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Frequently Asked Questions

What Can I Expect In My First Visit?

The first session expects to review and complete some required paperwork.  We then move on to discussing what brought you to counselling. I do an initial assessment in order to gather the information I require to provide the best support possible based on your individual needs and experiences.

How Long Does Each Session Take?

Sessions typically are 55 minutes in length.  There may be times when it would be beneficial from a therapeutic viewpoint to have extended sessions.  This will be discussed between the client and therapist in advance.

What Is The Cost For The Counselling Session?

Please call or email to discuss your rate with me. Many Employee Assistance Programs and extended health care plans will pay for the services of a Therapist with a Master of  Social Work Degree. 

What About Confidentiality?

As a Social Worker, I am ethically bound to keep everything we discuss in our sessions or subsequently documented Confidential.  There are exceptions to this rule, primarily when safety is concerned.  I am legally obligated to report the following:

1. Intent to harm yourself or others

2. Risk of harm to children or other dependents

3. Disclosure of harm by a Health Professional regardless of  how long ago it occurred

4. Ordered by a Court of Law.

What Therapeutic Models Do You Use?

All clients are unique therefore therapy needs to be tailored to address their individual needs.  I work from a Strength-based, trauma-informed perspective focusing on a person's internal strengths and resourcefulness.  Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy are models I use quite regularly in my practice.

What If I Can't Afford Therapy?

In the Waterloo Region, there are options available for counselling if cost is a concern. The following organizations may be able to assist you:
 

  • College & University Students (studentcare.ca)
    Check with your student health services to find out about services available on campus or through your student health insurance.

     

  • House of Friendship (Addiction Services)
    Whether you are a loved one seeking support, are concerned about your own substance use, worried about problem gambling or technology use, or are ready to seek treatment, House of Friendship has a range of services provided by trained professionals using evidence-based practices. There is no cost to participate.

     

  • Alcoholics Anonymous (Addiction Support Group)
    The A.A. program, set forth in our Twelve Steps, offers the alcoholic a way to develop a satisfying life without alcohol. This program is discussed at A.A. group meetings.

     

  • Here 24/7 (Crisis Services)
    Here 24/7 is the local crisis telephone hotline and mobile crisis service. If you or someone you know is experiencing a crisis, they are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Intake, assessment, and referrals for most local government-funded addictions and mental health services in the Waterloo-Wellington area. If you need a service outside what Here 24/7 can offer, we'll do our best to link you directly. 

     

  • ODSP (Ontario Disability Support Program)
    ​The costs of travel to mental health therapy/mental health counselling is covered provided that the treatment has been prescribed by a psychiatrist, other physician or psychologist and the program is provided under the supervision of a psychiatrist, other physician or psychologist.

     

  • OW (Ontario Works)
    ​If you need to attend appointments for medical reasons, Ontario Works may cover these costs. This includes going to medical, rehabilitation, or counselling appointments.

     

  • Counselling Collaborative
    The Counselling Collaborative of Waterloo Region is a community-based partnership between six community counselling service providers within the Waterloo-Wellington Region to ensure that you have access to the counselling services you need. The partners include Carizon Family & Community Services, KW Counselling Services, Family Counselling Centre of Cambridge & North Dumfries, Interfaith Counselling Services, Woolwich Counselling Services, and Shalom Counselling.

Your First Visit
Session Length
Cost
Confidentiality
Therapeutic Models
Affordable Options
Other Resources

What Other Resources Can You Recommend?

These are some of my local, trusted resources for practitioners that can help you beyond counselling:
 

Breakthrough Personal & Professional Development


Bonita Eby is a Burnout Prevention Strategist, Executive Coach, and the owner of Breakthrough Personal & Professional Development Inc., specializing in burnout prevention and wellness for organizations and individuals.
Bonita’s professional healthcare background combines with 20 years of experience developing leaders, training teams, and coaching people to become the best they can be.

Belmont Osteopathy Clinic

A team of complementary and Alternative Healthcare practitioners working together to provide you with treatments that suit you and your circumstances. We offer Manual Osteopathy, Registered Massage Therapy, Foot Reflexology, and Reiki services that aim to improve your health and well-being.

Belmont Natural Health Centre

Naturopathic Medicine is a sensible and comprehensive approach to health care, including integrated medicine services, massage therapy, allergy desensitization, pediatric and autism care, female health and pregnancy, and advanced lab testing.

Sara Lodge Nutrition

Introducing Sara Lodge, your trusted guide to holistic nutrition and the nurturing force behind Sara Lodge Nutrition. With a passion for promoting harmony and clarity in your life, Sara specializes in harnessing the power of the Brain-Gut Connection: the profound link between mental health and gut health.

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