The initial session is, first and foremost, a chance for you and your therapist to get to know one another and build your therapeutic relationship, which is the foundation for your work together. Your therapist will take the lead if you don't know where or how to start and most people report that the first session feels like a comfortable chat.

We always like to start with learning who you are outside of the reason that you have come to therapy. We may ask questions about your history or experiences and you are welcome to share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. We will also discuss your goals and expectations for therapy and set an intention for our work together so that you know what to expect.
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This depends on your goals and the level of support you are looking for. Some people with specific short-term goals may benefit from a brief therapy model (1-4 sessions), while others will benefit from longer-term, ongoing therapy (12+ sessions). Generally, by the end of the first session, we will have established clear goals and expectations for our time together but this may change as we continue working.  

As sessions progress, we may revisit our goals or change direction based on your emerging experience. We always work collaboratively with clients, which also means transparency about length of services so you feel clear about your time and financial investment.

Psychotherapy sessions may be covered in part or full by private insurance and employee benefit plans. If you are a student, you may have access to coverage through your institution’s extended healthcare benefits.

Many plans with psychotherapy coverage will cover sessions provided by either a Registered Social Worker (RSW) or a Registered Psychotherapist (RP), however it is important to speak directly with your insurance provider to confirm this.

Our team of therapists have been carefully selected for their skills in supporting a diverse range of clients and life experiences so we have no doubt that you will be in good hands with whoever you work with. Many people find that choosing a therapist is based more on gut instinct than logic. You can read through our therapists' bios here and see who you feel most connected with. If you don't know where to start, fill out the consultation request form on our Contact page and we will be in touch with our recommendation for the best therapist fit for you.

We offer a complimentary 20-minute phone call where we can discuss your goals for therapy and address any questions you may have prior to our first session. If it doesn't feel like a good fit, we are happy to provide you with a referral to another therapist who may be more suitable for your needs.

Social workers and psychotherapists are both mental health professionals that are permitted to practice psychotherapy in the province of Ontario, where psychotherapy is regulated. Social workers in Ontario are regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers and use the title “Registered Social Worker” (RSW), while psychotherapists are regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and use the title “Registered Psychotherapist” (RP). Social workers and psychotherapists may work in similar settings, however there are some differences in training pathways.

Yes! We are excited to offer in-person sessions based out of Hamilton, Ontario, at an office that is easily accessible by car and public transit. Inquire more about in-person sessions by reaching out to our administrative team here.

You are welcome to cancel or reschedule any psychotherapy session as long as you provide a minimum of 48 hours notice. If you are unable to attend an in-person session due to sickness or poor weather conditions, you are welcome to switch to a virtual appointment up to the time of your appointment. No-shows or appointments cancelled within 48 hours of the scheduled session are subject to the full session fee.