Frequently Asked Questions

​I’m so glad you asked! I’ve been a practicing psychotherapist for over 22 years. I earned my degree from Bradley University in Illinois and have worked with individuals, couples, and families in both community settings and private practice. Over the years, I’ve completed extensive training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which deeply aligns with my passion for attachment science. While I’ve explored many therapeutic models, none have influenced me as profoundly as Sue Johnson’s work with EFT.

Not at all! I offer traditional talk therapy in a cozy office inside my barn or in a screened-in porch overlooking paddocks. About 85% of my clients enjoy the natural setting—it's peaceful and grounding. Horses can be a meaningful part of therapy, helping you slow down and connect more deeply with yourself, but it's your choice. We can involve the horses as much or as little as you'd like. I also have dogs who can join us for a walk or curl up in the office—whatever feels supportive for you.

I’m a trauma-informed therapist with a strong foundation in attachment work. My approach is rooted in Emotionally Focused Therapy and deeply influenced by Brené Brown’s research on shame resilience, as well as principles from Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy. At the heart of my work is the belief that all behavior makes sense-it’s usually a reflection of both our past experiences and our present circumstances.

Over time, we internalize messages from the world and from ourselves that make it hard to show up fully and authentically. To stay safe, we often develop protective strategies—or “armor up.” While these defenses may serve us in the moment, they can also leave us feeling disconnected, unseen, and overly sensitive to the people and situations around us.

If you’re curious, there’s more about my approach and philosophy throughout my website—feel free to take a look around!

I'm a registered member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario, the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, the International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and the Toronto Centre for Emotionally Focused Therapy. I supervise multiple clinicians (Helpful Resources Section), so if I don't seem to be a good fit for you, feel free to check them out.

This is a common question! My rate is $195 per hour — and good news: HST is no longer required by the government.

Many insurance plans do cover services provided by a Registered Psychotherapist, but coverage can vary, so it's best to check directly with your provider.

I'm also a registered provider with NIHB.

Direct billing is available through TELUS and Blue Cross (though there have been some hiccups with this in the past).

My greatest strengths are my curiosity and deep trust in the goodness of people. I believe most of us are doing our best with the tools and experiences we have. Over the past 22 years, I've worked with many individuals and believe all behavior makes sense when we understand the context. My goal is to help you feel grounded, connected, and understood. However, I don't treat eating disorders or psychosis, and I don't offer relationship therapy where abuse is present. For children under 12, I work in collaboration with a caregiver. I also offer clinical supervision and have been developing clinicians since 2015.

Yes, evening sessions are available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and Saturday sessions can be booked between 10:00 AM and 1:30 PM. Booking in advance helps secure your preferred time. Virtual sessions are also available for added flexibility.

I always come to sessions with ideas and suggestions, but ultimately, the direction we take is up to you. I’ll offer support through curiosity, thoughtful observations, and insight, but the space is yours to focus on what matters most to you.

Most sessions take place in my cozy office inside the barn, but depending on the weather-and your preference-we might go for a walk in the forest or groom a horse while we talk. At times, we may work with a horse in the arena or paddock to explore ideas like curiosity, emotional safety, or making generous assumptions-things that often emerge naturally when connecting with animals.

Grounded in attachment theory, our work together will center on understanding, validating, and making sense of your experiences and emotions. Each session is uniquely shaped by your goals and who’s in the room. In couples therapy, we often focus on recognizing and shifting painful patterns of disconnection, working toward new ways of reaching for one another and building secure, connected relationships.

For children under 12, I only work with them alongside their family or at least one caregiver. Think about it-when you were that age, would you have wanted to talk to a stranger once a week, or would you have preferred your whole family to grow and change alongside you?

We usually meet weekly, as regular sessions often lead to quicker positive changes. However, the pace is entirely up to you. You can book a consistent time each week or adjust as needed through my online portal. The duration of therapy varies based on your goals and support system. Many individuals find 8–12 weekly sessions sufficient, while couples may see lasting changes within about 12 weeks if trauma isn't a central factor. Group therapy sessions, which may include horses, can also affect the duration and frequency of our meetings.

Great question! I offer a free consultation call, and I highly recommend taking advantage of it. It’s a chance for us to connect and see if we’re a good fit. You’re welcome to ask questions and share a bit about what’s bringing you in. If it feels like a match on both sides, I’ll get you set up in my online portal, send over a few forms, and you’ll be able to book your first session. You can schedule the consult using the “Book Now” button—just make sure to click “Sign In” first.

If you already know you're ready to begin and want to skip the consultation, feel free to email me directly, and I’ll get things started for you.

I’m currently accepting new clients and usually have openings within a week or two. I try to keep more appointment spots available than I have active clients, so booking stays flexible and easy.

Please book sessions you intend to attend. Here's the cancellation policy: Individual/Couple/Family/Horse Integrated Sessions: - More than 24 hours' notice: No charge. - Less than 24 hours but more than 1 hour notice: 60% of the session fee. - Less than 1 hour notice or no-show: Full session fee. Intensives: - 72 hours notice required to cancel without charge. - Less than 24 hours notice: Full fee. Clinical Supervision: - Full fee if not rearranged with supervisor and dyadic partner. Group Events: - Full payment due at registration or 3 weeks before the event; $100 non-refundable fee. - If cancelled with less than a week's notice, no refund is available. Virtual sessions offer more flexibility.