Frequently Asked Questions
I am interested in counselling but not sure it's for me. What do you suggest?
Raynia offers a free 15-minute introductory meeting for those with questions about counselling or who are unsure whether counselling is for them (they can experience the platform during 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?
Raynia 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) to be addressed.
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.
Do you offer family therapy?
The focus of Connected is issues related to aging. Raynia works mainly with individuals on the issues they bring. She is able to work 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 she may work with siblings to learn how to collaborate in caregiving for aging parents. However, she does not practice marital or family therapy or mediation. If these are what you need, she can offer those services of those in her network.
What is your rate?
Raynia's 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.
A 24-hour notice is required for cancellations; otherwise, 50% of the session rate will be charged. The same policy applies to clients who do not show up for their appointments. Due to the nature of the population, exceptions are made for any health-related issues or other appointments that arise.
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 as their primary function. Raynia can provide you with general guidance and information on systems and resources based on her health care background and current networks. She can assist in communicating (with your consent) with health and community resources, depending on the extent and nature of the request.