Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this is a legitimate license status issued by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). This is a protected titled and whomever holds it has completed the required education. Individuals with this title must adhere to the professional standards and the Code of Ethics of the CRPO.

“Qualifying” means the registration examination of the CRPO has not yet been completed. It also means that individuals must practice under clinical supervision until a total of 450 direct client hours and 100 hours of supervision have been completed.

If your insurance plan covers Registered Psychotherapists then it will almost certainly cover those with the (Qualifying) status as well. My registration number will be on all invoices and receipts.

Also printed on all invoices and receipts will be the name and registration number of my supervisor which should satisfy your insurer’s requirements.

I like to ask clients to think of this as getting two for the price of one. Working with a supervisor means I have someone experienced with whom I can ask questions and seek guidance. You have the benefit of both my and their experience. Please be assured your identifying details are not disclosed and your privacy is always protected.

You also have the benefit of a lower session fee. As a newly licensed professional I charge a lower rate. You have the benefit of my many years of experience without having to pay a higher fee.

Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or counselling, is a treatment method used to help individuals deal with a wide range of mental health issues, emotional difficulties and psychological distress. Psychotherapy occurs when the therapist and client enter into a psychotherapeutic relationship where they work together to bring about positive change in the client’s thinking, feeling, behaviour and social functioning. Individuals usually seek psychotherapy when they have thoughts, feelings, moods and behaviours that are adversely affecting their day-to-day lives, relationships and the ability to enjoy life.

When a client enters into a psychotherapy relationship they should expect the following to occur:

• A conversation about the benefits, risks and expected outcome(s) of the psychotherapy and the opportunity to give their informed consent.

• A clearly communicated, mutually agreed upon goal or plan for the psychotherapy.

• Each therapy session has a clear beginning and a clear end where problems or concerns are presented and discussed and outcomes are explored.

• The Registered Psychotherapist demonstrates the appropriate use of boundaries to create a safe and confidential environment.

These important elements are part of the effective client-therapist relationship that is the foundation of psychotherapy. Through this relationship, Registered Psychotherapists are expected to:

• Ensure the client’s well-being is at the forefront of the relationship.

• Work with the client to gather relevant information which supports the formulation of a plan for psychotherapy.

• Continuously evaluate outcomes of each session and the impact on overall treatment goal(s).

• Practise safe and effective use of self throughout the psychotherapeutic process.

• Adhere to the standards of practice for the profession.

Yes. Some argue it may be more effective because unlike in-person therapy sessions are uninterrupted by the weather or other obstacles which might make attendance difficult. There is also more flexibility for people who have busy schedules. As long as you are in a private space, you can attend therapy from work or locations other than your home.

In our first session you can expect me to conduct some procedural questions. This is one of the reasons I do not charge a fee for the first session. I am obligated to conduct procedural questions and processes, such as the informed consent and intake process. This is an opportunity for us to get to know one another. It is also your chance to ask me questions about my approach to the therapeutic process.

Psychotherapy will affect individuals in different ways. Once you begin to discuss the situations, circumstances and events of your life you can expect to experience a variety of emotional reactions. It is not unusual to have a range of feelings, from anger to elation. Some people will cry. The therapy “room” is a safe space for you to let your guard down and experience your feelings.

Sessions are 50 minutes in length. I encourage you to be on time for your sessions as I am unable to extend your session if you are late. In case you are late to join our video call, I shall wait for 15 minutes in the video room. If after 15 minutes you do not attend, I will consider your appointment a “no show” and I will charge your credit card on file for the full amount. Please note a receipt cannot be issued for unattended sessions.

I understand that life happens. Unexpected events and emergencies can occur. If this has happened I will hope you contact me at your earliest opportunity to discuss your circumstances. It is my intent to approach each circumstance with compassion.

My fee is $136/50-minute session. Your credit card information will be on file in my secure platform and it will be charged immediately following the completion of your session. You will be issued a receipt.

Booking and Cancellation Policy:

Frequently missed or cancelled appointments will impact the effectiveness of the therapeutic process, but sometimes cancellations are unavoidable. This is understood by your therapist.

If you must cancel or reschedule an appointment you agree to do so with at least 24 hours’ notice. Appointments which are cancelled and/or rescheduled with more than 24 hours’ notice will not be charged an appointment fee.

Failing to provide proper notification via email, with 24 hours’ notice, will result in being charged a full appointment fee. Please note that an insurance receipt cannot be issued for unattended appointments.

A “No Show” Appointment:

Your therapist will wait in the virtual room for up to 15 minutes in case you are running late. If after 15 minutes you do not attend, this is considered a “no show”. The therapist will terminate the connection and a full session fee will be charged, without the issue of a receipt. Please note late arrivals cannot be compensated with longer session times. (If a “no show” occurs during a free session then no fee will be charged.)

Emergency Cancellation Policy:

Upper Canada Counselling and Wellness understands that emergencies happen and life can be unpredictable. If you miss a session due to a crisis or emergency, please contact your therapist directly, via email, to explain your situation. Circumstances such as medical emergencies, family emergencies, accidents and other unforeseeable personal crises will be discussed on an individual basis. Eileen aims to be flexible and compassionate.

Sessions are 50 minutes in length.

This depends on many factors, including the reason(s) you are seeking therapy, the treatment plan we create, and how your needs may change and evolve as we move forward.

Yes. All sessions are 100% confidential. Nobody else will be in the room with me, or you, and I am bound to maintain your privacy. Sessions are conducted using a safe and secure platform. The platform I use for our sessions, for note taking, the storage of your chart and documentation and billing is 100% PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) compliant.

Please note there are specific situations which might necessitate breaking confidentiality. These will be discussed during the informed consent process in your first session.

Not at all. In fact, sometimes individuals see a therapist to avoid having a problem. Or sometimes individuals want to discuss a smaller issue before it develops into a bigger problem.

There is benefit to attending therapy even with there isn’t what you might consider a substantial issue. Many people benefit from talking with someone they feel safe with, and with whom they can share their thoughts and feelings. Therapy is a judgment-free space for you to open up, let your guard down and relax. It’s a place where you will feel seen and heard, and you can share things you might not feel comfortable sharing with anyone else.

Therapy is also a place for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, and learn about yourself, without judgment. You can develop new ways of coping and handling your issues and challenges. As your therapist, I can help you learn many mindfulness practices that can contribute to your well-being and happiness.

Please feel free to reach out to me directly if you have any questions. I respond to all email messages within 24 hours. eileen@uppercanadacounselling.com