Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Do you offer in person, video and/or phone sessions?

Clients are welcome to see their practitioner either in-person or remotely through video or phone sessions.

How do I make an appointment?

If you are new to the Clinic please contact either Kim O’Leary or John Reilly to book a free Counselling Inquiry session to learn more about how they work and to see if they feel like a good fit for you. Already working with a therapist, you can book sessions either through your therapist or book through the Clinic’s confidential and secure online calendar where you can manage your own appointment schedule.

What are the fees for services?

Individual Sessions: Currently $150.00, and starting January 2, 2024 our fee is $165.00 per 55 minute session. Longer or shorter sessions will cost proportionately more or less than the hourly rate - e.g. a 30 minute session would cost $82.50 while a 85 minute session would cost $247.50. Where applicable, GST may be added to these fees. In particular circumstances, a reduced rate may be negotiated with the individual therapist.

Couples Sessions: Currently $165.00, and starting January 2, 2024, our fee is $180.00 per 55 minute Couples Session and $270.00 for an initial 85 minute Couples Assessment Session.

How can I prepare for online therapy sessions?

Our secure and confidential video-based platform allows you to meet directly with your therapist.

Getting your space and yourself ready

Find a space that will provide the necessary privacy and confidentiality you need. If you have other people around, sometimes playing a radio outside your room can help buffer sound or place a note on your door reminding others that you are in a meeting. Over the years we have seen some creative solutions to make it work. We also encourage you to bring a glass of water, tea or non-alcohol beverage. It’s nice to have some comfort options close by such as tissues, pillow, blanket, pen, paper and for art therapy sessions basic art supplies (we can send you a list).

Create your space to support you to feel available and able to focus on your counselling. Oh, if you are using your work space for your counselling session try to change something in the space to help make the transition from work to counselling. Some ideas we have seen work: sitting in a different chair, moving to a different location in the room, or even placing a plant or pleasant object on your desk that is not usually there.

Distractions are something we all know about to well. So, take a few moments before your session to turn off all the sounds and noises for notifications, calls, messages, you know what we are talking about. If at work, this means turning off other screens and windows that may be open. We want you to get the most out of your session and one way is to minimize distractions. We will do the same on our end!

A few technical things you need to make this work

You need to have access to a computer, audio and video systems. High speed wifi or, better, use an ethernet connection to your modem to support clear and uninterrupted transmission. In case the connection gets a little wonky please have your phone near by so you and your therapist can quickly reconnect and problem solve from there. You will receive email notifications in advance of each session that includes a link to the online platform.

What if I can’t make it for a scheduled appointment?

The Clinic has a 24 hour cancellation or rescheduling policy through which you will be charged the full fee for missed sessions. The automated scheduling system will allow you to reschedule outside of the 24 hour period. You are encouraged to contact your therapist in situations where they become aware within the 24 hour period of not being able to attend the session, for example, in the case of illness or an emergency. In some cases, in person sessions can be changed to online to accommodate your situation.

Expressive art therapy work online?

If you are interested in expressive arts therapy online, prior to your first session, your therapist will send you information with a basic list of art materials to have available. Please make sure you have the physical space available and the communication technology (e.g. computer, video camera and audio system) to participate fully in the expressive processes of the session. Still deciding and want more information, feel free to contact us and we are happy to share more about this process.

Are the Clinic’s services covered by insurance?

In some cases, yes. Insurance coverage generally follows the professional credentials of the therapist providing treatment. It is your responsibility to contact your provider to ensure that the therapist’s credentials align with their particular policy. You will be provided with a receipt that identifies the therapist’s professional registration and it is up to you to submit to their provider for compensation. John Reilly is an approved provider for Medavie Blue Cross (Veterans Affairs), Pacific Blue Cross and First Nations Health Authority and can direct bill on behalf of clients, if it is their wish.