Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re exploring therapy for the first time or returning after some time away, it’s completely normal to have questions. This section is here to offer clarity, ease uncertainty, and help you understand what working together might look and feel like.
There’s a lot of information here, and you’re welcome to read as much or as little as you like. Most of this is something we’ll talk through together when we meet.
General Questions About Therapy
How do I know if therapy is right for me?
You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected, or curious about how you relate to yourself or others, therapy can be a meaningful space to explore. The best way to know if it’s a good fit is often to try a conversation.
What happens in the first few sessions?
In our early sessions, we’ll talk about what brings you in, explore your history at a pace that feels comfortable, and get a sense of what you’re hoping for. It’s also a chance for us to build rapport and see whether my approach feels right for you.
Do I need to prepare anything before we meet?
You don’t need to prepare anything. You’re welcome to jot down thoughts or questions if you find that helpful, but it’s not required.
Is therapy confidential?
The CRPO (College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario) defines limits of confidentiality where therapists MUST or MAY breach privacy, primarily for preventing significant, imminent harm (self or others), mandatory reporting (child/elder abuse), legal orders (subpoena), or for College administration/investigations, always disclosing only necessary information, with specific rules for deceased clients and contacting substitute decision-makers if incapacitated.
How long will therapy take?
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, which is my primary modality, is a longer-term process. Many clients work with me for a year or more (beyond 40 sessions), but the length of therapy depends on your goals, history, the depth of the work you want to do, and how often we meet. We can revisit your progress at any time.
How long is the free consultation?
Consultations are typically 30–50 minutes. This gives us time to talk without rushing, understand what’s bringing you in, and explore fit. There is no pressure to decide at the end of the consultation.
How do I know if you’re the right therapist for me?
Feeling safe, understood, and able to be yourself is key. The consultation is your opportunity to sense whether my style, presence, and approach resonate with you.
Sessions: Length, Frequency, and Format
How long are therapy sessions?
Individual sessions: 50 minutes
Couples sessions: usually 75–90 minutes (60-minute option available)
Family sessions: 75–90 minutes
How often do we meet?
Most clients attend weekly or bi-weekly, depending on needs and availability. We can adjust frequency throughout our work together.
What is the format of our sessions?
I offer in-person sessions in Streetsville, Mississauga and virtual video sessions.
While I can offer phone sessions when necessary, it’s not my preferred modality unless technology requires it.
For online sessions, I use Zoom rather than Jane’s internal platform. You’ll still receive automated reminders from Jane, but please do not click “Join Session” in those emails.
What happens if I’m late?
Sessions end at the scheduled time to respect both your schedule and the next client’s. The full fee still applies.
Can I contact you between sessions?
You’re welcome to reach out for scheduling matters or brief questions. Therapeutic conversations happen in session, and I do not provide regular crisis support between appointments. Response times may vary, but I do my best to get back to you within 1 business day.
What should I do if I’m in crisis?
If you’re in immediate danger or need urgent mental health support, please call 911, go to your nearest emergency department, or contact your local 24/7 crisis line.
Fees, Insurance, and Payment
What are the session fees?
50 minutes – $140
60 minutes – $168
75 minutes – $210
90 minutes – $252
Do you offer sliding scale spots?
Yes. I have a limited number of sliding scale spots based on need, and we can discuss availability during the consultation.
Do you direct bill insurance?
I do not offer direct billing. After payment, you’ll receive a receipt that you can submit for reimbursement through your insurance provider.
What forms of payment do you accept?
E-transfer, credit card, or cash.
Please note that credit card payments include an additional 2.75% processing fee.
When and how do I pay for my session?
You can pay in advance (it will show as a credit on your Jane account), or after your session. Payment is due within 48 hours after the session.
E-transfers can be sent to info@21stcenturyhuman.ca, and credit cards can be securely stored inside your Jane profile.
Thank you for understanding that timely payments are a vital part of our work together. When payments are delayed, it takes time and energy away from client care which I always want to prioritize.
Jane Account, Online Booking, Forms, and Cancellation Policy
Why is online booking only available for consultations?
Online booking is enabled only for free consultations to make it easier for new clients to reach out, as I understand it can feel daunting to take the first step. If none of the available times work for you or you hope to book sooner, feel free to contact me directly as openings sometimes appear on short notice.
Why do I have to create a Jane account?
I understand it may feel tedious to create an account, especially if you’re still deciding whether we’ll work together. If it helps, you can sign in using your Google, Facebook, or Twitter account rather than creating a new password. Creating an account doesn’t commit you to therapy. It simply gives you access to the consent forms, allows you to securely store your information, and enables Jane to send you appointment reminders and receipts.
Why do I have to complete consent forms before the consultation?
I’m required to have basic information before we meet, even for a consultation. This ensures I can provide care safely and in line with professional standards. According to the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), therapists must have an agreement with a client before offering services through electronic communication. While this agreement doesn’t have to be long or formal, it does need to cover the essentials and be documented.
Completing the consent forms ahead of time meets these requirements and also helps us use your consultation time to focus on you—your questions, your story, and your needs—rather than paperwork. I’m happy to review any parts of the form with you during the consultation, but please keep in mind that it will use some of our time together.
What is your cancellation policy?
I require 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule a session, otherwise the full session fee applies. This allows enough time to offer the appointment to someone else. Emergencies happen, and I always approach those situations with care.
Location, Parking, Shoes and Accessibility
Where are you located?
In-person sessions take place in Chi Bar Acupuncture & Wellness at 89 Church Street South in Streetsville, Mississauga. See the contact page for map and details. This address is for in-person sessions only. The mailing address on receipts is used for insurance submissions.
Is parking available?
Parking is available at the back of the building, accessed from Church Street. Please use the parking spots on the right side when you enter off Church Street. If those spots are full, you may park in the large church parking lot beside us.
What should I expect when I arrive for an in-person session?
When you arrive, please take a seat in the waiting area and I will come out to greet you at our scheduled session time. Chi Bar kindly asks clients to remove their shoes in the waiting room. If you prefer not to leave them there, you’re welcome to bring your shoes into my office and put them back on once you’re inside.
Is your office wheelchair accessible?
The side entrance into Chi Bar Acupuncture & Wellness is not wheelchair accessible. However, the entrance directly into my office from the outside is accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices. If you use a wheelchair or have specific accessibility needs, please reach out before your appointment so I can ensure you have clear directions and a smooth arrival.
Progress, Goals, and Ending Therapy
How will we know if therapy is working?
You may notice clearer insights, changes in how you relate to yourself or others, shifts in emotional patterns, or greater stability and self-understanding. We check in regularly to make sure our work is supporting your goals.
Can I pause or end therapy at any time?
Yes. You are always in control of your pacing and participation. I encourage discussing endings together when possible, as it can help with clarity, reflection, and a meaningful sense of closure.
Specialties and Fit
Do you work with menopause-related concerns?
Yes. This is one of my areas of specialization. I support clients through the emotional, relational, and physiological changes that accompany perimenopause and menopause. I also work with partners who are navigating this transition alongside their loved one, as it can be a confusing and impactful time for relationships as well.
Do you work with couples who are unsure about staying together?
Yes. Many couples come in feeling uncertain. Therapy can be a space to slow down, explore what’s happening, and understand what each partner needs.
Do you work with teens or children?
I work exclusively with adults aged 18 and older. Family sessions are available as long as all participating family members are adults.
If you don’t see your question answered, feel free to reach out. I’m happy to answer anything you’re wondering about before you decide whether to book a free consultation or we can explore your questions during the consultation itself.