FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy

How do I know if you are the right therapist for me?

It is very important to find the right "fit" with your therapist. Moreover, it is important to feel that your therapist "gets" you; that you feel deeply understood. It may take several sessions to determine the issue of fit. While there may be moments of conflict in therapy, these conflicts can be valuable opportunities to work through similar problems in other areas of your life. It is important to feel that you and your therapist can work through these "glitches" successfully. Read more in What to Expect in Therapy.

What educational and professional training do you have?

I am a graduate of the Toronto Institute of Psychoanalysis where I was trained in psychotherapy and psychoanalysis. Each year, I attend many workshops and conferences as part of continuing education. I hold an M.S.W. degree and a Ph.D. in Medical Science (psychiatric research.) To find out more, see "About Me."

How long does therapy last?

The length of the therapy is quite variable, but is typically a minimum of six months and frequently longer. It takes time to tackle the underlying issues and not just the current problem. And it takes time to move forward in new and constructive ways. Read more in What to Expect in Therapy.

How long is each session?

Sessions are 50 minutes in length.

What happens to my information? What is your policy about privacy and confidentiality?

It is a requirement of my professional college that privacy and confidentiality be honoured. This means that I cannot share information about you with anyone without your written consent. The only exception to this policy is situations of imminent danger to you or to someone else.

Files are stored securely in my office. Eight years following the termination of treatment, files are shredded by an onsite shredding facility. You can read my online privacy policy as it relates to this website here.

Do I need a referral?

While you can self-refer for treatment, you will need a referral letter from a physician for income tax purposes in order to deduct fees as a medical expense.

Can we do a therapy session by Skype or FaceTime? Is there a different fee?

I can offer therapy and supervision by Skype or Facetime. The fee is the same as it would be in person.

What are your fees?

Fees are based on a sliding scale and are negotiated individually. Fees are not covered by OHIP. Depending upon the nature of your Extended Care Benefits, employers may cover a limited number of sessions. Check with your employer about your specific benefit package to find out about whether or not my services are covered as a Registered Social Worker. Fees are also income tax deductible as a medical expense and are GST exempt. I accept payment by cheque or by Interac money transfer.

During the initial assessment period (2 to 3 sessions), I ask that you pay after each session. If we decide to work together on an ongoing basis, I will bill you at the end of the month. I appreciate payment within two weeks.

What is your cancellation policy?

If a session has to be cancelled, it can frequently be re-scheduled. However, I ask for a minimum of 24 hours notice. You may be charged for cancellations with less notice.

Where is your office Located?

My office is located in downtown Toronto at the intersection of Charles & St. Thomas St. (near Bay and Bloor in Yorkville). It is one block west of Bay St. and one block south of Bloor.

It is one block west of Bay St. and one block south of Bloor (see location map.)

Via TTC: a 3 minute walk from Bay subway station in Yorkville or a 4 minute walk from Museum Subway Station.
Via Car: There is free visitor parking in the building.

What are my Hours?

My hours are from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.







Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions not covered above







Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst Associations Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers University of Toronto logo Wilfrid Laurier University logo International Psychoanalytic Association Toronto Psychoanalytic Society and Institute Camh - Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Toronto Institute for Contemporary Psychoanalysis