Psycho-therapeutic Relationship

Psychotherapy is a collaborative relationship built on clearly defined rights and responsibilities. As a client, you have rights and responsibilities that help support the therapeutic process. I, as your psychotherapist, also have legal and ethical obligations to uphold.

Goals of Psychotherapy

Therapeutic goals vary and are set by you based on your needs. These may include long-term goals such as improved well-being and self-awareness, or short-term goals like managing anxiety, building relationships, or addressing specific behaviours. I may offer guidance, but the direction of our work is up to you.

Risks and Benefits

Therapy can bring up difficult emotions and memories, and progress may be gradual. There are no guarantees of success. However, many clients experience meaningful benefits such as improved coping skills, reduced symptoms, greater emotional regulation, and a better quality of life. Your active participation, both in and between sessions, is essential for progress.

Appointments and Cancellations

Sessions are 50 minutes unless otherwise arranged. Appointments are reserved for you and you alone. Please provide at least 48 hours’ notice for cancellations. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice, or missed without notice, will be charged the full session fee.

*Note: Insurance providers do not reimburse for missed sessions. Late arrivals will still end at the scheduled time.

Confidentiality

Your information is kept private. I will only release information with your written consent, except in these situations:

-Risk of harm to self or others

-Suspected child abuse or neglect

-Court orders or subpoenas

-Consultation with other mental health professionals (without identifying details)

-I will always limit disclosures to what is legally required and will consult other professionals as needed.

Parental Involvement

Parents/guardians are encouraged to participate in the therapeutic process, including regular check-ins with the therapist. However, to support the development of trust and openness, a degree of confidentiality will be maintained between the therapist and the child.

While the legal consent is provided by the parent/guardian, the therapist will also seek the child’s voluntary participation (assent) in therapy. If the child is unwilling to engage, this may be discussed with the parent/guardian to determine next steps.

Record Keeping

Session notes and treatment plans are securely stored using the Janeapp electronic system. Any paper notes are destroyed once transferred. Records are retained for a minimum of 10 years. If you request a release of your records, a signed consent form specifying the recipient and content is required. Parents have the right to access records; however, the therapist may limit access to protect the best interests of the child.

Fees and Payment

Payment is due at the time of your session unless otherwise arranged. Accepted methods include cash, e-transfer to info@counsellingandbehaviour.com or through the credit card we have on file. Fees are non-negotiable. Unpaid balances may be referred to collections and/or result in legal action. OHIP does not provide coverage for our services.

A 15% fee will be applied to invoice and balances if payment is not received within 15 days of service. This amount will be charged to the credit card on your file.

Additional Fees

-Letters or reports: billed based on time spent (not always covered by insurance).

-Court involvement or subpoenas: billed at the full hourly rate including travel and expenses.

Insurance

If your plan covers mental health service from a Social Worker, you are responsible for submitting claims to your insurance provider. I will provide a receipt with my registration number. If your insurer requires additional information, I will assist as needed.

Contacting you therapist

For non-urgent matters, please email info@counsellingandbehaviour.com. Messages are typically returned within 2 business days.

This practice does not provide emergency services. If in crisis, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

Email Communication

Email is used only for administrative purposes. While I use a secure and encrypted account, email is not appropriate for psychotherapy content. You may opt out of providing your email; however, I may occasionally use it to check in or share helpful resources.