Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. Here, you will find answers to some of the most common questions received from clients. If you have a question that is not answered here, please don't hesitate to reach out. 

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Q: How to book a session and what are my next steps?

A:To schedule a therapy session, please reach out via email to rileypickettcounselling@gmail.com. Kindly allow up to 24 hours for a response. Once your request is received and confirmed, you will be sent necessary forms to complete and sign before your initial session. Additionally, you will receive a link to create a secure client profile. This profile allows you to conveniently book future sessions, access invoices and receipts, and actively engage in virtual therapy. I am committed to providing support at every step of your journey. If you have any questions or require assistance during the onboarding process, please don't hesitate to reach out. I look forward to working together towards your well-being.

 

Q: What type of therapy do you provide?
A: In my practice, I offer individual virtual therapy sessions that are tailored to meet the unique needs and challenges of each client. I employ a diverse range of therapeutic approaches to ensure a holistic and effective treatment experience.

Therapeutic Approaches may include:

1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based approach focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, helping clients develop healthier cognitive habits and behaviors.

2. Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT): Incorporating elements of mindfulness and acceptance, DBT is particularly useful for individuals struggling with emotional regulation and interpersonal difficulties.

3. Solution Focused Therapy: Emphasizing solutions rather than problems, this approach is goal-oriented and helps clients envision a positive future and develop the necessary steps to achieve it.

4. Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT): With a focus on emotional intelligence and understanding, EFT helps clients explore and manage their emotions, fostering deeper connections and self-awareness.

5. Existentialism: For those grappling with questions of purpose and meaning, existential therapy encourages exploration of one's values and beliefs, helping individuals find direction and fulfillment.

6. Family Therapy: Recognizing the impact of family dynamics on an individual's well-being, family therapy explores and addresses relational patterns and communication styles.

 

Q: Is virtual therapy confidential?
A:Yes, virtual therapy is designed to be confidential, just like traditional in-person therapy. Therapists who provide virtual therapy are typically bound by the same ethical and legal standards regarding client confidentiality as those in face-to-face setting's. In order to maintain confidentiality during virtual therapy sessions, it's essential to use secure and encrypted platforms for communication. Many therapists use PHIPA-compliant video conferencing tools or other secure telehealth platforms to ensure the privacy and confidentiality of the sessions. The PHIPA compliant service that we will be using is through OWL Practice, a Canadian based company that uses bank level encryption (SSL) to keep all information safe, along with video conferencing. A link to see security and compliance of OWL can be found here: https://faq.owlpractice.ca/security-compliance#security. Additionally, therapists often advise clients to participate in sessions from a private and quiet location to minimize the risk of others overhearing the conversation. It's crucial for both the therapist and the client to prioritize confidentiality to create a safe and trusting therapeutic environment. Always discuss confidentiality measures with your therapist to ensure you are both on the same page and feel comfortable with the chosen virtual platform.

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Q: What is Confidentiality?

A:Confidentiality refers to the ethical and legal duty of professionals, such as therapists or healthcare providers, to keep information shared by a client or patient private and secure. This commitment is crucial in building trust between the individual seeking services and the professional providing them.

Key aspects of confidentiality in a therapeutic context include:

1. Privacy: Therapists are responsible for creating a private and secure environment where clients feel safe to disclose personal and sensitive information.

2. Protection of Information: Therapists are obligated to take measures to safeguard the confidentiality of client information. This includes using secure communication channels and storing records in a secure manner.

3. Informed Consent: Before therapy begins, therapists typically discuss the limits of confidentiality with clients, explaining when and how confidentiality may be breached. This can include situations where there is a risk of harm to the client or others.

4. Legal and Ethical Standards: Therapists adhere to legal and ethical standards that govern the profession. For example, mental health professionals often follow guidelines outlined in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States.

5. Collaborative Decision-Making: In some cases, therapists may consult with other professionals, such as supervisors or colleagues, to ensure the well-being of the client. However, this is done with the utmost respect for privacy and only as necessary.

It's important for clients to have a clear understanding of the limits of confidentiality and to feel comfortable discussing any concerns they may have about privacy with their therapist. Open communication about confidentiality helps build a trusting therapeutic relationship and ensures that individuals can share their thoughts and feelings without fear of unauthorized disclosure.

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Q: How many sessions do I need?

A:The number of therapy sessions a person may need can vary widely and depends on various factors, including the individual's specific concerns, the severity of their issues, their goals for therapy, and how quickly progress is made. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Here are some considerations:

1. Short-Term vs. Long-Term Therapy:

   • Short-Term Therapy: Some individuals may benefit from a brief intervention to address a specific issue or learn specific coping skills. Short-term therapy might involve a few sessions or several weeks of focused work.

   • Long-Term Therapy: Others may require or choose longer-term therapy for more complex or ongoing concerns. Long-term therapy can extend for months or even years, depending on the nature of the issues being addressed.

2. Type and Complexity of Concerns:

   • Mild or Situational Issues: If someone is seeking therapy for a relatively mild or situational concern, they may find relief in a few sessions.

   • Chronic or Complex Issues: More chronic or complex issues, such as longstanding mental health conditions or deep-seated relational patterns, may require more extended and ongoing therapy.

3. Personal Goals:​

   • Personal Growth and Development: Some individuals may engage in therapy as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery, and they may continue for an extended period to explore various aspects of their lives.

4. Therapeutic Approach:

   • Type of Therapy: Different therapeutic modalities may have different recommended durations. For example, some types of therapy, like solution-focused therapy, are designed to be relatively brief, while others, such as psychodynamic therapy, may involve a longer-term commitment.

5. Individual Progress:

   • Pacing of Progress: The speed at which an individual makes progress can vary. Some may experience significant improvement in a short period, while others may require more time to see changes.

It's important for individuals and their therapists to collaboratively assess progress and discuss the anticipated duration of therapy. Regular check-ins and open communication about goals and expectations can help guide the decision-making process regarding the number and frequency of therapy sessions. Ultimately, the duration of therapy is a highly individualized aspect of the therapeutic process.

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Q: Can you bill my insurance directly?

A: I do not bill insurance directly. Clients are responsible for checking with their insurance provider to determine the extent of their coverage for therapy services. All payments are to be made via e-transfer at the conclusion of each session. Clients will be provided with an invoice detailing the service provided. Once payment is received, a receipt will be issued, which clients can then submit to their insurance company for potential reimbursement. It is the client's responsibility to understand and comply with their insurance provider's policies and procedures related to reimbursement for out-of-network mental health services.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or require further clarification regarding this billing and payment policy.