Therapy FAQs

Psychotherapy, or “talk therapy,” is a really effective and commonly prescribed method of treatment for mild to moderate cases of mental and emotional distress. Research shows that most people who participate in the psychotherapy process experience a significant improvement in their feelings and ability to cope with life’s difficult times.

Most clients who come to see me, report feeling ‘stuck’, ‘overwhelmed’, ‘angry’, ‘frustrated’ or ‘frightened’ as the result of unwanted emotions or experiences. Often after suffering persistent feelings of sadness, overpowering anxiety or loneliness, workplace difficulties, the loss of a job, sexual problems, a divorce, or the death of a loved one, people seek my help.

The conversations that we will have, lead to a process of personal discovery and exploration which helps to eliminate or control troubling and painful symptoms so that you can return to normal functioning. Our work together can be used to help you overcome a specific problem or to stimulate overall emotional growth and healing. In regularly scheduled 60 minute sessions-you will work with me to identify, learn to manage, and, ultimately, overcome emotional or mental difficulties.

Many people with emotional problems avoid seeking help because they may not recognize that their symptoms are a sign of an illness such as depression, or because they feel embarrassed or fearful that “someone will find out” and that there might be negative consequences at school, work, or home, or because they fear they may lack adequate health insurance coverage. The relationship we have is similar to the one you have with your doctor. Anything you say to me stays between us. My services are completely confidential and are generally covered by your extended health care plan.

That depends upon the issue that you are attempting to resolve. Some clients come to see me two or three times, others decide to continue for longer. Therapy is not a procedure done TO you, but rather a PROCESS in which we work together on your issues. It requires concentration, energy, and commitment by both parties. Most of my clients complete psychotherapy in 12 or fewer sessions, especially for behavior-specific problems.

None of my clients have chosen to lie on the couch, however there is one available if you felt like it!

There are several types of psychotherapy available, and except for a few exceptions for specific conditions, no one type is “better” than any other. In my practice, our choice of therapies depends upon your issues and your circumstances. However, the best predictor for successful psychotherapy is how comfortable YOU feel with the therapist, and whether or not you feel that you can develop a warm and trusting professional relationship.

In my practice, I only utilize empirically researched and proven therapies. You will find my professional style to be very active in the sessions. I give lots of feedback and will ask you a lot of questions to make sure that I have a complete understanding of your life and the context in which your problems are occurring. Therapy can be emotional, but I will not allow you to become overwhelmed. Ultimately, my office will be a safe place where you can explore difficult feelings at your own pace, with my complete support and guidance.

No. While I have had people bring sleeping infants to sessions, older children may distract both of us from the focus of the session. As well, the content of psychotherapy sessions may be inappropriate for children. It is best to schedule a session when your children are in school or being cared for by someone else.

Maybe. It depends upon the issue(s) that you have been dealing with. For example, it would be highly appropriate for both members of a couple to attend if you are seeking therapy for marital or parenting issues. However, sometimes it would be more helpful for each person to have their own individual therapist.

Yes. I have many gay and lesbian clients.

Not really. Over the years I have provided therapy to a wide variety of clients each one with their own unique situation. However, I feel that people suffering from eating disorders and drug/alcohol addiction are generally better served by a referral to a specialized program. (ie.the Center for Addiction and Mental Health or Sheena’s Place, in Toronto.)

Yes, I provide psychotherapy in both English and French.

For current hours, please refer to our Facebook Page. 

Please call for current fees and coverage details. We accept payment by Credit Card, PayPal, Cheque or Cash.

Unfortunately, psychotherapy and psychological services are NOT covered by OHIP. However, my services ARE covered by most extended health care plans. (If you are covered under extended healthcare for Psychological Services with a Registered Clinical Psychologist, you will be covered to see Susan Reed)