Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started & Expectations

• What should I expect during the first session? Our initial meeting (intake session) focuses on understanding what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and your goals. We will also review practice policies, confidentiality, and answer any questions you have to ensure you feel comfortable.

• How long does therapy typically last? Session count varies by individual. Brief, solution-focused therapy may take 6 to 12 sessions, while deeper developmental or complex trauma work can be ongoing. We will regularly review your progress together.

• How long and how frequent are sessions? Standard individual sessions run for 50 minutes. Most clients start with weekly or bi-weekly appointments to maintain momentum, adjusting frequency as goals are met.

Confidentiality & Logistics

• Is everything I share completely confidential? Yes. Your privacy is legally and ethically protected. Information is never shared without your written consent, with very few legal exceptions: explicit risk of imminent harm to yourself or others, suspected child or elder abuse, or a court subpoena.

• What is your cancellation and missed session policy? We require at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice will incur the full standard session fee.

Fees & Insurance

• What are your rates, and do you accept insurance? Individual 50-minute sessions are $170.00. While we do not bill insurance directly, we provide itemized receipts upon request for you to submit to your provider for out-of-network reimbursement.

Online Therapy, Security & Tech Requirements

• Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
  Yes. Research consistently shows that online therapy (telehealth) delivers equivalent clinical outcomes for most mental health concerns. It offers the added benefits of convenience, zero commute time, and receiving support from the comfort of your own space.

• Is the online video connection secure and private?
  Absolutely. Sessions are conducted using encrypted, healthcare-compliant platforms (Jane App) that meet strict legal privacy standards (HIPAA/PIPEDA). Video streams are never recorded or stored.

• What technology or equipment do I need to attend?
  You need a desktop computer, laptop, tablet, or smartphone equipped with a working camera, microphone, and a stable high-speed internet connection. Using headphones or earbuds can improve audio clarity and prevent ambient room noise.

• Where should I be located during my session?
  You must be located in a private, quiet space where you cannot be overheard or interrupted (a closed room, private office, or parked car). For legal and regulatory reasons, you must also be physically located in the province (British Columbia) where your counsellor is licensed at the time of your appointment.

• What happens if the video or audio cuts out mid-session?
  If technology fails, we follow a simple backup plan: your counsellor will wait 60 seconds for the platform to reconnect. If it does not, they will call your primary phone number so you can finish the session via voice call or troubleshoot the connection together.