Understanding the past to heal the present and lead to lasting change.
About Me
I am a registered psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and hold a Master of Arts Degree in Counselling Psychology. I bring 15 years of experience as a therapist working with teens and adults in various settings. Additionally, I am a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with nearly 20 years in nursing. While my healthcare knowledge informs my practice, I do not diagnose conditions or prescribe medications in this therapeutic context.
I believe that culture, gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexuality, social class and ability to name a few, have huge impacts on mental health and we want to talk about it as it makes sense for you.
The Therapy Process
The initial sessions focus on getting to know you and collaboratively determining therapy goals. These goals may evolve over time, but they provide valuable direction for our work together.
We may identify skills or capacities you wish to develop, or areas of your life that need processing and healing. While I guide and support you with my professional expertise, you remain in control of your therapeutic journey and determine what feels comfortable for you.
For optimal results, I encourage you to remain engaged with our therapeutic work between sessions.
My Therapeutic Approach
My goal is to guide you through a process that will promote deep, lasting change, rather than a quick solution. I offer an eclectic person-centred approach tailored to each client's unique needs. My practice is trauma-informed, drawing extensively from attachment theory and family-of-origin therapy. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and frequently incorporate narrative and emotion-focused therapy techniques.
Beyond specific methodologies, I believe our therapeutic relationship is the foundation of effective therapy. My commitment is to provide unconditional positive regard and create a non-judgmental space where you feel safe and seen.
Rates
All appointments are currently conducted virtually through video on the Jane App.
While there are inherent risks in using technology for confidential interactions, I take measures to protect your privacy:
Using the secure Jane App designed for health professionals
Maintaining secure, password-protected internet and computer
Performing regular software updates
Working from a secure, private location
By entering into a virtual therapeutic relationship, I trust that you have access to reliable technology and are in a safe, private location during our sessions.
If we lose internet connection during a session, I will call you at the number provided on your intake form to continue by phone or reschedule as appropriate.
If I become concerned for your safety during a session, I reserve the right to contact emergency services and send them to your location. For this reason, I will confirm your exact location at the beginning of each session.
FAQs
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Therapy can evoke uncomfortable feelings such as sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or fear. We often explore challenging aspects of your life, which may trigger difficult memories during or between sessions. As you grow and change, your relationships may also transform, which can be challenging.
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Despite these risks, the benefits of therapy typically outweigh the challenges. Clients who commit to the therapeutic process often experience:
Long-term reduction in emotional distress
Increased self-awareness
Greater satisfaction in relationships
Improved coping abilities
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All information shared with me remains confidential except under the following circumstances:
If I assess you are at risk of harming yourself or someone else
If I learn of a child or vulnerable adult being harmed by you or anyone else
If I am legally mandated by the court to release your records
If I learn that a regulated health professional is harming a patient/client
While I meet CRPO standards for independent practice, I regularly engage in clinical supervision to continually enhance my knowledge and ensure optimal client care. This may involve sharing case information with a supervisor, though your identifying information is always protected.
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I am required to maintain session notes that include: appointment dates and times, brief topic overviews, interventions used, and any homework suggestions.
You may request copies of your records at any time (fees may apply) and have the right to request corrections to any perceived errors in your file.
I must retain your records for 10 years after our final session, or 10 years after your 18th birthday if you are under 18. Your file is stored electronically in a secure database that complies with the Personal Health Information Protection Act Standards (2004).
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You have the right to:
Ask questions at any time
Let me know if something isn't working for you
Request different therapeutic approaches
Be referred to another therapist if you feel we're not a good fit
Contact the CRPO with any concerns
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Please provide at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations to avoid a $50 fee. If I need to cancel with less than 24 hours' notice, I will offer a complimentary make-up session.
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The best way to reach me is via email at walshpsychotherapy@gmail.com. Please allow 48-72 hours for a response as this is a part-time practice. Do not send confidential information via email, as it's not a secure channel.
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Please do not contact me via email or phone in emergencies. As this is a part-time practice, I may not access communications promptly. In case of emergency, contact your healthcare provider or call 911.
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Appointments are scheduled at the end of each session or via email.
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I do not offer direct billing to insurance providers but will provide you with a receipt for reimbursement claims.