Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a therapist is a big step, and it's natural to have questions. Below are some of the most common things people ask when considering starting therapy with me. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out — I’m happy to help.
About Therapy & My Approach
What kinds of concerns or life experiences do you support clients with?
I support adults navigating a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, overwhelm, burnout, self-esteem, and relationship stress. My specialty is trauma therapy, with a focus on how past experiences can impact your present life. Whether you're working through recent events or long-held wounds, I offer a safe, collaborative space for healing.
Do you see families, couples, or teens?
At this time, I provide therapy services exclusively to adults aged 18 and over. If you are looking for support for couples, families, or younger clients, I’m happy to help you find a therapist who specializes in those areas.
What modalities or approaches do you use in therapy?
I work from a humanistic and person-centered framework, which means I believe that you are the expert in your own life, and that healing happens through respectful, genuine connection. In this approach, you set the pace, and I offer warmth, empathy, and non-judgment as we explore what feels meaningful to you.
Depending on your needs and preferences, I also draw from other evidence-based modalities, including:
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Narrative Therapy, to explore and re-author the stories you hold about yourself and your life
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to help shift patterns in thoughts, emotions, and behaviours
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Somatic approaches, to connect with your body and nervous system
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Mindfulness, to foster present-moment awareness and emotional regulation
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Relational and Emotionally Focused to understand how early relationships shape current experiences
Do I need a diagnosis to come to therapy?
No diagnosis is required to begin therapy. Many clients come in with a sense that “something isn’t right” or that they want things to feel different — that’s more than enough. Whether or not you meet criteria for a formal diagnosis, your story and your pain are valid. I'm here to support your growth, healing, and well-being at whatever stage you’re at.
How do you create a culturally safe and inclusive space?
I am deeply committed to fostering a therapy environment where everyone feels seen, respected, and valued for who they are. This means actively honuoring diverse identities, including race, culture, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, and spiritual beliefs.
I continuously engage in learning and self-reflection to challenge biases and expand my cultural humility. My goal is to create a space where you can bring your whole self without fear of judgment or dismissal. If there are aspects of your identity or experience that feel especially important to you, please feel welcome to share them so we can work together in a way that truly honors your uniqueness.
What if I’m unsure about starting therapy?
That’s completely okay. Many people feel nervous or uncertain when considering therapy, especially if it’s your first time or if you’ve had mixed experiences in the past. You don’t need to have it all figured out to begin. Therapy can be a space to explore that uncertainty gently, at your own pace.
The discovery call is a no-pressure place to ask questions and see how it feels to connect. You can also learn more about my approach here.
What should I expect in the discovery session?
The discovery session is a free, 20-minute phone or video consultation. It’s an informal space where we can talk about what’s bringing you to therapy, your goals, and whether we feel like a good fit to work together. You’re welcome to ask any questions — there’s no pressure to share your full story.
Logistics & Scheduling
How long will therapy last? Can I stop whenever I want?
Therapy is a deeply personal process, and there’s no one-size-fits-all timeline. Some clients come for a handful of sessions to work through something specific, while others engage in longer-term therapy for deeper healing and self-discovery. We’ll check in regularly to make sure the work continues to feel useful to you.
You are always free to pause or end therapy at any time with no explanation required. My goal is to support your growth, not to keep you in therapy longer than you want or need. If and when you’re ready to end, we can talk about how to wrap up in a thoughtful, supportive way.
How often will we meet?
Most clients start with weekly sessions, which helps build momentum and connection. Over time, we may shift to bi-weekly or occasional check-ins based on your needs and goals. We’ll always make these decisions collaboratively, and I’ll support you in finding a rhythm that feels sustainable and supportive.
Is everything we talk about confidential?
Yes. Everything we discuss in therapy is kept confidential. There are a few legal and ethical exceptions to this: if I believe there’s a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or if there’s a legal obligation to report (such as suspected abuse of a child or vulnerable adult), I may need to share limited information with appropriate supports. If those situations ever arise, I will always aim to discuss it with you first and involve you in the process whenever possible.
What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Life happens and I understand. I ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Cancellations with less notice (or missed sessions) may be subject to the full session fee, unless it’s due to illness or an emergency. I do my best to be flexible while also protecting space in my calendar for those who need support.
What if I feel like I’m in crisis or need immediate support?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsafe and think you may be in crisis, please know that you're not alone and there is support available. While I offer steady and compassionate care during scheduled sessions, I am not able to provide emergency or 24/7 support.
If you need immediate help, please contact:
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Durham Mental Health Services (24/7): 1-800-742-1890
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Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566
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Ontario Mental Health Helpline: 1-866-531-2600
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Or call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department if your safety is at risk
Once you're safe, you’re always welcome to reach out and reconnect when you're ready.
Fees & Payment
What are your fees?
My session rate is $145 per 50-minute session.
I accept e-transfer and credit card payments, and provide receipts you can submit to your insurance provider for possible reimbursement. If finances are a concern, I offer limited sliding scale spaces — feel free to ask if one is available.
Location & Access
Where is your office located?
My office is at 519 Dundas St. East in Whitby, Ontario, by appointment only.
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Free parking is available on site
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Durham Region Transit provides easy access via public transit
Is your office accessible?
I offer in-person sessions in my second-floor office, which is accessible only by stairs. With notice, I may be able to arrange a main-floor space.
If that isn’t possible, we can explore other options together, including virtual sessions, so you can access care in the way that feels most comfortable and accessible for you.
How do I book a session?
You can send me a message through the Contact Form below to request a discovery call or book your first session.
I usually respond within 1–2 business days.
Get in Touch
Thank you for considering me for your counselling needs.
If you have any inquiries or would like to schedule an appointment, please feel free to reach out. I am here to support you on your path to healing and personal growth.