How do I start?
You can either email me at judygould@rogers.com or call me at 416-465-4225. I will any questions you have and then if you would like to go ahead we can set up an appointment. During this session you can see if what I offer is the best fit for you and I can be sure that what I offer addresses your concerns.
How often do I need to go to therapy?
Most clients and therapists find that one 50 minute session per week can yield excellent results. Though some clients prefer to schedule appointments two times per month it generally takes longer to achieve results. I suggest meeting weekly to begin so that we can develop our relationship and get to the emotional heart of the work.
How does therapy work?
Therapy appears to the observer like a discussion between the client and the therapist where mostly the client is talking. What is also happening is that they are developing a relationship which according to much research is the most important aspect of the therapeutic process. That is why it is essential to work with a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and who makes you feel understood. Over time, as your trust becomes established you can use this relationship to re-pattern difficult emotional experiences in your past and/or current life. Feeling safe to share your life experiences is the key to making satisfying changes.
How effective is psychotherapy?
Working with a psychotherapist can help you to improve relationships, feel better about yourself, understand the ways in which you organize what happened/happens to you, improve the way you communicate, learn how to respond to life’s situations instead of reacting emotionally to them, and feel less fragmented and more integrated. For individuals with depression, talk therapy combined with antidepressant therapy is associated with a higher improvement rate than antidepressant therapy alone.
Will my therapist give me advice or tell me what to do?
Psychotherapists try not to offer advice. They might offer some piece of education such as how to incorporate relaxation techniques into daily life but I have found that the best answers arise from the client after working through his/her/their various options with me.
When do I know I am finished therapy?
When you feel neutral about seeing your therapist or find you have nothing further to work through.
What is relational psychotherapy?
Relational therapists recognize that what many people struggle with concerns difficulties in current or past relationships. Relational therapy offers the opportunity to re-pattern and repair problematic relationships through the process of deep listening and empathy.
Do you have a sliding fee scale?
I do offer a sliding scale (reduced rate) for individuals only but my sliding scale spots are currently full.
Are your fees covered by insurance?
I am a Registered Psychotherapist. Many insurance companies cover Registered Psychotherapists. Please check your insurance coverage before we meet. The form of psychotherapy that I offer is not insured by the OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan).