Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a therapy/counselling session?
You can complete this form to request an appointment with me (Click HERE).
What if I don't living in Toronto/North York?
All my sessions are currently conducted online via Zoom. You can request Online session(s).
What is the cost per session?
The fee for each 50-minute session with me is $200
Are your services covered under OHIP?
No, my psychotherapy and counselling services are not covered under OHIP.
Are your services covered by extended health care plans?
Yes, I am a Registered Psychotherapist(RP), and my services are covered by many extended health care plans. Please contact your insurance provider to confirm that your plan covers psychotherapy with a Registered Psychotherapist(RP).
Do I need a referral from my family physician?
No, I do not require a referral from your family doctor. However, if you have an extended health plan, your insurance company may request a doctor’s referral for coverage.
What if I cannot afford the therapy fee?
If you have a health insurance plan, it typically covers a portion of the fees. However, if your plan does not cover the fees and they are unaffordable, please let me know. In certain cases, discounts may be available for clients.
How long does the therapy process take?
The exact duration of therapy cannot be determined in advance. Some individuals may feel significantly better after just a few months, while others may require longer-term treatment.
What is CBT?
CBT, or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, is one of the most effective and widely-used approaches in psychotherapy. It is among the few forms of psychotherapy that have been scientifically tested and proven effective in numerous clinical trials for various disorders. Unlike other forms of therapy, CBT tends to focus on the present, is often time-limited, and is oriented towards problem-solving. Patients also acquire specific skills they can apply throughout their lives, such as identifying distorted thinking, adjusting beliefs, improving interpersonal relationships, and altering behaviors.
What is Schema Therapy?
Schema Therapy is an integrative treatment approach that blends elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), experiential, interpersonal, and psychoanalytic therapies into a cohesive model. It has demonstrated significant success in helping individuals change long-standing negative ("maladaptive") patterns, even when other methods, including CBT, have not been effective. This approach is particularly beneficial for those with persistent patterns or themes in their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Schema Therapy helps address and modify these deeper patterns, often referred to as "schemas" or "lifetraps."
How will I know if therapy is working?
In CBT, many patients notice a decrease in their symptoms within a few weeks of therapy, or even sooner, if they have been faithfully attending sessions and doing the suggested assignments between sessions on a daily basis. In schema therapy however the changes require more time, as deep-seated patterns are the main target in this approach.
Is it confidential?
Confidentiality is one of the core components in psychotherapy. Everything you share with me will remain completely confidential, except in cases involving serious harm to yourself or others, child abuse/neglect, or a court subpoena.
What about medication?
Many patients and various issues are treated effectively without medication. However, some disorders respond better to a combination of medication and psychotherapy. In such cases, we can discuss whether a consultation with a family physician or psychiatrist is appropriate. If you prefer not to take medication, we will assess your progress after a few weeks and determine whether a psychiatric consultation for more information on medication might be beneficial at that point.
In what languages is counselling/therapy offered?
I offer therapy/counselling in English and Farsi.
Do I need to pay double, if I bring another person (e.g., a partner)?
No, the fee for each 50-minute session remains the same, regardless of how many clients attend the session. However, please note that I am not offering couple or family counseling at this time.
Can I bring my child/teenager for therapy?
My psychotherapy and counseling practice is focused on adults, and I do not work directly with children or teenagers (under 18 years old). However, I can provide consultations to help you with parenting strategies and support for your child or adolescent.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you are unable to attend a counseling session, I require at least 24 hours' notice of cancellation so I can offer the time to another client. If notice is not provided, you will be charged half of the session fee. If you miss a session without prior notice or once your session time has already begun, the full session fee will apply.
Is there parking?
[My sessions are currently all online]
What is the difference between Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists, Counsellors and Social Workers?
These titles carry different meanings depending on the country or province. To learn about what these titles mean specifically in "Ontario", please click HERE.
How do i pay the fee for my online sessions?
It depends on your location, but typically you can pay via e-transfer, or provide your credit card information for remote payment processing.