask if they cover "Registered Psychotherapists" (RPs) licensed with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)". 

If you have a Health Spending Account as part of your benefits, you may be able to claim through there. Once you have paid for your session, I will provide you with a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company or claim as a medical expense on your income tax return.

Meeting online allows us to connect face-to-face by video, from the comfort of wherever you are. 30 mins before your scheduled appt. you will receive a link to join the secure, online video platform called Jane App. The Jane App platform is PHIPA and PIPEDA compliant. You can test your device ahead of time to make sure the audio and video settings are working. Confidentiality and privacy cannot be guaranteed when meeting online. I have control of my office space and you will be responsible for your space, wherever you are. Many clients find it helpful to wear earphones or headphones during online sessions for clearer audio and increased privacy. Ensuring a private space for us to talk is important. Occasionally, technology may experience glitches or fail completely, often due to factors like severe weather or a poor internet connection. In such cases, I have a backup virtual platform available and can also arrange to call you instead."

The first session is for us to get to know each other. I will review the intake questionnaire, consent form and your contact information that you provided ahead of time. Together we will explore more about your current issues that brought you into  therapy, how they impact your life, hopes and expectations for working together. During the first few sessions we'll talk about your goals and explore strategies to get there. I will listen openly and without judgement. Sometimes I will pause, or circle back to something important you said. The more open and honest you are, the better I can understand your needs and offer support. At any time if you feel you are not ready to share something, just let me know. Questions I ask are to learn more and guide the approaches and tools I use during our journey together. You are the lead role in your life story and I will act as your guide, soundboard and support.

Yes, I am authorized to provide psychotherapy services to people living in Ontario.

No, self-referrals are welcome and encouraged!