Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of our most asked questions. Don't see your question listed here? Please feel free to send me a message using the submission form below.
How much do sessions cost?
Sessions are $150/session (50 minutes) and ART sessions are $225/session (90 minutes).
What is your cancellation policy?
We require a 24hr notice if you need to cancel your session. We understand that circumstances can occur that would make it difficult for you to attend your session. We can always change our session to virtual or via phone.
It’s important to remember that the need for mental health services in New Brunswick is increasing, therefore most therapists have wait lists. When we don’t receive enough notice for a cancellation, it makes it difficult to fill that spot with someone who’s been waiting for services.
What is the age of consent for counselling services and who signs for consent?
In the province of New Brunswick, parent(s)/legal guardian(s) are responsible to give consent for counselling services for children and youth under the age of 16. For individuals 16 years and older, they consent to their own treatment.
If parents are separated or divorced, and the child/youth is under the age of 16, both parents will need to consent to treatment. If you have sole decision-making with regards to health decisions, then consent can be provided by that person but a copy of the legal document will need to be placed on file.
If you are the legal guardian of the child, please bring a copy of the court documents to be placed on file.
Are services covered by insurance?
Most insurance companies cover counselling/therapy services, but it’s important that you verify what your plan covers BEFORE you schedule an appointment.
Here are some questions you can ask your insurance provider:
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Am I covered for a Masters in Social Work?
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I am a registered social worker (RSW) with a Masters in social work (MSW)
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What is the maximum dollar amount for counselling/therapy? Is this billed in a calendar year?
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Is there a co-pay?
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insurance may only cover a percentage of the billed service therefore individuals would be responsible to cover the rest.
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Do you provide direct billing?
We provide direct billing to Blue Cross.
If you’re using any other insurance companies for the services, a copy of your receipt with your therapist's name and credentials will be provided. This should be sufficient to be reimbursed. If you run into any issues, please speak to the receptionist or with your therapist. We are happy to help as best we can.
How long are sessions?
A typical therapy session is 50 minutes long, allowing for 10 minutes at the end of the session for your therapist to write their note. With younger children, sessions are sometimes only 40-45 minutes long, with a debrief with parents either before or after the session. Please let your therapist know if you would like to speak to them before or after the session.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) sessions are scheduled for 90 minutes, allowing for time to check in before the session and to debrief afterwards.
How often do I need to come in for sessions?
This really depends on your preference, but typically, 2-3 weeks in between sessions offers enough time to practice new skills and gain insight. Some individuals prefer to meet monthly and this is perfectly fine. You will find a pace that works well for you.
How many sessions will I need?
This question can be hard to answer. Everyone’s journey will look very different. Some individuals take time to feel comfortable with discussing their lives and sessions focused on creating safety and developing the therapeutic relationship is required. If you have a limited amount of sessions you can attend, please let your therapist know so they can structure their sessions accordingly.
What does a first session look like?
For children and youth under the age of 16, the first session is always started with parent(s)/caregiver(s) present. This is because we go over the confidentiality policy and answer any questions or concerns anyone may have. There will be an opportunity for parent(s)/caregiver(s) and children and youth to meet with their therapist individually during that initial session.
The session will continue with exploring how the child/youth is doing at school, both socially and academically, at home, and in the community. Once we’ve gotten to know each other better, we explore current concerns and goals for therapy. Risk for safety to self and others is also explored with parents, children, and youth.
For youth over the age of 16, they can choose to complete their entire session alone and sign their own consent form. This is their right. I often encourage teens to involve their parents in their wellness journey, but ultimately, we have to respect their choice. The rest of the initial session will follow the same format as a session for those under 16.
What if my child/youth doesn’t want to work on what I think is important?
This happens all too often! One of the first lessons I learned as a social worker was to meet people where they are. This means it’s important for the therapist to help meet your child/youth’s needs first, and this could be focusing on their goals for therapy first. Once they feel heard and connected with the therapist, they are much more open to discussing other struggles that parents may have in mind. And remember, change can often cause a ripple effect in other areas of our lives.