“If we can share our story with someone who responds with empathy and understanding, shame can’t survive.” ~ Brené Brown

It can be daunting to make the decision to seek counselling and not know what to expect. Furthermore, talking to an unknown person, often about things never shared, can feel risky and vulnerable. This first step takes courage and a leap of faith, and Eva honours that; her focus is to make the client feel as safe and comfortable with the process as possible. This involves being open, caring, and nonjudgmental, in addition to helping the client feel respected, heard, and valued.

When you arrive for in-person sessions at the Bracebridge office, a small dog will greet you. If you’d rather not have the dog in the room during your session, arrangements can be made. Eva also provides remote counselling services, including through the Psychology Today platform, for your convenience.

First Session

The initial visit is a period for Eva and the client to get to know each other and get an idea of how to proceed. Subsequently, Eva will ask questions about the client and their life. These questions could include:

• The reason for seeking counselling.
• The client’s objective.
• Personal history.
• Current situation.
• Relationships.
• Problem areas.
• Ways of coping.
• Physical and emotional symptoms.
• Possible barriers to attending counselling such as time, finances, transportation, etc.
• The client’s support network.
• Past experience with therapists.

This time belongs to the client and Eva guarantees to meet them with compassion and nonjudgment. She will explore these questions with them, and to begin forming a plan and goals to provide the best support possible. Moreover, since therapy is a partnership, it’s important to discuss any roadblocks (financial, time scheduling) and to let her know if things aren’t progressing in a way that feels right.

Depending on the client’s issue and goals, therapy can last a few sessions or several weeks or years. While the client may want to know how long it’s going to take to “feel better,” there’s no simple answer. Eva’s approach is very individualized.

“What if becoming who and what we truly are happens not through striving and trying but by recognizing and receiving the people and places and practices that offer us the warmth of encouragement we need to unfold?” ~ Oriah Mountain Dreamer

Choosing the right therapist is a big decision. In order to see if it is the right fit, Eva offers a brief free initial phone consultation to give potential clients a sense of what to expect from therapy. This allows her to determine whether their needs fall within her areas of expertise.

Eva’s fees are based upon the fee guidelines of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. During the initial phone conversation, there will be discussion about the fee and how to make an appointment for the first therapy session. Payment is by cash, cheque or etransfer.

For the client to maximize the value they receive, Eva suggests the following to make the most of your sessions:

• Clearly Defined Goals: It’s important to have clear, defined goals for therapy. These goals should not only be established overall but also for each individual session. This helps focus the session and ensures that you are working towards specific outcomes.
• Pre-session Reflection: Before each session, take some time to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Jot down any points you want to discuss with Eva during the session. This reflection can help you identify important issues and make the most of your time together.
• Openness and Honesty: It’s essential to be open and honest during your sessions, even when discussing difficult topics. This openness allows for deeper exploration and can lead to more meaningful insights and progress.
• Progress Documentation: Keep track of your progress throughout your therapy journey. Note any insights, gains, challenges you’ve overcome, and changes you’ve noticed in yourself. This documentation can help you see how far you’ve come and provide valuable feedback to Eva.
• Frequent Communication: Regularly communicate with Eva about your therapy process. Share your thoughts on what is and isn’t working for you, as well as any suggestions you may have for improvement. This feedback can help tailor your sessions to better meet your needs and goals.

Insurance

Most extended health benefits and insurance programs cover sessions with registered social workers or psychologists. However, coverage can vary, so it’s important to check with your insurance provider.

If you don’t have health benefits or insurance, you may still be able to claim registered social worker sessions as an eligible medical expense for a tax credit. If you are a Canadian resident, you may confirm your eligibility here.

Receipts are provided upon payment.

The following are Eva’s policies. If you have any questions, please contact her.

Sessions

• Individuals, couples and families can schedule 50-minute sessions.
• If needed, longer sessions can be arranged in advance, and the fee will be adjusted accordingly.
• Please provide 24 hours notice for cancellations; otherwise, the full fee will be billed, unless it is an emergency.
• Sessions conducted over telephone, video conferencing, or the Psychology Today platform will be billed at the regular fee.

Confidentiality

• The client’s confidentiality is extremely important. Information shared will not be disclosed directly or indirectly to anyone without informed and written consent.
• In accordance with laws, professional standards and ethical codes, Eva is obligated to release client information without consent for the following situations:
  • Eva has reasonable grounds to suspect:
    • The client is in danger of harming themselves or others.
    • The abuse/harm of a child under 16 years of age.
    • Another regulated health professional has sexually harassed or abused the client.
  • Subpoenaed by a court order.
  • The police present a Court Order, Search Warrant or Urgent Demand for records related to a missing person. 

Collection and Use of Personal Information

Eva will provide the following personal information when appropriate:

• The client’s extended health benefits insurers may request administrative details about the client’s sessions.
• Eva will collect some personal health information about her clients to evaluate healthcare needs and perform therapy. Upon permission from the client, third-party payers, such as WSIB, LTD, auto insurers, and legal representatives, may request this information to determine entitlement to funding.
  

Email Communication of Personal Information

• Email exchanges are not secure because there are too many technological variables not within Eva’s control. Please consider this when emailing about a sensitive issue.

Emergencies

• While short phone calls or emails are acceptable, please call 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Department if you are in an emergency situation.