New to therapy?
Starting therapy can feel daunting and overwhelming and if that's the case, here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you as you get started.
Why do a consultation?
Finding a therapist can feel overwhelming, and a strong therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my approach.
Consultations are a great way to get a sense of whether I’m someone you feel comfortable talking to and whether we feel like a good fit. Before fully sharing your story, a consultation gives you the chance to explain what you’re looking for, ask any questions, and do a “vibe check” to see how it feels to connect with me.
Therapy is a process that unfolds over time, so finding someone you genuinely feel comfortable with and understood by is really important. The consultation is simply a starting point to help you decide whether this feels like the right place for you.
What's the first session like?
Sometimes I hear clients share how nervous they feel coming into their first session, so you’re not alone if this comes up for you too.
The first few sessions are focused on me getting to know you and your life. We’ll usually start with what things look like for you right now, and then gently begin to explore your background and upbringing, as well as what you’re hoping for moving forward. As I gather this information, it helps me better understand where you’ve been, where you are, and where you want to go.
How often should I come?
The right session frequency depends on your needs, goals, and where you are in your process.
Weekly Sessions
Ideal for building momentum, deepening insight, and creating consistent support—especially when starting therapy or working through more immediate challenges. Weekly sessions provide a steady space to process, practice new skills, and stay connected to your growth.
Biweekly Sessions
A good fit for ongoing work with a bit more breathing room between sessions. Biweekly sessions allow time to integrate and reflect, while still maintaining regular support and continuity.
Monthly Sessions
Best suited for maintenance, check-ins, or continued support after more intensive work. Monthly sessions help you stay grounded and aligned, particularly during periods of relative stability.
Session frequency can shift over time depending on your life circumstances and evolving needs. You don’t have to commit to one option—together, we can adjust and find what supports you best at different stages.
Is counselling confidential?
Confidentiality is a key part of counselling and helps create the safety needed for you to share your story. One of the unique aspects of therapy is that you’re able to talk about things you may not have shared with anyone else, in a space that is private, supportive, and non-judgmental. You can feel assured that what is shared in our sessions stays in our sessions.
There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality where a counsellor is required to take further action:
(1) If a child is, or may be, at risk of abuse or neglect
(2) If there is imminent risk of harm to yourself or someone else
(3) If clinical records are required by a court order or subpoena
If you have any questions about these limits, I’m always happy to talk them through with you. You would never be taken by surprise or feel blindsided in relation to confidentiality, and I would always aim to discuss anything like this with you as openly and clearly as possible.