What is therapy like?
Therapy provides an opportunity to explore and understand life experiences. People can gain new awareness from various challenges. Therapy is about the exploration of how we are impacted by our life experiences and discovering different choices and strategies to resolve the difficulties that keep us stuck.
Therapy varies from person to person and therapist to therapist. It is important to do some research on your therapist. Whether that is visiting their website, talking to them on the phone or in person. You can also check out their Facebook page, blog or LinkedIn.
Ask all the questions that you have on your mind so there are no misunderstandings. It is always better to be both on the same page, so your time together will be worthwhile.
What happens after we schedule the first session?
After you schedule your first session, you will come in to meet with me. I will invite you to share what’s been going on in your life and what’s brought you to me. This session gives us a chance to get to know each other. We will also sign and complete forms.
Do not worry if you do not know what you want out of therapy, we can discuss that together.
Are you covered by my insurance company?
Registered Social Workers are covered by most insurance companies. Contact your Human Resources Department to find out the details of your employee benefit plan or your private insurance company.
How does confidentiality work ?
All of the personal information that is gathered and discussed in therapy will be kept private and confidential, in adherence to the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 (PHIPA) in Ontario. Your information will not be shared with anyone without your informed and written consent.
As a Registered Social Worker, there are limits to confidentiality. I am legally and ethically obligated to break confidentiality in the following situations:
- If there is imminent risk of harm to self or harm to others
- If I suspect that a minor is at risk of being harmed
- If I am subpoenaed by the legal court
- If you report being sexually abused by another regulated health care provider
Confidentiality will be discussed during your first session. For more information on confidentiality and terms of service, click here.
How much do you charge?
Therapy services are not covered by OHIP. Some extended benefits plans include coverage for therapy with a Social Worker. If clients do not have coverage, they pay out-of-pocket.
At Blackcy Placidass Counselling and Psychotherapy, clients pay $140 for a 50 minute session. However, for those on social assistance or in school, fees can be negotiated.
What happens if I need to cancel/reschedule my appointment?
If you are unable to attend your scheduled appointment, please notify me by telephone or email no less than 24-hours before the scheduled session. You may be billed for the missed session.
What if I am not ready?
It is completely alright if you are not ready. Taking the first step is hard to do. That is why I offer a FREE 15 minute consultation on the phone for my clients to get a better feel for who they will be working with and to help answer any of your questions and concerns. Feel free to call me at 647 964 2870.
