FAQ’S

Make a selection below for answers to your questions.

How long are the sessions?

Sessions are one hour long.

How often should I attend sessions?

This really depends on how you are doing and what issues are concerning you. In general, I like the first few sessions to be weekly to ensure that we have covered the background information, and established the goals and plan for therapy. If the issues concerning you are interfering with current functioning or happiness, it is probably helpful if you are able to continue weekly or every two weeks. If you are at a stage where you are simply fine-tuning and not feeling any sense of urgency, we can spread the sessions out further.

How many sessions will be required?

This depends on the nature and the number of concerns that you have. If you are feeling good about most areas of your life and simply looking for a brief consultation to ensure that you are on track or to address one particular problem, we may only need a couple of sessions. On the other hand, if you are unsatisfied with one or more areas of your life, and the problem has persisted, longer term counselling may be required. I would be able to answer this question better after one or two sessions.

Is there anything that I need to do to prepare?

No, you do not need to prepare. Some people arrive knowing exactly what they want to address in counselling. Others present just knowing that they do not like how they are feeling – overwhelmed, angry, sad, confused. Either way, as we review the different areas of your life, we are able to identify the issue or areas requiring attention.

Are sessions covered by Health Insurance (OHIP)?

Psychological services are not covered by OHIP. Many people have coverage through extended health care plans provided by their employer. Also, receipts can be used as a tax deduction. See Referral Process/ Coverage for more information.

What methods of payment are accepted?

Payment may be made by etransfer, cash or cheque.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you are cancelling or rescheduling, there is no charge for the missed appointment if 48 hours notice (2 business days) is given.

Are sessions confidential?

All information in sessions is confidential. You can choose to release specific information to another party such as your family doctor by giving written consent which you can withdraw at any time. There are a few limits to confidentiality which will be explained at the first session.

My relationship is in trouble, but my partner is unwilling to attend counselling. Is there any sense in me attending on my own?

Yes. Even if your partner is not currently willing to join you in counselling, it can be beneficial to attend on your own. The support, insight and guidance from individual counselling can help you cope and help you change current patterns in the relationship. Your partner may be willing to consider couple counselling at a later date.

I have never been to counselling before. What can I expect?

After a couple of sessions, you should be feeling reasonably comfortable with your counsellor. If you are not feeling comfortable, do not assume that you are the problem. Perhaps he/she is not a good match for you.

Also after a couple of sessions, you should have a good idea of your goals and the plan/ approach for counselling.

Sutherland Counselling
Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I will understand. ~ Chinese Proverb