Do you offer in-person services?

I offer video/virtual services only, unless it's Nature-Informed Therapy.

Nature-Informed Therapy is a unique service that takes place outside. It's not a fit for everyone so it's something I would formally assess for (online) before our first meeting (outdoors).

What are your hours?

My availability is usually between 10 AM - 6 PM (AST) Monday to Thursday. My last appointment is at 5 PM (AST).

Why is talking to you different than talking to my family or friends?

Therapy is not just talking, it helps rewire and process emotions. Friends and family are great for support, but sometimes you need help that they just can't provide (read my blog on this topic). Maybe you don’t feel comfortable sharing certain things, or you need unbiased advice. A professional counsellor offers a fresh perspective, teaches useful coping skills, and provides a completely confidential, judgment-free space. Plus, you never have to worry about "burdening" them—helping people through tough times is what they're trained to do.

There's overwhelming research on what determines positive outcomes in therapy, and it's the therapeutic alliance between client and therapist (ie. the trust built in the therapeutic relationship), rather than a particular modality/approach.

What is the difference between life coaching and counselling therapy?

As a Registered Counselling Therapist, I provide counselling therapy which is a regulated healthcare service that is focused on addressing mental health issues in relation to (and not limited to) your career (a.k.a. career counselling), psychospirituality, identity, loss, emotional regulation, self-awareness, and/or relationships.

Under provincial legislation, only individuals who are registered with the NSCCT are permitted to use the title “Registered Counselling Therapist.” Life Coaching is not a regulated health service (in other words, it does not address or treat mental health conditions and is not subject to the same standards and regulations as counselling therapy). It focuses more on setting and achieving goals in a future-oriented way. I only offer this service in specific circumstances (please reach out to discuss if this is a fit, as my coaching services cannot be booked online). Life coaching is typically not covered under health insurance.

What is the difference between career counselling and counselling therapy?

Career counselling is a sub-category and specialty of counselling therapy. I've had many years training as a Registered Counselling Therapist in career psychology and use career counselling to support people with the emotional, psycho-spiritual, psychological and practical parts of career decision-making, career identity and workplace stress. "Career counselling" is a counselling modality/approach and is billed as counselling therapy, just like if a therapist were using "CBT", "Acceptance and Commitment Therapy", or "Family Therapy" as a modality/approach.

How much do you charge for organizational consulting (ie. webinars, employee training, PD workshops)?

I have a range of fees depending on your needs. Feel free to book a free phone consult here to discuss how I can help you.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes.

I am a Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT). I am also a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with the Canadian Counselling Psychotherapy Association (CCPA). 

Depending on your current health insurance provider or employee benefit plan, it is possible for services to be covered in full or in part. Please contact your insurance provider or HR office to clarify your coverage to see if RCTs or CCCs are a part of your insurance plan and to verify how your plan compensates you for counselling services.

My counselling therapy services may also be claimed on your taxes as a healthcare expense (for Nova Scotia residents) depending on your circumstances.

Examples of Accepted Insurance Plans:

• Blue Cross
• Canada Life
• Great-West Life
• Green Shield Canada
• Manulife
• Medavie Blue Cross
• Pacific Blue Cross
• SunLife
• Telus Health
• Industrial Alliance

Do you offer a sliding scale?

I offer a limited number of sliding scale spots on a case-by-case basis to support individuals who are underemployed, students, or otherwise navigating financial constraints.

These rates are not intended as a substitute for insurance, but as a way to make therapy more accessible for those in lower-income situations. If you believe this may apply to you, feel free to reach out to discuss availability.

Do you direct bill to insurance?

No. I provide you with a paid-in-full receipt the day of our session which you can use to submit for reimbursement with your insurance provider on your own.

What happens during an initial consultation?

The free consultation is a chance for us to meet and decide if we are a good match to work together. I will listen to your story and give you an idea of how I can help you. There is no obligation to book an appointment. If you would like, we will agree on a session time and move forward.

How does online therapy work?

Virtual counselling has proven to be highly effective, with research demonstrating its success in providing accessible and impactful mental health support.

We will converse via video using my confidential online platform. Please find a quiet and private room for your session where you won't be disturbed. I recommend you log in early to check your internet connection and sound so our time together can be focused and productive.

I don’t see any available sessions that work for me on your online scheduler?

Not all my availability is publicly displayed. Please contact me and I'd be happy to find a spot for you!