Counselling involves the development of a therapeutic relationship between one or more individuals and a psychologist. The focus is on the individual(s) presenting concerns and challenges. Counselling can help people develop a better understanding of who they are and how their behaviours, thoughts and emotions are impacting their quality of life.  

It also helps connect people to their inner resources to allow for better, more satisfying emotional and social functioning.

Click here for handouts from Canadian Psychology Association (CAP) on What is a Psychologist? and What to Expect Seeing a Psychologist. 

It is appropriate to consult with a psychologist if you are experiencing any emotional, social, or behavioral problem. 

Click here for a great article on deciding to see a psychologist and why you might choose to see a regulated professional. 

It is completely normal in the psychology field for you to look around and find a psychologist who best fits you and your goals for counselling. This can take some time and may involve you having to try working with a few psychologists until you find someone who feels right for you.

We feel that there has to be a good match between the client and the psychologist for a good working relationship to build. This can be determined after the first session or it can take longer. If the fit of the services does not meet your needs, it is always your right to change your mind at any time, and referrals are always provided for other resources or to individuals who specialize in certain areas. 

Although this will be thoroughly discussed in your first session together (and in future sessions as needed), it is important to know that as psychologists we adhere to the standards of confidentiality outlined by the Canadian Psychological Association (CAP).  

There are a few limitations to our confidentiality you will be made aware of in your first session. In addition, before you share any information, we will make sure we are very clear about who may have access to any of the information you provide in your sessions.

Individual sessions are 50 minutes in length. This provides the clinician with 10 minutes to write case notes after the session is complete. Couples and Family Counselling tends to be about 90 minutes in length to ensure that every person has enough time to express their perspectives. This is flexible and can be adapted to the needs of each family and couple.

The length of time it takes to successfully complete the counselling process depends on the nature of your presenting concern, your needs, and your goals for counselling. Some clients complete their work in as little as four or five sessions, but for more long-standing concerns, the time to see lasting change can be longer.

When you come in for your first session and we have discussed your goals for counselling, a better indication of the time frame may be possible. 

If you need to cancel an appointment, we ask that you contact us as soon as possible.

To avoid a charge for a missed appointment, please provide as least 24 hours’ notice of your cancellation.

No, a referral is not needed. However, we will contact you once we have received your information so we can set up a 15-minute phone consultation to determine who is the best fit for you and who will provide the best services to meet your needs.

Psychological services that are provided by a Registered Psychologist are often covered by external health care benefits. Make sure you check your insurance coverage before you start therapy to ensure your services are covered.