Caregiver involvement is considered thoughtfully and collaboratively.The College of Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO) does not recognize a minimum age of consent to healthcare in Ontario. However, practically, children under 12 are less likely to have the capacity to consent to treatment, while many people over the age of 12 are capable of consenting to their own psychotherapy.Therefore, the level of involvement depends on the age of the child or teen and what is clinically appropriate, while respecting the young person’s autonomy and privacy.

The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) recognizes that there is no minimum age of consent to healthcare in Ontario. A young person may consent to their own counselling when they are capable of understanding and appreciating the nature and consequences of the treatment. Capacity is considered on an individual, case-by-case basis.CRPO notes that, as a practical matter, children under 12 are less likely to have the capacity to consent to treatment, while many young people above the age of 12 are capable of consenting to their own psychotherapy. Age alone, however, does not determine capacity.When a person is capable of providing their own consent, they are the sole client. Their privacy, autonomy, and right to participate in decisions about their care will be respected.ConfidentialityConfidentiality is an important part of creating a trusting therapeutic relationship. All clients, including young people, need a space where they can speak openly without worrying that everything they share will automatically be communicated to their loved ones, parents or caregivers.For this reason, information discussed in counselling will not routinely be shared with parents or caregivers without the client's knowledge and consent.Parents and caregivers remain an important part of a young person's support system. When appropriate and with the client's consent, I may collaborate with caregivers around general treatment goals, ways to support the young person, and other information the client is comfortable sharing.Parents and caregivers should not expect a session-by-session account of what their child discusses in counselling.Limits of ConfidentialityIn accordance with the standards of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and applicable Ontario privacy legislation, information shared in counselling will be kept confidential except where disclosure is required or permitted by law.Limits to confidentiality may include circumstances where:There is a serious and imminent risk of harm to the client or another person.There are reasonable grounds to believe that a child or youth may be in need of protection.Disclosure is required by law, such as through a court order or other legal authority.Disclosure is necessary for certain professional, regulatory, or legal obligations.The client provides consent to share information with another person or service.When disclosure is necessary, I will make reasonable efforts to discuss this with the client beforehand whenever possible and appropriate, and will disclose only the information that is necessary for the purpose.Questions about confidentiality or its limits are always welcome. I want every client to understand how their privacy is protected before counselling begins.

Psychotherapy services provided by a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) are often eligible for reimbursement through extended health insurance plans. Many clients experience no issues with coverage, though plans vary. Receipts are provided for reimbursement, and clients are encouraged to confirm the specifics of their coverage directly with their insurance provider.

A minimum of 24 hours notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice, or missed without notice, may be charged the full session fee. Exceptions may be made at therapist discretion in cases of emergency.

As a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), I do not provide formal psychological or psychiatric diagnoses. My work follows the standards of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and diagnosis is typically completed by psychologists, psychological associates, physicians, or psychiatrists. I can, however, conduct clinical assessments, use standardized screening measures, support treatment planning, and help connect you with an appropriate professional if a formal diagnosis is needed.

You are welcome to bring whatever feels important to you. Some clients come with a clear focus, while others are still figuring out what they want support with. Therapy can hold both.

I offer virtual psychotherapy sessions, with the option of in-person sessions for clients in Hamilton, ON. This can be discussed during the introductory consultation to determine what feels like the best fit.

Standard sessions are 60 minutes or 90 minutes. However, the frequency of sessions can fluctuate based on the needs and goals of the client. This is something that we can discuss collaboratively.