Counselling

Counselling is a collaborative process for change that occurs between you and the psychotherapist/counsellor and is a legitimate source of support. The counselling process is designed to help and support you; it can result in many positive changes as well as overall improved quality of life. There are, however, no guarantees. The change you make will depend on you since you are responsible for your own personal development and growth.

Please note that you may experience strong emotions during the counselling process. You may also experience some upheaval after each session. Such emotional responses are considered a normal part of the therapeutic process.

Confidentiality

The personal information you share in sessions will be kept strictly confidential. Confidentiality extends beyond the termination of the counselling. There are, however, some exceptions to the counsellor’s duty to report. These are as follows:

1. In the event of the client's expression of an intention and/or plan to harm self or others.
2. If information is evident that you are neglecting or abusing a child or an incapacitated adult.
3. In the event of a subpoena issued for the appropriation of the counsellor’s notes and/or reports.

Other limits to confidentiality include clinical consultation and/or supervision. It is my responsibility to regularly upgrade my professional training and knowledge as well as to seek regular consultation with another accredited professional in Psychology or Counselling. The identity of clients is protected during such consultations.

All session notes, copies of letters, reports and all other documentation prepared on your behalf are securely stored at my administrative office/ virtual office.

Reviews, referrals and termination

During the counselling process, you have the right at any time to:

• have a review of your progress and any topics contained in this form;
• withdraw your consent for the collection, use or disclosure of your personal information, except when not permitted by law;
• terminate the counselling process. Ideally, the client and therapist collaborate when counselling is completed, which allows for a planned and gradual termination of the therapeutic relationship. If, however, at any time you decide to discontinue the process, I would appreciate the opportunity to talk with you about your decision or to assist you in arranging for another professional to work with you;
• you may review and/or obtain a copy of the contents of your file by providing your psychotherapist/counsellor with a written request. Please note that your right to review and/or obtain a copy of your records can also be made after the therapeutic relationship has terminated. In the event that legal restraints prevent such access, your request will not be fulfilled.

Payment

My fee is $150.00 per 55-minute session unless other arrangements have been made in advance (i.e. you have been referred through an EFAP, Ministry of Social Services or Victims Compensation Services). If your session is online, please send payment prior to the session. In-person sessions can be paid by cash, e-transfer, Barterpay or cheque prior to the session or immediately following each session.  

Cheques are to be made out to Maitri Counselling & Coaching. An official receipt will be emailed once payment has been made.

Health plan or insurance reimbursements or payment by third parties

It is your responsibility to pay the counsellor directly for services unless otherwise specified as mentioned above. It is also your responsibility to confirm your coverage amount and seek reimbursement for the cost of all services. Should your health plan or insurance provider not reimburse you for all costs, please be advised that the psychotherapist/counsellor cannot refund costs for any services provided.

Missed appointments

Counselling is most effective when clients regularly attend scheduled sessions. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please inform the psychotherapist/counsellor via telephone and/or email 24 hours prior to your scheduled session. Clients who make cancellations on the day of the appointment will be charged $70. No-shows with no notification at all will be charged a full fee.

Concerns

If you have any concerns or would like clarification about any aspect of the counselling process, please discuss this with your counsellor.

My signature below indicates that I have read the above, had an opportunity to discuss it with the psychotherapist/counsellor, and had my questions answered to my satisfaction.

Parent / Guardian Consent (Children under 16):