Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

Do I need a referral to start therapy?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed. You can reach out to us directly to book a free 15-minute consultation. We'll help you find the right therapist and get you started — no doctor's note or referral required.

Question 2

What should I expect in my first session?

Accepted Answer

Your first session is a chance for you and your therapist to get to know each other. Your therapist will ask about what's brought you to therapy, your background, and what you're hoping to work on. There's no pressure to share more than you're comfortable with — the pace is always yours to set. By the end of the session, you'll have a sense of whether the fit feels right and what next steps might look like.

Question 3

How do I choose the right therapist?

Accepted Answer

Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and the therapeutic relationship matters enormously. We encourage you to read through our team's profiles to get a sense of each therapist's approach, areas of focus, and personality. If you're unsure, our free 15-minute consultation is a great opportunity to ask questions and see whether the connection feels right — there's no obligation to book after.

Question 4

How long does therapy take?

Accepted Answer

There's no single answer — it depends on what you're working through, your goals, and how you respond to the process. Some clients find meaningful progress in 8–12 sessions; others benefit from longer-term support. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to review your progress and adjust the plan as needed. Therapy is never open-ended without purpose — we're always working toward something.

Question 5

How long are sessions?

Accepted Answer

Standard individual therapy sessions are 50 minutes. Couples and family sessions may be slightly longer depending on the format. Your therapist will confirm session length when you book.

Question 6

How often will I need to come?

Accepted Answer

Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which helps build momentum and consistency early in the process. As you progress, sessions may shift to bi-weekly or monthly depending on your needs and goals. Your therapist will discuss frequency with you and adjust as your situation evolves.

Question 7

Do you offer virtual therapy sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer secure, confidential video sessions for clients who prefer to meet online or who are unable to attend in person. Virtual sessions are just as effective as in-person therapy for most presentations, and many clients appreciate the flexibility. You can discuss your preference when booking, and switching between formats is always an option.

Question 8

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We require a minimum of 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule a session. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed appointments without notice, will be charged the full session fee. This policy exists to respect the time of our therapists and to keep appointment availability open for other clients. If you are experiencing an emergency, please contact us as soon as possible — exceptions are made at the discretion of your therapist.

Question 9

How much does therapy cost?

Accepted Answer

Session fees vary by therapist and session type. We're happy to discuss fees during your free consultation so there are no surprises — affordability matters to us, and we want to find a path that works for you.

Question 10

Do you accept insurance or extended health benefits?

Accepted Answer

Many extended health benefit plans cover services provided by a Registered Psychotherapist (RP). We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm your coverage, including any annual limits or per-session maximums. We provide receipts after each session that you can submit directly to your insurer.

Question 11

Do you offer a sliding scale or reduced-rate sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We believe that financial barriers should not prevent someone from accessing mental health support. We offer a limited number of sliding scale and reduced-rate spots for clients who qualify. If cost is a concern, please mention it during your consultation — we'll do our best to find an option that works. You can also visit our Affordable Therapy page for a full overview of access options.

Question 12

Is what I share in therapy confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Everything you share with your therapist is strictly confidential. We are bound by professional and legal obligations to protect your privacy. There are a small number of exceptions required by law — for example, if there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or if a court orders disclosure. Your therapist will explain these limits at the start of your work together so you always know where you stand.

Question 13

How is my personal information stored and protected?

Accepted Answer

We take your privacy seriously. Client records are stored securely and handled in accordance with Ontario's privacy legislation. We use encrypted, PHIPA-compliant platforms for all electronic communications and record-keeping. Your information is never shared with third parties without your explicit consent, except as required by law.

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