Frequently Asked Questions
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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What kind of services do you provide, and to who? We offer individual counselling to individuals ages 12 years and older of all identities, relationship counselling to all relationship types, and family therapy to families and like units or relationships within these units.
Do I need a referral to access your services? No, you do not need a referral for our counselling services. While referrals are accepted from professionals, agencies, and organizations, it is not necessary. If you would like additional information, please e-mail your inquiries to info@heartseasetherapy.com. Please allow up to 48 hours for a response.
I am from a ministry/agency/organization. How do I go about referring a client to your practice? If you would like to refer a client for counselling services, please complete the referral form found at the bottom of this page to the best of your ability and forward it to info@heartseasetherapy.com. We will confirm receipt of the referral via e-mail and follow up with you if clarification is needed, then reach out to the individual, family contact, or other unit contact within 48 hours.
What are your confidentiality and dual relationships policies? Every effort is made to maintain client confidentiality. Only if subpoenaed or in extenuating circumstances might we need to disclose client information to appropriate others. Otherwise, all details of our relationship and sessions remain entirely confidential, even from partners, family members, and agencies/organizations. We do not accept friend or contact requests over social media or engage socially with clients outside of the therapeutic space. You can learn more information about confidentiality and other committments by checking out our Service Agreement documents at the bottom of this page.
Do you provide assessments, or can you diagnose? Screenings may be completed to identify areas of concern, best therapeutic or treatment options, and to measure client change. We do not submit these to any third parties. We are not eligible to provide diagnoses, but we can help point you in the right direction if a diagnosis is necessary or desired.
Is there a limit to our time together? There is no session limit to our services. You may choose to stay as little or as long as you would like. We only ask that, when the time comes to say goodbye, that you give us advanced notice so that we can equip you with additional resources.
What does your approach look like in a session? We use a client-centred approach to counselling, which means that we provide individualized support based on the needs and comfort of the individual, relationship unit, or family unit. This might look different for each and every client. We will maintain and encourage curiosity throughout your session to deepen our exploration of you, all in the safety of the therapeutic space, with the guidance of your therapist, and with your wellbeing as priority.
What can I expect the first time we meet? Confidentiality, consent, and intake information will be reviewed at the beginning of the first session. Discussion may arise from these. Consider this session one during which the therapist will learn a bit more about you, what brings you to therapy, and in what ways they can help. This is your opportunity to get to know your therapist, as well.
What are your expectations of me during this process? Other than respect for our time and accountability for payments, we do not expect anything from you. Come as you are, in the attire of your choice, hairstyle of your preference, and in whatever emotional state. We care about you as a person, the rest does not matter.
Do you direct bill to insurance companies? No, we do not direct bill to insurance providers at this time. You will receive a receipt after your session, which you may use to submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. Most providers cover counselling services provided by a Registered Social Worker (R.S.W). Uncovered amounts may also be used as a medical expense tax credit in many provinces. A growing number of providers are now accepting services provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor (C.C.C.), as well. Please check eligibility and coverage with your provider.
Do you direct bill to funders? This depends on the funder and funder-counsellor agreement in place. At this time, Ariel Brown, B.A., M.A., C.C.C. is able to direct bill to Victims Services. Please reach out to info@heartseasetherapy.com if you would like to inquire about counselling services, funding coverage, or direct billing setup.
How do you accept payment and when is it due? We require that all clients place a credit card on file to ensure timely payment and to avoid disruption of services; however, you and your counsellor may agree to other payment arrangements. Cash (in person only) and e-transfer payments to info@heartseasetherapy.com must be received in full by the end of your session, or payment will be charged to your credit card.
A minimum of 24 hours’ notice of appointment change or cancellation is required for a full refund. Changes or cancellations within 24 hours of the appointment start time and no-shows are subject to a non-refundable, non-transferable full session fee. Appointment bookings, changes, and cancellations can be completed on our online appointment management system or, if within the 24 hour window, requests can be sent to your therapist by e-mail. The time tag of the e-mail will be used to determine which cancellation and refund rules apply.
What should I do if I feel a disconnect with or am not engaging with my therapist? The therapist-client relationship is crucial to the therapy process. If you feel like there is something affecting that relationship, please let us know and we will do our best to help resolve the issue. If the disconnect feels too significant to continue, we would be happy to provide you with other resources. Your safety and wellbeing is our ultimate priority.
I have specific questions or would like more information. How do I contact you? We offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation so that you can ask questions or clarify information you need to determine if we are the right fit for you. Please contact your preferred therapist directly to arrange your free consultation. We do our best to respond to inquiries within 48 hours.