A: If you have extended health benefits, you will likely be able to get reimbursed for my services. My services are supervised by a Registered Psychologist who provides a receipt for insurance purposes. Please note that I have a Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology and am associated with the practice of a Registered Psychologist.

A: I have extensive experience working with a wide range of client issues (like depression, anxiety, parenting, grief and loss, stress and coping, job transition, pain management, marital problems, cultural adjustment, gay and lesbian issues), but also have the special skills required to work effectively with Eating Disorders and with Creative Personalities - two unique groups with special needs. Please read about her in "Your Counsellor". Many clients also find my training in career counselling and planning helpful regardless of their area of interest.

A: Some clients who are out of town and not able to find a good practitioner in their area may benefit from phone services. While it may be more difficult to establish a counselling relationship on the phone, it may still be helpful for clients who feel we are a good "match". If you are interested in phone services, please call and we will discuss your concerns to determine if phone counselling would be suitable. Payment for phone sessions happens up front, through electronic transfer of funds (through email, the most quick) or my mailing a cheque. Appointment are offered several evenings and on weekends, Toronto time.

A: From time to time when case-load permits, I may take cases that require assistance in their fees. Most of the time, since this is a private service, I am not able to subsidize client fees. Clients may be referred to public services that are able to do that. Most people have insurance through extended health benefits that will cover some of my services. Please call.

A: Sessions can range from one-time as a consultancy-type service, to long-term. Sessions are based on client needs. The aim is to work towards goals and to terminate when clients are ready. I believe most clients benefit from at least a weekly session.

A: Yes, I accept children and teens and have experience with effective child and adolescent therapies. However, I am not set up for child-focused therapy (play toys, sand tray etc.).

A: As a certified clinical counsellor I abide by all the rules of the Canadian Counselling Association and the guidelines of the B.C. Association of Clinical Counsellors. Everything is strictly confidential within legal and ethical limits to confidentiality. Confidentiality is always discussed at the first session. Email is not secure, therefor please do not send confidential email.

A: Professional review of a case times time and requires an adequate examination of history. I regret that I am not able to offer time and professional services for free. If you require more than 3-5 minutes over the phone, please call to request a phone consultation after reviewing the Counselling Services, Supervision and Workshops page for fee information. The first intake session usually requires extra time that is not billed to clients.

A: I was employed as a Mental Health Psychologist with the government and I have taught Family Education and Consultation at UBC. I have experience with a wide range of family problems. As such I am well prepared to do effective work with couples and families.

A: A doctor's referral is not necessary, but I can not work with weight deprived clients who are not being seen by a physician. At a client's request I can work in tandem with nutritionists, medical doctors, etc. I can not see clients who are seeing another counsellor or a psychologist at the same time. I work in collaboration with a Naturopath with whom I have a great relationship, if clients feel they would benefit. From time to time, doctors like to get a progress note if they have referred a client. If you provide written consent to this, I am happy to stay in contact with your physician.