Frequently Asked Questions

What do the letters behind your name mean?

I obtained my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Masters in Social Work (MSW) from York University. I am Registered Social Worker (RSW) which means I am registered and governed by the British Columbia College of Social Workers (BCCSW), and Ontario College of Social Work and Social Service Work (OCSWSSW).

Can i bill my insurance?

If you have extended health benefits, you may be eligible for counselling. Most major insurance companies cover MSW counselling. It is advised you call your insurance company prior to your visit to confirm your coverage. Here are some questions you may want to ask:

Do you cover a Registered Social Worker? Most insurance companies cover counselling from a variety of professions. Registered Social Workers are commonly covered, but it’s best to check!
How much is my coverage, and what is my maximum amount per session? Ask how much they will pay. With this knowledge, you’ll know how many sessions will be covered, and if you’ll need to plan to pay any expenses out of pocket. It is common for insurance companies to offer a rate below industry standard. Best to be prepared! Knowing how many sessions you have will help us make a plan that works for you.

Do you direct bill?

I direct bill the following organizations:

Ministry of Children and Family Development- Autism Funding Branch
Crime Victim Assistance Program
First Nations Health Authority- Mental Wellness and Counselling Program (MWCP)
Non-Insured Health Benefits for First Nations and Inuit (NIHB)
Please note I do not offer direct billing to insurance companies. Payments must be made, then submitted to your insurance company. Billing is completed weekly.

What is the process of booking a session?

The right fit is an important part of any healing journey. All potential clients are required to have a free consultation before beginning counselling.

You say you work with austic folks. Do you do ABA?

I work with Autistic and neurodivergent young people and adults using a Disability Justice Framework. This framework views neurodiversity as part of human diversity, rather than something that needs correction. As such, my therapy practice is focused on building foundational skills (such as soothing, setting and communicating boundaries, and healthy relationship skills) to build upon life skills. We do not use ABA. We believe ABA is comparative to conversion therapy which is a destructive and abusive practice. If you are seeking ABA, we encourage you to visit the Therapist Neurodiversity Collective to learn about other methods to support your child.

what does a free consultation look like?

It is important in your wellness journey to find a therapist who suits your needs. Consultations are an opportunity for you to share what brings you to therapy, your past therapeutic relationships, and ask any questions you may have. It is also a chance for your therapist to share their approach, experience, and logistical details. Consultations are a maximum of 20 minutes and are held online.

what can i expect during sessions?

If we choose to work together after a consultation, you will be sent an Informed Consent and Counselling Contract along with a booking link. You will have a designated weekly or bi-weekly time slot. You will be sent a Zoom link for our session from the booking system. You will receive a reminder with the Zoom link closer to our session. Click on the link and our session begins!

Remote individual counselling: Sessions are held online via Zoom. Sessions are 50 minutes. The sessions are often a mix between talk therapy, somatic experiencing, and expressive arts interventions. Almost every session will end with assignments or practices to try between sessions.

is online counselling safe?

Zoom is compliant with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA). This means this website is protected to the highest standards of health care professionals.

What kind of issues do you have experience in?

I have experience as a Mental Health and Substance Use Counsellor for a variety of communities including gender identity and sexual orientation minorities, refugees, women experiencing violence, people labelled with developmental and intellectual disabilities, neurodiversity, Autism, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSP), and people experiencing poverty.

I have experience in supporting people seeking support for complex trauma, sexual assault, eating disorders, substance dependency, anxiety, and depression.

Do you offer in-person sessions?

I am not currently offering in-person sessions. In-person sessions will be revisited in the future.

I can’t afford the full-price. do you offer sliding scale?

Our equity efforts are focus on providing service with the Black Queer Therapy Fund, First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) in British Columbia, Non-Insured Health Benefit for First Nations and Inuit (NIHB) in Ontario, and packages for auction in support of the Land Bank Legal Fund. Equity pricing is only available through these services and organizations.