Question 1

How long have you been practicing?

Accepted Answer

I’m so glad you asked! I’ve been a psychotherapist for over 23 years, earning my Master’s in Counselling from Bradley University. I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, families, and groups in both community and private practice settings. Over the years, I’ve trained in many different therapeutic models, but Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) has been the one that truly resonated with me. It’s helped me understand why people do what they do and reinforced my belief that everyone is doing the best they can with what they have. Even when things feel hopeless, EFT shows me that connection can ground us and help us get through anything—we’re not meant to go through it alone!

Question 2

Do I have to work with horses during therapy?

Accepted Answer

Not at all! I offer traditional talk therapy in a cozy office inside my barn or in a screened-in porch overlooking paddocks. Many of my clients choose to just 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.

Question 3

What type of therapy do you practice?

Accepted Answer

I’m a trauma-informed therapist with a solid foundation in attachment work. My approach is rooted in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and I’m also deeply inspired by Brené Brown’s research, along with principles from Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy. At the heart of my work is the belief that behavior makes sense—it’s usually shaped by both our past experiences and what’s going on in our lives right now.
Over time, we can internalize messages—both from the world and from ourselves—that make it hard to show up as our true selves. To protect ourselves, we often develop defenses, or "armor," that can protect us at the time. But while these defenses can help in the moment, they can also leave us feeling disconnected, unseen, and overly sensitive to the world around us.
If you're curious, feel free to explore more about my approach and philosophy on my website—there’s plenty more to learn there!

Question 4

What professional organizations are you a part of?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

How much do you charge? Are you covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

I get asked about this often! My sessions are typically an hour long, which may be different from the 50-minute sessions some clinicians offer. I charge $210 for the full 60 minutes.  I also offer sessions at different lengths, so please feel free to ask about that during your free consultation call.
I also offer groups, predominantly in the spring/summer/fall; costs vary.
Most insurance plans do cover services provided by a Registered Psychotherapist, but coverage can vary, so I always recommend checking with your provider directly.
I’m also a registered provider with NIHB, and direct billing is available through TELUS and Blue Cross, though there have been occasional hiccups with this in the past.

Question 6

What are your main strengths and focus areas?

Accepted Answer

My greatest strengths are my curiosity and deep trust in the goodness of people. I believe that people are doing our best that they can with the tools and experiences they have. Over the past 23 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. 
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.

Question 7

Can I book sessions in the evenings or on weekends?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

What is a typical session like?

Accepted Answer

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?

Question 9

How often will we meet and for how long?

Accepted Answer

While it’s not required, I (and the research) recommend weekly sessions to make the most progress. Regular sessions help build momentum, deepen insights, and create a steady space for reflection and growth. Of course, we can always adjust the frequency to fit what feels right for you and your journey. 
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 will indicate the length on the website.

Question 10

What is the next step?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

What should I know about your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

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.

Matatoa

Frequently Asked Questions