Therapy can be helpful when you want to make changes in your life. When you feel stuck in old patterns, a therapist can help you to explore different perspectives and discover new solutions. Many people feel like they should be able to tackle problems on their own. Deciding to consult a therapist is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, a commitment to making positive changes in your life is a sign of strength. Going to therapy is an investment in yourself.

During the initial session, you will be asked to talk about what it is that brought you to therapy. In the case of couple and family sessions, each person will be asked to share their perspectives. The therapist will ask questions about the problem to develop a deeper understanding and may also ask questions about solutions attempted, other issues, and individual histories. Within the first few sessions, your therapist will ask you about your goals for therapy. Subsequent sessions will focus on reaching your goals along with addressing obstacles and conflicts which may arise along the way.

The duration of therapy varies greatly from person to person and depends on the presenting issues and the goals of the individual. You can speak to you therapist about your needs and goals during your initial session.

You can rest assured that, within legislated safety and ethical guidelines, what you say in the session will not be shared elsewhere and your identity will be protected at all times. You are free to share whatever you choose about your experience within counselling but the therapist is bound by a strict code of professional ethics to remain confidential.

I usually meet with clients on a weekly basis. Weekly sessions allow for addressing important issues and maintain a sense of continuity through the process. However, the frequency of sessions is flexible and ultimately is based on your needs and schedule.

Fees for counselling services are $135.00 /hour if paying privately. A receipt issued may be used for income tax purposes and/or may be submitted to your health insurance provider for reimbursement. Eligibility for tax deductions or health plan reimbursement depends on your particular situation – it’s your responsibility to be familiar with your coverage. 

If you are accessing counselling services through your employer’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) then you are not responsible for paying any fees unless you fail to show for a scheduled session or you cancel with less than a day’s notice.

Fees for mediation services are $150.00/hour but typically these are shared by the parties involved.

Payments can be made by email money transfer, cash, cheque, VISA/MasterCard or Debit Card – payable at the end of each session unless other arrangements have been made.

The Province’s MCP Health Plan does not provide coverage for private therapy fees. However, you may have a private, extended health care plan which may reimburse you up to 80% of the costs. Insurance receipts are available for those covered by such plans. You will need to contact your health care provider for specific coverage details.

If you have to cancel a session you will need to let the counsellor know as soon as possible. You might have an agreement that you would need to give 24 hours notice for a cancellation, otherwise you would be charged for the session you missed. Again, you would be encouraged to explore this with the counsellor.

My schedule is flexible, designed to accommodate your particular needs. Appointments can be scheduled from 9:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. on Tuesdays & Thursdays and 9:00 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. on weekends.

My office is located at 38 Gallows Cove Rd. in scenic Torbay, just 10 minutes outside of St. John’s. The location is confidential and private at the top of a lane overlooking the ocean.