Question 1

When should I consider starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

Therapy can be beneficial for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties, mental health challenges, or seeking personal growth. It's a good idea to consider therapy if you're feeling overwhelmed, experiencing persistent negative emotions, or facing challenging life circumstances. This is a space just for you!

Question 2

How long is a session?

Accepted Answer

A clinical hour is 50 minutes long. Some of our practitioners provide longer sessions (80 minutes) at an adjusted rate.

Question 3

How much does therapy cost/How does insurance work/Tax return questions

Accepted Answer

Please visit the services page to see what costs are as they depend on the practitioner, their training, and their experience.

Please consult with your insurance provider to understand what types of licenses are covered. For example, are you covered for a registered social worker or a registered psychotherapist, or maybe both? If you are only covered for a "Psychologist" you will not be covered for our services. It is the responsibility of the client to check with their insurance plan to ensure coverage. Each plan is different, regardless of the insurance company. We do not provide direct billing, however, we provide a receipt after payment of session that you can submit for reimbursement.

Be sure to keep your receipts for tax-return purposes (please see Government of Canada website (https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/about-your-tax-return/tax-return/completing-a-tax-return/deductions-credits-expenses/lines-33099-33199-eligible-medical-expenses-you-claim-on-your-tax-return/authorized-medical-practitioners-purposes-medical-expense-tax-credit.html)for more information). We do not provide direct billing. Your receipt is emailed to you after payment.

Question 4

What can I expect in my first session?

Accepted Answer

In your initial session, the therapist will likely ask you questions about your background, current concerns, and reasons for seeking therapy. They may also discuss therapy goals and explain the therapeutic process. It's an opportunity to establish rapport and determine if you feel comfortable working with the therapist.

Question 5

Is therapy confidential?

Accepted Answer

Psychotherapists registered with the CRPO and OCSWSSW are bound to professional ethics legal obligations to maintain client confidentiality. However, there are exceptions when the therapist is legally obligated to break confidentiality. These include imminent harm to self or others, a vulnerable individual being in danger, and being subpoenaed. A confidentiality form will be sent to you and your therapist will go over confidentiality in the initial session.

Question 6

How can I prepare for my initial session?

Accepted Answer

Be sure to fill out and sign the intake form which gives you the space to discuss what has brought you in and goes over confidentiality. Be sure to add a credit card on file for easy payment processing.

Question 7

How often should I attend therapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

The frequency of therapy sessions can vary depending on individual needs. Initially, weekly sessions are common, but as therapy progresses, sessions may become less frequent. Your therapist will work with you to determine the appropriate session frequency based on your progress, goals, comfort, and schedule.

Question 8

What are your cancelation/late/no-show policies?

Accepted Answer

Our cancellation and no-show policies are tailored to each therapist and will be outlined in your consent form. To avoid any fees, please notify us via email at admin@lavenderpsychotherapy.com ()or cancel your appointment through your client profile on Jane at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled session. Please be aware that your session will be held for 15 minutes, and failure to attend will be considered a no-show, subject to applicable fees. We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, so if you're unable to attend, you're experiencing technical difficulties, or you're experiencing unexpected delays, please email us promptly. We appreciate your understanding and commitment to ensuring minimal impact on our clinicians' schedules.

Question 9

What is an Intern Therapist?

Accepted Answer

We offer low-cost and sliding scale therapy options across Canada through our intern therapists, who are completing their Master’s in Counselling Psychology. They are registered as Qualifying members with the CRPO and are closely supervised by experienced, licensed therapists.
 
Our interns work with a wide range of issues using trauma-informed, neurodivergent-affirming, and culturally inclusive approaches. This is a great option for those seeking accessible support without compromising on quality of care.

Question 10

What is a "Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)"

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, the term "Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)" refers to a specific category of professionals who are in the process of becoming fully registered psychotherapists. This category was created to ensure the regulation and oversight of psychotherapists while they accumulate the required supervised clinical experience and complete an entry to practice exam. Therefore, RP(Qualifying) registrants receive on-going supervision while being licensed professionals.  When choosing a therapist it is crucial to check their credentials and ensure they are registered with a regulatory body (e.g., social work, psychologist, registered psychotherapist).

Question 11

When should I consider starting therapy?

Accepted Answer

Therapy can be beneficial for anyone experiencing emotional difficulties, mental health challenges, or seeking personal growth. It's a good idea to consider therapy if you're feeling overwhelmed, experiencing persistent negative emotions, have experienced trauma, are facing challenging life circumstances, or you want a safe space to reflect and process. Therapy is open and welcome for everyone!

Question 12

Should I book a first session or a consultation?

Accepted Answer

Booking a phone consult is entirely free and allows both the therapist and the client to notice if this is the right fit. If the fit is not there, the therapist can send you referrals to clinicians that may be better suited for you. Starting with a consultation can be a great way to start your therapeutic process. It is not mandatory to book a consultation, you are welcome to skip that step and start your therapeutic journey.

Question 13

Why would a therapist not be suited for me?

Accepted Answer

This can be based on personality or qualifications. For example, you may not feel comfortable with your therapist due to their personality. Another example is that the area or modality of therapy you require does not fit into the experience or practice of the therapist. Finding the right fit can take time and that is okay!

Question 14

What is EMDR?

Accepted Answer

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach used to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. It involves a structured eight-phase therapy process where a trained therapist helps the client reprocess distressing memories by using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or other forms of rhythmic sensory input. EMDR aims to alleviate the emotional distress and negative beliefs associated with traumatic memories, allowing individuals to move towards healing and resolution. This evidence-based therapy is often used to treat conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related issues and symptoms.

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