Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions asked when starting therapy at Lake Wellness
I’m interested in therapy but still not sure. What can I do?
I offer a complimentary 15 minute call to new clients in order for us to determine if we’re a good fit to work together. This is an opportunity to go through any questions that you may have about me or about the process, scheduling and fees etc. This call would also be an opportunity to briefly understand what’s been happening for you and what you may want to get out of therapy.
If we feel like it’s a good fit, great! We move on to the next step of scheduling our first virtual session.
How would I know if you’re a good fit for me?
To help determine if we may be a good fit to work together, I offer 15-minute complimentary meet and greet appointments to new clients who request it.
Even after, it’s normal in the first session or two to feel a little bit awkward as we get to know one another, especially if this is your first experience with therapy (of course that’s not the case for everyone!). After a few sessions, you should know if it is a good fit based on how you feel about our sessions together and your personal comfort level.
Is it possible to see you in-person rather than virtual?
Currently Lake Wellness only offers services virtually but will be expanding to include a hybrid of in-person sessions as well in the near future.
Do you do psychological assessments?
Yes.
Lake Wellness does conduct formal psychological assessments for various disorders (Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Eating Disorders, Personality disorders, Bipolar). These brief psychological assessments typically occur over 3 sessions and may be done before starting therapy or can be done as a stand- alone services.
Are your services covered under OHIP and/or Insurance ?
Services offered by Lake Wellness are not covered under OHIP, but can often be covered by extended health insurance plans and are tax-deductible. The coverage for each insurer is different, so please check your plan to confirm coverage for psychological services, the claim procedure, details required on receipts, and whether or not you will require a referral letter from your physician.
What is the cost for therapy /Assessments ?
Lake Wellness fees are informed by the recommended guidelines of the College of Psychologists of Ontario.
The cost for a 50-60 minute therapy session is $235. Prices are adjusted accordingly for 30 minute or 90 minute sessions.
The cost for psychological or ADHD assessments range between $1200-$1400.
I've seen similar services offered elsewhere. Why are there differences in fees?
There are a few professions that are allowed to offer psychotherapy services some of which include psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists and social workers.
However, it’s most important to note that there are distinct differences in education, training and clinical experience across professions which guide the cost differential you may see.
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How many sessions do I need? And how frequently should I be booking?
The number of sessions can range depending on the complexity of issues but I encourage that new clients plan for a minimum of 3 sessions. This gives us some time to get to know each other, better understand the issues and set therapy goals.
Frequency of sessions depends on level of support you may need, scheduling and finances. Typically sessions would be scheduled once a week for the first few visits and then move to bi-weekly and/or monthly as therapy progresses.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule a session, we require 48 hours notice. Let us know by email or call and leave a confidential voicemail. If a late cancellation occurs (or no show), the full session fee will be charged.
Would you need to talk to my partner/work/school/health professional?
As a part of therapy sometimes it’s helpful for a therapist to have periodic contact with a client’s partner/school/work/Doctor to advocate for them, help others better understand their challenges and how to support them. This would only be done with a client’s explicit written/verbal consent. We would then discuss together what would be disclosed with the person/professional and/or organizational and their involvement.