Fees & What to Expect

This page provides information about fees, what to expect in therapy, insurance options and clinic policies. The goal is to help you feel informed and prepared as you consider therapy with Michelle.

Rates & Payment

Therapy Fees

Individual Therapy and Couples Therapy

50-minute session — $200

75-minute session — $300

Longer sessions are available upon request or may be recommended when additional time would be beneficial to the therapeutic process.

 

Insurance & Direct Billing

Michelle offers direct billing for eligible Blue Cross plans where possible. Coverage varies between insurance providers and individual policies, and clients are responsible for confirming their psychotherapy benefits and coverage limits directly with their insurance provider.

A valid credit card is required to be kept on file and will be charged for any portion of the session fee not covered by insurance. For clients using other insurance providers, or when direct billing is not available, payment is due at the time of service and a receipt will be provided for reimbursement purposes.

Cancellations & Rescheduling

A minimum of 24 hours’ notice is requested for appointment cancellations or rescheduling whenever possible. This allows the appointment time to be offered to another client who may be waiting for support.

Late cancellation and no-show fees are not charged. This is an intentional choice grounded in values of accessibility, compassion and the understanding that unexpected circumstances can arise.

At the same time, appointment times are reserved specifically for each client. Repeated late cancellations or missed appointments can affect the continuity of therapy and the availability of appointments for others. If this becomes a recurring pattern, a conversation may be needed about ongoing scheduling and whether therapy remains the right fit at that time.

After Your Consultation

If you decide to move forward, Britt, our Practice Manager, will help you get started. This includes setting up your client file, providing intake and consent forms, assisting with client portal access, and scheduling your first appointment.

This onboarding process typically takes approximately 10 minutes and can be completed by phone or email, depending on your preference.

How Therapy Begins

The first session is an opportunity to begin developing a shared understanding of what brings you to therapy and what you hope to gain from the process. Together, we will explore your current concerns, relevant experiences, relationships, strengths and goals for therapy.

For couples therapy, the assessment process begins with an individual session with each partner, followed by a couples session and a second couples session. This approach allows Michelle to gain a deeper understanding of each partner’s experiences, the relationship dynamics and the goals for therapy. By the second couples session, Michelle will share her understanding of the relationship, offer a preliminary case conceptualization and collaborate with you on a plan for the work ahead.

There is no expectation to share everything at once. The initial sessions are designed to create a foundation for meaningful and effective therapeutic work.

Confidentiality & Privacy

Confidentiality is a foundational part of psychotherapy. Information shared in therapy is kept private and confidential in accordance with professional standards, ethical obligations, and applicable privacy legislation, including Nova Scotia’s Personal Health Information Act (PHIA), Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA), and Canada’s Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

There are limits to confidentiality, and information may be disclosed in specific circumstances, including:

  • If there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others
  • If there is suspected abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable person
  • If records are required through a subpoena
  • If disclosure is otherwise required by law

These limits are reviewed in greater detail as part of the informed consent process. Questions about confidentiality are always welcome, as transparency and clarity are important to fostering safety and trust within the therapeutic relationship.

Questions, Concerns or Feedback

Open communication is an important part of effective therapy. If you have questions, concerns, or feedback about your experience, you are encouraged to discuss them directly. At times, misunderstandings or ruptures can occur within any therapeutic relationship. When addressed openly, these conversations can often lead to greater understanding, repair, and trust.

If you are unable or uncomfortable raising a concern directly, you have the right to contact the appropriate regulatory body:

These organizations oversee professional standards and can provide information about the process for addressing concerns or submitting a formal complaint.

Crisis & Emergency Support

Michelle does not provide emergency or crisis services. Therapy is intended to support clients during scheduled appointments, and it may not be possible to respond to urgent concerns between sessions.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, are concerned about your safety or the safety of others, or require immediate support, please access one of the following resources:

  • Call 911
  • Contact the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text 9-8-8, available 24/7)
  • Contact your local crisis service
  • Go to your nearest emergency department

Part of the therapeutic process may also include identifying supports and resources that can be accessed between sessions should additional support be needed.

BOOK A CONSULTATION

How Can Michelle Help?

Beginning Is Often the Hardest Part

Beginning therapy is a meaningful step. Questions are always welcome.

Book a Consultation