Common Questions
FAQ
At Garden of Wellness Psychotherapy, we understand that starting therapy can bring up many questions. Below, we’ve compiled answers to some of the most common inquiries. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, please feel free to reach out to us directly.
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between a registered healthcare professional and a client, aimed at improving mental health and well-being. Through talk therapy, we work together to bring about positive changes in your thinking, feelings, behaviour, and social functioning, which at the onset of therapy, adversely affects their daily lives, relationships, or ability to enjoy life. In Ontario, psychotherapy is a controlled act, under the Regulated Health Professions Act (1991), ensuring that only authorized healthcare professionals provide this service.
How do I get started?
You can begin by contacting our clinical director, Carli, or reaching out directly to any of our therapists. We also offer confidential online booking through the Jane App, allowing you to schedule or re-book sessions at your convenience. Many clients choose to set up recurring sessions at a frequency that works for them, or re-book at the end of a session or via email.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we offer a free 15-20 minute consultation to help you determine if our services are a good fit for your needs. This is an opportunity to discuss your concerns, ask questions, and get a sense of how we work together.
What can I expect in my first session?
Your first session will be a gentle introduction to the therapeutic process. We’ll discuss what brings you to therapy, explore your goals, and begin to build a trusting relationship. You can expect a calm, judgment-free space where you can talk at your own pace.
Is therapy confidential?
Absolutely! Your privacy is very important to us, and we will not share your information without your consent. There are some situations where we are legally required to share information to keep you or others safe:
-
Vulnerable Individuals: If there are reasonable grounds to suspect abuse or neglect involving children, older adults, or others at higher risk.
-
Risk of Serious Harm: If you or someone else may be seriously harmed.
-
Legal Requirements: If a court, tribunal, or authorized investigation requires disclosure.
-
Emergencies: If you are incapacitated and someone needs to be contacted for your safety.
-
Investigations: If disclosure is required for a lawful inspection or investigation.
We will always discuss these limits with you, and your therapist will make every attempt to involve you in the process.
What should I bring to my sessions?
Bring anything that helps you feel comfortable and supported. This might include water, a journal, a blanket, stuffed animal, or a fidget toy. Some clients also bring snacks if they have back-to-back commitments. If you have specific needs, feel free to discuss them with your therapist.
Please note we ask that you don’t bring alcohol, cannabis, or other mood-altering substances to your sessions. If you arrive impaired, ethically we will need to reschedule the appointment, as these substances can affect your ability to fully engage and reduce the effectiveness of therapy.
How long is a therapy session?
Each therapy session is 50 minutes of face-to-face time, with an additional 10 minutes between sessions for clinical documentation as required by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.
Do I need a referral to begin therapy?
No, you do not need a referral to start therapy with us. You can reach out directly to schedule an appointment.
What if I've tried therapy before and didn't connect with my previous therapist?
It’s completely normal to seek a better fit. We take an integrative, client-centered approach, tailoring our methods to meet your unique needs. If you’re interested, we can incorporate aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, or other modalities to support your healing journey.
How much does psychotherapy cost, and is it covered by insurance?
Psychotherapy sessions are private-pay, but many clients can submit receipts to their insurance provider for partial coverage. While psychotherapy is not covered by OHIP, we’re happy to provide receipts and answer questions about insurance or payment options.
I am new to online therapy. Is it safe? What should I expect?
Online therapy (or telemental health) is often more accessible for clients, especially those with scheduling constraints, children at home, mobility concerns, or lack of personal transportation. Online therapy allows clients to access their therapy during lunch breaks or in the comfort and safety of their own spaces.
We ask that you ensure your environment feels safe, private, and secure. Of course, we understand when clients need to do their session from their car or feel comfortable going for a walk or sitting in a park. Each person’s comfort level is different, and we trust you to establish that level of safety for yourself. We want to ask that you please minimize or silence all distractions during your session.
We use a telemental health platform that is PHIPA* and PIPEDA** compliant, password-protected devices, private and secure internet, and cybersecurity software on all devices within our internet network. Your therapist also has a private and secure home office.
As always, there are risks to virtual spaces, but we take every precaution to mitigate these risks and encourage you to also use password-protected devices, private and secure internet connections, and cybersecurity software on the devices you connect with.
Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA)* of Ontario, Canada
The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)** of Canadian law
How is my information protected, and can I choose what to share?
All personal health information is stored securely according to College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario standards.
You are never required to discuss anything you’re not ready to talk about, and your therapist will work with you at a pace that feels safe and comfortable.
Scheduling, cancellations, and session availability
Sessions can be booked online or via email, and recurring appointments are available for convenience. If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide advance notice so we can accommodate your needs and offer the slot to another client. Session times are flexible and scheduled based on your availability.
Garden of Wellness Psychotherapy
GWP is a team of like-hearted therapists offering trauma-informed, identity-affirming, and relational care to clients across Ontario and Canada.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, burnout, grief, identity exploration, trauma, or just feeling disconnected from yourself: you're welcome here.
🪴 Rooted in connection. Growing through healing.
Registration Credentials
GWP is a team of Registered Psychotherapists and RP (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO).
Clinical Director:
Carli Cristofari, RP (CRPO #11353)

