FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Collingwood Psychotherapist
Frequently Asked Questions

Therapy helps us come to a new understanding of ourselves, our emotions, thoughts, and psyche. It is a deep dive into our soul, into places we don’t always go in our day-to-day lives. A common misconception is that therapy is only for people who are struggling, but truthfully, it can benefit everyone. Therapy is also a time where you can unload the stresses of life, joined by a supportive, kind, and empathetic therapist who can help you process whatever you need to. In doing this, the hope is that we become more aware, enlightened, and lighter.

Good news, we’ve all been there! Everyone has some nerves the first time they do therapy. The fact is, humans don’t always like talking about themselves or their fears, needs, desires, etc. But, therapy may not be what you think it is. It’s not exactly what you see on TV or in movies. I do my best to make you feel comfortable and safe. Sometimes, therapy might just feel like you’re having a chat with a good friend. Other times, it can be a bit harder. If you’re nervous, I want to help you work through that and get you to a point where you feel good about coming. Trust the process, it won’t feel scary forever.

This truly depends on you and your needs. Some people benefit from short-term therapy to help with an immediate need or crisis. Others spend months or years developing a relationship with their therapist, and they use therapy as a maintenance tool throughout their life. You are the boss when it comes to this decision, but together we can collaborate on what makes sense for you and your goals. You may also want to decide whether you have therapy weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, etc. These are all decisions that can be made in the first few weeks of therapy.

Many insurance companies do cover psychotherapy services. However, it is important to do your research to determine if that is the case with your specific provider. It is your responsibility to determine if psychotherapy is covered, and I do not do direct billing. I will provide you with a receipt of payment for you to submit.

Currently, I see some in-person clients one day a week. However, the majority of my clients are virtual. I am open to discussing both possibilities with you. Most times, virtual sessions work just as well as in-person! However, some people do desire the in-person setting, so I make every effort to accommodate. For in-person sessions, they are held at a downtown Collingwood location. I also do walk-and-talk therapy which can be a great way to meet! This usually involves meeting in a public place like a park, and simply walking and talking.

Currently, I can accept cash, e-transfer, or credit card payments. Credit Cards are often easiest, since they are processed and held on a secure health management system. Once a session is complete, I can charge the credit card on my end and that means less time for you to worry about payment!
Psychotherapists are not crisis workers. If you are in an acute mental health crisis it’s important that you seek support right away. In the event that you require immediate assistance for mental health support please contact the Mental Health Crisis Line at 705 728 5044. In case of an emergency please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
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The Benefits of Therapy

Therapy offers a unique space for personal growth and emotional exploration, providing benefits not only for those facing challenges but for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of themselves. It’s a journey into the seldom-explored areas of our minds, guided by professionals who provide support and insight. 

Whether you’re grappling with nerves about starting therapy, wondering about the duration and frequency of sessions, or considering the practicalities of insurance coverage and payment methods, this introduction outlines the key aspects of engaging in psychotherapy. From dispelling myths to discussing the format of sessions—be it in-person, virtual, or even walk-and-talk—this overview is designed to illuminate the process and encourage a comfortable and reassuring start to your therapeutic journey.

Holistic therapy recognizes the unique journey of each individual. No two people are alike. In therapy, we seek to understand the underlying causes of our mental health concerns, which can be vastly different for each person.
Ian Raeburn-Gibson