FAQs

20 minute virtual consultation – FREE

50 - minute session | $200 - Standard session for those who want a concentrated therapy appointment and feel that their concerns are addressed within the time frame. My most popular session length.

75 - minute session | $250 - Ideal for people who are looking for more time to express their concerns. Less time pressure when you feel that there is a lot of ground to cover. The session length allows more time for goal setting and planning, or if needed, crisis intervention. Subject to availability.

PAYMENT METHOD

Credit card or e-transfer are accepted, and payment will be collected at the end of every session. Counselling with a Canadian Certified Counsellor is covered by many extended benefit plans. After every session you will be provided with a receipt which you can submit for reimbursement. I do not offer direct billing to insurance providers at this time.

·Yes, having a good fit between the client and the counsellor is crucial for achieving successful and effective treatment outcomes. I offer a 20-minute consultation either virtually or over the phone, depending on client preference. Please note, client-requested or third-party consultations with other professionals may result in additional fees and paperwork required.

In-Person Counselling

The Hope & Healing Sanctuary can provide in person sessions to anyone in the Okotoks, Calgary and Foothills area. The office is located at 105 Elma St W, Okotoks, Alberta.

Virtual Counselling

Counselling has come a long way in terms of accepting virtual sessions as an effective and meaningful counselling sessions. In addition, with online counselling, there is no commuting to and from sessions, you can receive counselling from the comfort of your own home, and there is more availability and flexibility for scheduling.

Virtual counselling is available to anyone in the Province of Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan.

Book online now for your first session.

My clients typically reach out for counselling willingly and are motivated to make positive changes in their lives, understanding that this commitment is crucial for their personal growth.

My clients are prepared to put in the work necessary for their personal development, recognizing that growth requires effort, time, and persistence.

My clients often feel empowered and committed to engaging in therapy, even when it becomes challenging, and they understand that facing difficulties is a part of the healing process.

My clients typically are honest and open, willing to share their thoughts and feelings candidly, and they collaborate with me on what is working in therapy and what might need to be adjusted.

My clients are open to feedback and willing to make changes to improve their well-being, understanding that constructive feedback is a valuable part of their growth journey.

My clients are ready to be challenged and to confront difficult emotions and situations, knowing that facing these challenges is necessary for healing and personal development.

My clients typically value the establishment of a safe and compassionate therapeutic relationship as a foundation for exploring vulnerability, and they are willing to invest in building this trust. This sometimes takes time.

My clients typically understand the importance of approaching vulnerability and growth once a sense of safety and trust has been established in therapy, and they are committed to leaning into this process.

If you resonate with these, chances are very good we will be a good fit. Trust and rapport takes time, but the above are what my client's and I strive for in the therapeutic process.

·      The first couple of sessions will be to learn more about what has brought you to counselling an understanding more about the issues. In these sessions we will further define the goals that were set out in session one and collaborate on a plan of action. We will likely discuss additional details about your situation so that our interventions can become even more specific.

Please remember that the first few sessions are always about information gathering. If you are looking for a more solution focused session, please consider booking a single session solution-focused session.

As a dedicated counseling therapist, my goal is to support you in achieving real change and growth in your life. For those seeking significant, lasting improvements, I recommend committing to at least 10-12 sessions.

This consistent, ongoing work allows us to delve deeply into your challenges and develop effective strategies for long-term success. Sessions are typically held on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to maintain momentum and ensure steady progress.

I understand that life can be unpredictable, and some clients may prefer a more flexible approach. If you're not looking for a long-term commitment, I also offer single-session, solution-focused meetings. These can be scheduled as needed and are designed to address specific issues or provide immediate support.

My aim is to accommodate your needs while also managing my schedule effectively. Consistent engagement allows for the best therapeutic outcomes, but I am here to support you in whichever way suits your current situation. Please let me know your preference so we can plan accordingly and ensure that you receive the best possible care.

Understanding the frequency of therapy sessions can help you make the most out of your counselling experience. Here's a breakdown to help you determine the best fit for your needs:

Intensive Therapy

• Ideal for: individuals currently in crisis who require intense, immediate attention.

• Frequency: Two sessions per week.

• Note: Intensive therapy is dependent on scheduling availability.

Making Gains

• Ideal for: Those looking to make solid progress and achieve their therapy goals.

• Frequency: one session per week.

• Session Length: Choose between 50 or 75 minute sessions, depending on availability.

Moderate Support

• Ideal for: Individuals aiming to maintain progress made in therapy and/or start exploring goals more independently between sessions.

• Frequency: One session every two weeks.

Light Support

• Ideal for: Those with outstanding concerns that benefit from some focused, regular attention but are not all-consuming. You are doing well in most other life areas.

• Frequency: One session every 3-4 weeks. This would likely be single sessions bookings as needed.

This breakdown helps ensure you receive the appropriate level of support based on your current situation and goals. If you have any questions or need further guidance on which option is best for you, please feel free to ask.

·      Your appointment time is reserved just for you. A late cancellation or missed visit leaves a hole in the therapists’ day that could have been filled by another client. As such, the client must provide 24hrs notice for any cancellation or changes to their appointment. Clients who provide less than 48hrs notices will be charged a cancellation fee of $100 to the card on file. Clients who provide less than 24 hours’ notice, or miss their appointment, will be charged the full fee of $200. Cancellations can be done through my online booking system, or you can notify me directly via email.

Learn more about ending therapy here.

Most insurance companies mandate which professionals are approved to provide therapeutic counselling services.

As a Canadian Certified Counsellor wit the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, I am committed to providing quality services to the client.

Canadian certification is a national service that identifies to the public those counsellors who CCPA recognizes as qualified to provide counselling services in Canada. Obtaining the status of Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) includes recognition of standards of professional preparation, continuing education, and a formal code of ethics.

You may be able to claim services through Blue Cross, Manlike, Sun Life (Public Services HCP), Canada Life, Green Shield Canada, and Desjardins Insurance.

Insurance companies that have a “Health Spending Account” and other policies or EAPs, may also cover a portion of counselling services depending on the exact policy you hold.

*I encourage you to call your provider prior to booking your appointment to be sure.

This is information about me that you might need when you call your insurance company:

Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association (CCPA)

Designation: “CCC” or Canadian Certified Counsellor.

Membership #11247245

Unfortunately, at this time I am not able to offer direct billing but will provide a receipt with certification details for you to submit at your own convenience.

As a Canadian Certified Counsellor, I am not authorized to write formal letters for workplace leave, which are typically required to be issued by a physician or psychologist. However, I can provide a letter of confirmation of care. This letter will state that you are under my care, and will include the symptoms you have mentioned and that have been observed during our sessions.

Please note that many employers may require this note to be supplemented by a formal recommendation from a physician or psychologist.

If you request a confirmation of care letter, there will be a $30 charge, and it may take up to 5-7 business days to receive it.

As a Canadian Certified Counsellor, I do not conduct formal assessments or provide official diagnoses. However, I have a strong understanding of the DSM-5 and can offer psychoeducation and develop treatment plans for symptoms that fall within my scope of practice.

During our initial consultation, we will discuss your needs and determine the suitability of my services for your situation. This ensures that you receive the most appropriate care and support.

Learn more about the role of the therapist here.

Learn more about the role of client here.