Frequently Asked Questions

Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between a client and a trained therapist, aimed at exploring thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and patterns that are causing distress or preventing you from living the life you want. It's different from advice-giving or coaching; therapy helps you develop insight, build skills, and create lasting change from the inside out.

If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like something in your life isn't quite right, that's enough of a reason to explore therapy. You don't need to be in crisis to benefit. Therapy can help you build skills, gain insight, improve relationships, and move toward the life you want, even when things are "just okay."

The first session is an opportunity for us to get to know each other. I'll ask questions about what brings you to therapy, a bit about your history and current life, and what you're hoping to get out of our work together. You're welcome to ask questions too, as it's a two-way conversation and you're also deciding whether I'm the right fit for you.

First sessions can sometimes feel emotionally tiring, and that's completely normal. Many people feel relieved to finally speak some of these things out loud.

In Ontario, a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) is regulated by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and is trained to provide psychotherapy. A psychologist holds a doctoral degree and may also provide testing and assessment in addition to therapy. Both are qualified to provide therapeutic support, and the key is finding someone you connect with and who has expertise in what you're looking for.

Simply fill out the contact form on the Contact page, book directly through my online booking, or send me an email at belleame.therapy@outlook.com. I'll respond within 1–2 business days to schedule a free 15-minute phone or video consultation.

My standard fee is $165 per 50-minute session. Extended sessions (75 minutes) are available for EMDR therapy or for those who prefer to have more time. The fee for these sessions is $240. I also offer shorter 30-minute check-in sessions for current clients between regular-length appointments, at $115.

Payment is collected at the end of each session, and a receipt will be provided for insurance reimbursement purposes.

I offer a limited number of sliding scale spaces for clients experiencing financial barriers. These spaces are reserved to help make therapy more accessible while keeping the practice sustainable.

If the standard fee would make it difficult for you to access therapy, please feel free to reach out and we can discuss whether a reduced-fee spot is currently available.

I ask for at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule a session. If a session is cancelled within 24 hours, a 50% late cancellation fee may apply, and the full session fee will be charged for any no-shows.

I understand that life happens, so please communicate with me as soon as possible if something comes up.

Many extended health benefit plans in Canada cover services from a Registered Psychotherapist. Coverage varies widely by plan, and I recommend checking with your benefits provider before beginning. Common questions to ask your insurer:

• Do my benefits cover Registered Psychotherapists?
• What is my annual maximum for psychotherapy?
• Do I need a referral from my doctor?
• What is my deductible or co-pay?

I am able to direct bill with select insurance providers at this time, currently Sun Life and Green Shield. Please inquire if you are interested in this option. More insurances should be available within the upcoming months.

For all other providers, payment is collected at the end of each session and I provide a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurer for reimbursement.

In Canada, fees paid to a Registered Psychotherapist may be eligible as a medical expense on your tax return. I recommend speaking with an accountant or checking the CRA website for the most current guidance.

Standard sessions are 50 minutes. Longer sessions (75 or 90 minutes) can be arranged, particularly for EMDR processing, and would be discussed in advance. I also offer 30-minute check-in sessions for current clients between their regular appointments.

Most clients begin with weekly sessions, which provides the consistency needed to build momentum and trust. As things progress, many clients move to bi-weekly, and eventually monthly for maintenance. We'll discuss the best frequency for your goals and circumstances.

Yes. I see clients in-person at my Ottawa office on Mondays, and offer secure video sessions to anyone in Ontario throughout the week. Many clients appreciate the flexibility of virtual therapy, and it's just as effective as in-person for most concerns.

I use Jane App for virtual sessions, a secure, encrypted, PHIPA-compliant platform designed specifically for healthcare. You'll receive a link before each session and can join from your browser without downloading anything.

This depends on your goals, what you're working on, and how you respond to therapy. Some people find meaningful relief in 8–12 sessions; others prefer longer-term work to explore deeper patterns. There's no right answer, and we'll discuss this regularly so you can decide what feels right for you.

Yes, with a few important exceptions required by law. Confidentiality must be broken if:

• There is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or another person
• Abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult is disclosed or suspected
• Required by a court order (subpoena)
• You disclose abuse or harassment by another healthcare professional (doctor, other therapist, etc.)

These situations are rare, and I will always discuss any concerns with you before taking action whenever possible. Your privacy is something I take extremely seriously.