People enter therapy for a number of different reasons. Something in their life may be bothering them and causing them distress. They’d like to feel better but aren’t sure how or where to start. My areas of focus and expertise include:
- mood concerns (eg. Depression, anxiety)
- self esteem
- life and other work-related stress
- lack of satisfying relationships
- grief and loss
- feeling stuck
- struggling with negative thoughts
- adjustments to life events
- Life transitions (e.g. starting a new school, leaving home, “empty nest”, retirement, job changes)
- caregiver burden
- suicide prevention
What can I expect at our first meeting?
At first, you can expect to do a lot of the talking about your current life and the problems you are facing. We will also talk about your background and your strengths and resources. I will be asking questions to ensure that I understand. Some of my questions will be about your current situation and relationships as well as your past. At the end of the first session, it will likely be clear how we can work together. We will talk about your goals and how I can help you in that process.
Are you covered under insurance plans?
Social work and psychotherapy services are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, many people have access to extended health benefits through employee and private health insurance plans, which provide full or partial coverage for services provided by a registered social worker.
How long are sessions? How often would we meet?
Sessions are 50 minutes long. The frequency of appointments depends on your unique needs. Ideally, weekly or every other week allows us to build a strong therapeutic alliance. Research has shown that the strongest predictor of success in therapy, is the therapeutic alliance, not the theoretical orientation of the therapist.
What is your availability?
I have day time appointments available, Monday through Friday.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
No, self referrals are accepted. However, some insurance companies might require a physician’s referral in order to provide coverage. Please check with your insurance company.
I want to book an appointment; how do I do that?
You can call me at: 705-532-1665. Be sure to include:
- your name
- your phone number
- suggested times that I could call you back
Or, you can email me at krista@kristalloyd.ca . Be sure to include the information above. Please remember to limit your personal health information, as confidentiality cannot be guaranteed in electronic forms of communication.