Our approach to change through therapy
What we are trying to change through therapy is:
- the nervous system,
- neurological pathways, and
- the body’s response to stimulus.
Therapy can help facilitate these changes through:
- how we speak and interact with one another in session,
- creating new understandings and meanings of life events,
- learning skills like noticing and naming emotions in the body, emotional regulation, and better interpersonal skills,
- examining and committing to one’s values,
- practicing these new ways of being in session and out in the world.
The theories that inform our work are Mindfulness, Buddhist Psychotherapy, Mentalization-Based Therapy, Attachment Theory, Poly-vagal Theory, Narrative Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never been to therapy before. What can I expect during the first session?
Most people feel very nervous about first sessions, even if they’ve been to therapy before. First, I want you to know that you have the right, at any point, to say you don’t want to talk about something or answer one of my questions. Second, please take advantage of our free 15 minute consultation (book here) so that you can talk to me, see if we feel like the right fit for you, and to get some of those first session jitters out of the way. Finally, rest assured that you will be guided and supported through your first session, as we talk about what brought you to therapy, get a sense of your patterns, and start to set some goals together. You’ll finish the first session with a clearer sense of what we will work on together and how we will get to your goals.
How long does therapy/change take?
Well, that depends. Often we are working to try to change behaviours or thoughts or habits you’ve had for a long time. You may not even know when you started. Sometimes, like when we learn a new language, it takes a lot of time and practice to change. Goals and timing are something we can chat about in our first session and something we will revisit throughout our work together.
How much does each session cost?
Session fees are $180 per session. Sessions are about fifty minutes long, to provide time for note taking after session.
Can I get reimbursement by my insurance for your services?
Most people do have coverage for “Registered Social Workers” or “Psychotherapy” under mental health services or psychology. Please check your individual plan for details.
Do you offer a sliding scale fee for those without insurance?
Yes, I do offer a sliding scale fee for a percentage of my practice. Please reach out to find out more details. My goal is to honour your financial health while supporting your mental and emotional health.