Sessions, Fees & What to Expect in Therapy
Beginning therapy often comes with practical questions about session fees, insurance coverage, and what the first session may look like. This section outlines those details so you can feel informed and comfortable as you take the next step toward emotional well-being, personal growth, and more fulfilling relationships.
Rates & Payment
Individual Therapy
50-minute session — $200
Couples / Relationship Therapy
50-minute session — $200
Payment is processed at the time of each session unless other arrangements have been made in advance.
Insurance
Michelle offers direct billing to Blue Cross where possible. Coverage varies between insurance providers and individual plans, so it is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider to confirm that psychotherapy services and Michelle’s fees are covered under your policy. A valid credit card must be kept on file to cover any portion of the session fee not covered by insurance. A receipt will be issued for you to submit for reimbursement if your plan requires it.
STARTING THERAPY
What to Expect in Your First Session
Beginning therapy can bring a mix of curiosity, hope, uncertainty, and sometimes apprehension. Michelle’s goal in the first session is to create a grounded, respectful, and collaborative space where you can begin to share what feels most important.
During the first session, the conversation may focus on:
- What has brought you to therapy at this time
- What you are hoping for, even if it still feels unclear
- Relevant background information that helps Michelle understand you more fully
FIND A PALCE TO BEGIN
A Conversation at Your Pace
There is no expectation that you arrive knowing exactly what to say or where to begin. You are welcome to move at your own pace. Some people find it helpful to talk freely, while others prefer more structure or gentle guidance. The process will take shape together.
Michelle may ask questions, offer reflections, and check in with how the session is feeling for you. The first session is also an opportunity for you to get a sense of whether working together feels like a good fit.
Therapy is a collaborative process. You are always welcome to ask questions, share feedback, or name what you need along the way.
Cancellation Policy
Michelle asks for a minimum of 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling of appointments. This notice allows the session time to be offered to another client who may be waiting for support.
Michelle does not charge late cancellation or no-show fees. This is an intentional choice grounded in her values around accessibility, compassion, and the understanding that life happens.
At the same time, therapy time is reserved specifically for you. Repeated late cancellations or missed sessions can disrupt the continuity of the work and limit Michelle’s ability to maintain availability for other clients. If this becomes a pattern, a conversation may be needed about whether ongoing scheduling continues to be the best fit at that time.
Confidentiality
Confidentiality is a foundational part of psychotherapy. Information shared in therapy is kept private and confidential in accordance with professional standards and legal requirements.
There are limits to confidentiality, and Michelle may be required to disclose information in specific circumstances, including:
- If there is a risk of serious harm to you or to others
- If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child or a vulnerable person
- If records are required by a court order or subpoena
- If disclosure is otherwise required by law
These limits are reviewed more fully as part of the informed consent process. If you have questions about confidentiality at any time, Michelle encourages you to ask, as transparency and clarity are important in creating safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship.
Concerns or Complaints
If you have questions, concerns, or feedback about your therapy, Michelle encourages you to raise them directly so they can be addressed together. Open communication is an important part of ethical and effective therapeutic work.
At times, misunderstandings or ruptures in the therapeutic relationship can occur. For example, you may feel misunderstood, experience a comment as uncomfortable, or feel that something important was missed. These moments are a natural part of relational work and, when addressed openly, can often be repaired in ways that deepen trust and strengthen the therapeutic relationship.
If you are unable or uncomfortable raising a concern directly, you have the right to contact Michelle’s regulatory bodies:
- College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) – www.crpo.ca
- Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT) – www.nscct.ca
These regulatory bodies oversee professional standards and provide information about the process for submitting a concern or complaint.
Emergency and Crisis Support
Michelle does not provide emergency or crisis services. Therapy is intended to support you during scheduled sessions, and it is not possible to respond to urgent concerns outside of those times.
At times, emotional distress can intensify quickly. This can be part of the human experience, particularly when people are navigating significant stress, loss, trauma, or major life transitions. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, thoughts of harming yourself or others, or feel unable to keep yourself safe, it is important to seek immediate support.
In these situations, please call 911, contact your local crisis line, or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Email and routine appointment scheduling are not appropriate ways to seek urgent help.
Part of the therapeutic process may also include discussing a personal safety or support plan, identifying resources and supports you can access if things feel overwhelming between sessions.
Additional Ontario Support Resources
If you need immediate or additional support outside of therapy sessions, the following resources are available across Canada:
988 Suicide Crisis Helpline
Call or text 988
Available 24/7 across Canada for anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide, emotional distress, or concern for someone else.
Talk Suicide Canada
Phone: 1-833-456-4566
Text: 45645 (evenings)
National suicide prevention and support services available across Canada.
Kids Help Phone
Phone: 1-800-668-6868
Text: CONNECT to 686868
24/7 support for children, youth, and young adults across Canada.
211 Canada
Dial 211 or visit www.211.ca
A free, confidential service connecting individuals to local mental health, social, and community supports across Canada.
These resources are available whether or not you are currently in therapy and can provide support during times when additional help may be needed.
GROUNDED IN CARE
Honouring Who You Are
Michelle looks forward to hearing your story and supporting you in creating a life and relationships where you feel seen, heard, and deeply connected.