What to expect
You don’t need to know exactly what to say.
Taking the first step toward therapy can feel unfamiliar. Here’s how getting started works, so you know what’s coming.
- 01
Reach out
Book a free consultation online or call 613-413-8311. If you’d rather start with a message, the contact form works too.
- 02
Have a free consultation
A relaxed 15-minute call by phone or video. Ask questions, share a little about what’s bringing you in, and get a sense of whether Nick is the right fit. There’s no commitment.
- 03
Your first session
Beforehand, you’ll receive a short intake form and consent information to review. In the session itself, you’ll talk about what’s going on, what you’d like to be different, and how you might work on it. You decide how much you share.
- 04
Moving forward
From there, sessions are usually weekly or every other week to start. You’ll check in together about what’s helping and adjust as you go.
The practical details
Fees, insurance and the fine print.
- Consultation
- Free · 15 minBy phone or video, with no commitment.
- Sessions
- 50 minutesIn person in Durham Region, or virtual anywhere in Ontario.
- Fees
- $ amount / sessionReceipts are provided after every session.
- Insurance
- Many plans cover itCheck with your provider for coverage of a Registered Psychotherapist (RP).
- OHIP
- Not coveredPsychotherapy in private practice isn’t covered by OHIP.
- Referral
- Not requiredSome insurance plans ask for one, so it’s worth checking yours.
- Payment
- e.g. card or e-Transfer
- Cancellations
- e.g. 24 hours’ noticeLife happens. Just let Nick know as early as you can.
Do I need to know what’s wrong before I start?
No. Many men start with a general sense that something isn’t right. Figuring out what’s going on is part of the work, not something you need to have done beforehand.
I’ve never done therapy. What’s it actually like?
It’s a conversation. You talk, Nick listens and asks questions, and over time you start making sense of things together. There’s no script to follow and no judgment about what you bring in.
Is what I say confidential?
Yes. What you share stays between you and Nick, with a few exceptions required by law, such as a serious risk of harm to you or someone else, or a child who may be at risk. These limits are explained before you begin.
Is therapy covered by insurance?
Many extended health plans cover services from a Registered Psychotherapist (RP). Coverage varies, so check with your provider to see what your plan includes. You’ll receive a receipt after every session to submit.
Is virtual therapy as effective as in person?
For many people, yes. Virtual sessions take place over a secure, private video platform. Some men find it easier to open up from their own space, while others prefer being in the room. You can choose what works for you, and switch if your needs change.
My partner thinks I should go. Is that a good enough reason?
It’s a good enough reason to start a conversation. Therapy tends to work best when it’s something you choose for yourself, so a free consultation is a low-pressure way to see whether it makes sense for you.
How long will I need to be in therapy?
It depends on what you’re working on and what you want. Some men come for a handful of sessions around a specific issue, while others prefer longer-term work. You stay in control of that decision, and you’ll revisit it together along the way.
What if it doesn’t feel like the right fit?
That’s important to know, and it’s okay to say so. Fit matters in therapy. If it isn’t right, Nick can help point you toward other options.
Elevate is not a crisis service. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911. For 24/7 support, call or text 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline.
Get started
Ready to take the next step?
Reaching out is a place to start. A free consultation is a chance to ask questions and see whether working together feels right, with no pressure and no commitment.
