Frequently Asked Questions
I am interested in counselling but not sure it's for me. What do you suggest?
I offer a free 15 minute introduction meeting for those who have questions about counselling, for those who are unsure whether virtual counselling is for them (they can experience the platform through this meeting). It's also an opportunity to see if you feel there is a fit- there are many counsellors and therapists out there with a wide range of backgrounds, approaches and areas of focus.
I think I want to start. Where do I begin?
I will send you a link to register and you will need to complete the informed consent. We will schedule your first session and a link will be sent to your email address. Sessions are approximately 60 minutes in length. The first session is spent gathering information to help get to know you and learn more about the issue(s) we will work through together.
How often do we meet?
It completely depends on your specific situation and what you are bringing to counselling. Some clients wish to meet weekly or biweekly. Some have very specific issues and they only require a few sessions. Some caregivers find it overwhelming to meet more than twice a month. And some people find they need a slower pace- choosing to meet once a month giving themselves time to reflect between sessions. Typically I recommend meeting weekly for the first few sessions. From there, we can decide what works best.
Do you offer family therapy?
The focus of Connected is issues related to aging. I work mostly with individuals on various issues that they bring. I am able to work together with a person and their spouse who are looking for ways to adapt their relationship due to a change in health or a recent diagnosis, or I may work with siblings to learn how to work together in caregiving to aging parents. However, I do not practice marital or family therapy or mediation. If this is what you are looking for, I have colleagues I am happy to refer you to.
What is your rate?
My counselling rate is $165 for the hour, payable by e-transfer following the session. Many private insurance plans cover the services of a Registered Social Worker (sometimes partially). It is best to check with your insurance provider to see if you have coverage. After payment, you will receive a receipt which can be sent to the insurance company.
I request 24 hours notice for cancellations, otherwise 50% of our session rate will be charged. The same applies for clients who do not show up to their appointments. By nature of the population I work with, exceptions are made for any unforseen cirumstances to do with health or other issues.
What if I don't want virtual counselling?
Some see virtual counselling as a default to face to face counselling, especially post-pandemic when it's no longer required. However, there are many benefits to virtual counselling and I usually suggest trying the introductory meeting to see if it might be something you are open to. Otherwise, I offer telephone counseling, and in some instances face to face at retirement residences, or "walking and talking" (Central Toronto).
My mother is about to be discharged from the hospital and I need someone to help arrange services. Do you do this?
The systems that older adults depend on are indeed complex and often times stressful. There exist case management companies that offer this service. I am able to provide you with general guidance and information on systems and resources based on my health care background and current networks, but I do not offer case management or system navigation.