Everyone experiences difficulties from time to time. For the most part, we are able to successfully navigate the challenges we face in life. But there are some challenges that we might struggle with. Some life challenges or stresses persist and impact negatively on different areas of our lives over extended periods of time. When a problem situation continues to impact negatively on one’s life, in spite of all of one’s efforts to manage the situation, it is worth considering seeking help. The experience of persistent feelings of discouragement, guilt, emotional distress, despair, anxiety, irritation or anger are some of the signs that psychological help might be warranted.

The duration of psychotherapy will vary as a function of the complexity of a client’s problem profile. Simple problems can often be resolved within a few weeks, more complex problems can take longer. After an initial assessment, it is possible to give a client an estimate of the anticipated duration of treatment.

Private sector psychological services are not covered by Provincial Medicare plans. However, private sector psychological services are covered by most extended heath care plans (e.g, Sunlife, Manulife, Blue Cross, and others). Plans vary with respect to coverage so clients should verify the conditions of their policy before pursuing psychotherapy. Clients are provided with official receipts they can use for reimbursement purposes.

There is no easy answer to this question. Several different types of psychotherapies have been shown to be effective for a range of problems. Many therapists will combine elements of different psychotherapies in a manner that is best suited for the treatment of a client’s problem profile.

Your sessions will be held on an application called Microsoft Teams. This is a video-teleconferencing application that can be used on a cell phone, tablet or computer. If you do not have Microsoft Teams on your electronic device, you can download it for free from the Microsoft website. If possible, you should do this before your first session.

Our office will send you a message reminding you of your scheduled appointment(s). The message will contain a link that will automatically launch Microsoft Teams and connect you with your therapist at the scheduled time of your session.

As much as possible, you should try to ensure that you will be in a quiet, private room during your online session. It is also important to try to minimize the possibility of interruptions (e.g., other people, phone calls) in the space where you will be attending your session.

To maximize privacy, you might consider using earphones or a headset during your sessions so that others nearby cannot hear the content of the interaction between you and your therapist.

All of Dr. Sullivan’s services are provided online using Microsoft Teams. If you are planning to book an appointment with Dr. Sullivan, please ensure that you have downloaded and installed Microsoft Teams on the device (phone, tablet, computer) that you are planning to use during meetings.

Once you have set up your account, you will be able to use the scheduling feature of the website to set up your appointments at your convenience. Cancellation fees will be applied if an appointment is cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled appointment.

Psychotherapy services are billed on an hourly rate and are based on the service provided. Sessions are 50 minutes long. Fees are paid at the end of each session by e-transfer or credit card. The costs of psychological services are covered by many extended health care plans. Contractual payment arrangements can be made with businesses or organizations. For more information, please contact us.

Up to 24 hours before your scheduled appointment you can re-schedule to a time that is more convenient for you.

You will be charged the full session fee if you are unable to provide at least 24 hours notice of a change, a cancellation or you miss your scheduled appointment.

A late arrival for your appointment will shorten the length of your session. If you arrive more than 30 minutes late you will not be able to meet with your therapist, and you will be charged the full session fee for a missed appointment.