Rates & Benefits
Session Fees
Free 15-minute consultation. Fees for standard 50-minute sessions are $160 for individuals and $185 for couples. Services provided by a Registered Social Worker are exempt from GST/HST. Payment can be made by e-transfer or credit card.
Sliding Scale
It is an unfortunate reality that the meaningful benefits of therapy are simply too expensive for many. I am committed to doing what I can to remove barriers and increase accessibility and offer sliding scale rates based on individual circumstances. Please connect with me to discuss options.
Insurance Benefits
Most insurance companies that provide extended health benefits offer coverage for counselling services. Insurance providers who may cover counselling services include Blue Cross, Canada Life, Green Shield, Manulife, Sun Life, and others. To check if you’re covered, review your policy and/or contact your HR department or insurance provider to see if your plan covers counselling or therapy provided by a Registered Social Worker (RSW) or a professional who holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. When you pay for a session, I will provide you with a paid invoice that includes all the information you’ll need to submit a claim.
First Responders
In 2016, Ontario amended the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act to recognize that Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an occupational hazard for first responders. As such, first responders are eligible for provincial assistance to support the costs associated with psychotherapy and to have their WSIB claims expedited. For more information, see the WSIB page here and/or contact your employer.
Victims of Crime
Victims of recent crimes may be eligible for support for counselling services through the Victim Quick Response Program (VQRP+). I am an approved VQRP+ therapist and would be happy to assist with navigating the application process. For more information about the program, see the Victim Services of Waterloo Region website here.
Students
Students at institutions in Waterloo Region may have some coverage for counselling and psychotherapy services.
Plans at Conestoga College cover 70% of the cost up to $300 per policy year. For more information click here.
Plans at the University of Waterloo cover 80% of the cost up to $800 per calendar year. More information for undergraduates can be found here and for graduate students here.
Plans at Wilfrid Laurier University for undergraduates cover 80% of the cost up to $1000 per policy year while plans for graduate students cover 60% of the cost up to $400 per policy year. More information for undergraduates can be found here and for graduate students here.
If you have questions about your student benefits, please contact your school directly.
Tax Benefits
Social Workers are recognized as authorized medical practitioners by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the purposes of the medical expense tax credit. As such, any out-of-pocket expenses for counselling and psychotherapy services provided by a Registered Social Worker (RSW) can be submitted as medical expenses when you file your taxes. Please see the CRA website for further information.