1. Is counselling right for you?
You may be looking for a solution to a specific problem or need a supportive ear to to help you through your difficulties. Whatever the case may be counselling may be the resource you're looking for.
Counselling can help you during important life transitions and can offer you the space you need to make decisions and learn about new opportunities. Through a supportive environment you can learn about different perspectives by breaking self-defeating patterns of behaviour. Counselling can also help you create healthy and sustaining relationships with others by allowing you to learn about yourself. Through effective counselling you can learn how to better adapt to your environment and handle daily burdens and stressors in a more effective and productive way.
2. What are the benefits of counselling?
Counselling can offer you the opportunity to talk about your feelings and concerns in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. It provides you with a structure to work with so that you can identify the areas in your life that are problematic and empower you through specific methods and techniques. In addition to feeling better, the tools you learn will help you feel empowered and provide you with changes that are long-lasting.
3. What can I expect in a consultation?
A consultation is not a session. It is a 30 minute, face-to-face meeting in which you can discuss the process of counselling and decide whether it is the right step for you. I have found that face-to-face consultations are better than over the phone because it provides you with the opportunity to evaluate your comfort level with the counselling environment. During this time you are welcome to ask questions and evaluate whether my approach is the right fit for your particular needs at this time in your life. This is also a good opportunity for you to ask questions regarding fees, scheduling, credentials, experience, confidentiality and other related matters.
4. What is your policy on confidentiality?
Confidentiality is an issue not taken lightly. My aim is to provide you with a safe environment to discuss your personal issues and this remains private and confidential. As a Registered Psychologist with L'Ordre des psychologues du Québec (OPQ) I am required to follow specific confidentiality guidelines. When you come in for a session you will be asked to sign a confidentiality form.
5. How long will therapy take?
The therapeutic process is individual and varies from person to person. The duration of therapy will depend on your particular needs as well as your readiness for change. In many cases individuals feel better even after the first session however it may take months or even years to get to the point where your goals are met. I offer both short and long term treatment plans and this will be discussed in detail during our initial session.
6. Are services covered by my health insurance?
Yes, therapy services are covered by most health care insurance plans. It is important that you check with your individual plan in order to determine what your yearly maximum may be. I can provide you with a receipt for your insurance company at the end of each session.
7. How can I book an appointment?
You can book a free consultation or your first session by filling out this form, by emailing me at lisa@lisasmb.com or by phone at 514-965-5472. Once I have received your submission I will get back to you within 24 hours.
8. What are the fees and method of payment for services?
Clients pay for their sessions at the end of each visit. In this way payments and accounts remain manageable. Your fee will be discussed during the initial session.
