FAQ

 LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning) inclusive care involves a commitment to providing treatment and support that is sensitive to the needs and experiences of gender and sexually-diverse individuals, their families, and communities. This type of care involves creating a welcoming and supportive environment for LGBTQ clients, and providing care that is informed by an understanding of the specific health concerns and disparities that LGBTQ people may face.

One important aspect of LGBTQ+ inclusive care is using language and terminology that is respectful and affirming. This includes using preferred and validating names and pronouns, and avoiding assumptions about an individual’s sexual or gender identity. It is also important to provide a safe and confidential space for LGBTQ patients to discuss their health concerns and experiences.

Advocacy is another important component to LGBTQ+ inclusive care. We support clients by sharing community resources for gender and sexually-diverse clients, making support recommendations to teachers and schools that promote safety and inclusivity, and by promoting advocacy efforts in the community.

An initial phone consultation usually takes around 10-15 minutes in which we discuss the services we offer, how we can personalize our approach to meet your unique needs, and it gives you a chance to ask questions (i.e., how to get started, what to expect from initial therapy sessions, the steps to completing assessments). There is no fee for an initial consultation, and no obligation to move forward with us in any way. We are happy to help you make the decision that's right for you going forward. 

Research shows that virtual therapy—also known as teletherapy—is as effective as in-person sessions for many mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related difficulties – to name a few. 

Notably, virtual therapy offers advantages such as improved accessibility, flexibility, and convenience. Clients can attend from the comfort of their homes, remove geographic and transportation barriers, and often access care quicker due to reduced wait times. Satisfaction rates and completion rates in virtual therapy can be even higher than in person for some individuals because of those factors. 

To bridge the gap between virtual and in-person work, we enhance our online sessions with interactive tools like screen sharing, collaborative note-taking, and real-time digital activities. These elements help make therapy meaningful and enriching. 

 A career assessment is a structured process designed to help individuals discover which jobs or career paths align best with their personality, strengths, values, interests, beliefs, and previous experiences:

• It begins with an initial intake form to gather background information.
• This is followed by a comprehensive testing and interview session, where clients discuss their career goals, review educational and work history, and complete computerized tests that evaluate their personality style, interests, values, and attitudes toward work.
• Afterward, clients receive detailed feedback. This includes a personalized list of specific jobs that match their traits and interests, along with access to job databases for deeper exploration.
• Clients then independently investigate these potential job options, considering factors such as job descriptions, required qualifications, salary expectations, and alignment with personal values.
• Finally, a follow-up session is held to review findings, discuss next steps, and develop strategies to overcome any obstacles identified.

Our career assessment process is active and participant-driven; it identifies suitable career options and empowers individuals to plan practical steps toward achieving their professional goals.

  An ADHD assessment is a thorough evaluation conducted by a psychologist to determine whether someone meets the criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. The process involves a series of sessions that include discussing consent and the overall approach, gathering detailed information from the individual and an observer about behaviour, attention, and executive functioning, and reviewing past school records and childhood history to gain a complete understanding of the individual’s experiences. 

The psychologist analyzes this information to identify patterns and symptoms consistent with ADHD. A diagnostic interview is conducted to explore symptoms, clarify the diagnosis, and importantly, to rule out other potential causes, such as anxiety or mood disorders, which can present with similar symptoms to ADHD. If needed, a detailed written report is prepared, outlining the findings, recommendations, and strategies for managing ADHD. 

Some individuals also receive a more concise letter to share with healthcare providers. A final session may be offered to review the results, answer questions, and discuss next steps, including possible accommodations or strategies for support at school, work, or home. Throughout the process, the assessment is tailored to each person’s unique needs and circumstances, ensuring a supportive and responsive experience.