Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about starting therapy. If you have a question that isn’t on this list, please send us an email at info@charrontherapy.com and we’ll be happy to answer!
Who can go to therapy?
Anyone can come to therapy! You don’t need a formal mental health diagnosis to come to therapy, although that is one of many reasons someone might decide to start therapy. Other reasons include major life transitions, grief, stress, parenting, relationship issues, anger, addiction, traumatic events, work life and more.
How are therapists different from psychologists and psychiatrists?
A psychotherapist is trained to help you navigate and cope with difficult thoughts, feelings, situations and behaviours. They can work with all kinds of mental health diagnoses but they cannot issue a diagnosis or prescribe medication. A psychologist can conduct diagnostic assessments, in addition to being able to provide psychotherapy, however they cannot prescribe medication. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who can provide psychotherapy, conduct diagnostic assessments and prescribe medication.
How do I get started?
There are several ways to find a therapist. You can browse websites like Psychology Today; ask your family doctor for a recommendation or go through an Employee Assistance Program offered by your employer, to name a few. Typically, you would reach out by phone or email and the therapist (or their office administrator) would reach out to help you book your first appointment. You will be asked to sign a consent form which many providers now offer electronically, so you don’t even need to print or scan anything. You can let them know if you have any booking preferences, such as in-person or virtual appointments.
Why is therapy so expensive?
Sadly, psychotherapy is not yet covered by OHIP. The cost of a session covers more than just the hour you spend with your therapist. It also covers time spent writing notes and maintaining files after the sessions, as well as the costs of mentoring/supervision, continued education and training, licenses, insurance, office rent, advertising and practice management services. If you have private insurance through your employer (or a spouse), please contact the provider directly to find out if they will reimburse at least a portion of the cost of services provided by Registered Psychotherapists.
What if I don’t have insurance?
Many are fortunate to have employers that provide health benefits that may cover a portion of the costs of therapy. However, many people must pay for sessions out of pocket. If you’re unable to afford a therapist’s regular rate, we encourage you to ask about reduced cost or “sliding scale” options. Some therapists can offer a discount to people with no private insurance coverage. At Charron Psychotherapy and Counselling, our interns offer quality psychotherapy at a reduced cost to anyone who needs it. Please email info@charrontherapy.com to find out more.
What if I don’t “click” with my therapist?
Therapists are trained to be non-judgmental and compassionate, but it doesn’t mean they’re a perfect match for everyone. If you don’t feel comfortable with your therapist for whatever reason, you can stop sessions at any time (you don’t even need to provide a reason) and request recommendations for different therapists. You’re in total control of your therapy!
How many sessions will it take before I feel better?
Therapy is an entirely personal journey and is not one-size-fits-all. Many feel some relief after the first session simply from having had an opportunity to get heavy stuff off their chest, while others take a little longer to get comfortable with the process.
What’s it like to go to therapy?
We do everything in our power to offer a comfortable and safe environment. Typically, during the first 1-4 sessions, you’ll be asked about your reasons for seeking therapy, your relevant past, your current situation and your goals for therapy. From there, your therapist will help you identify any obstacles that might be getting in your way, and introduce some skills, tools and strategies to work on in and out of session to help you get where you want to go. You can stop therapy any time and have as many sessions as you feel you need. Your therapist has a responsibility to be transparent and honest with you; if you have any doubts or difficult feelings about the process, feel free to talk about it to your therapist.
We understand that for some, deciding to start therapy can be a big decision. We consider it an honour and a privilege to accompany you, and we're here to help. If you're in need of urgent or crisis support, please call the 24/7 Ottawa Crisis Line at (613) 722-6914 or visit our resources page for more options.
Take care,
The Team at Charron Psychotherapy and Counselling