What happens in the consultation?

Our 30-min consultations are meant for you and your counsellor to get to know each other better. Here, your counsellor will introduce themselves and provide a safe and confidential space for you to express your concerns and the reasons why you came for counselling. You may share as little or as much information as you feel comfortable with. Together, you will identify the goals you wish to achieve from counselling. You will then have the opportunity to ask any additional questions you have, which may include: questions about the therapy process, the counselor’s experience, or how the sessions will progress. At the end of the session, you can decide whether you’d like to continue full sessions with your counsellor. You do not need to decide right away. Remember, it’s your journey and you can move forward at your own pace.

What do I need to do to prepare?

Preparing for your consultation will make you feel less nervous and help you get the most out of your session. It would be a good idea to reflect on the reasons why you want to go to counselling and identify any goals you’d like to achieve.

Counselling requires a certain degree of openness and honesty. It’s important to note that you will get the best results out of your session if you are transparent. The counsellor is here to help and support you, and never to judge you.

Lastly, you may think of some questions you’d like to ask your counsellor, such as their experience, their therapy approach and/or their availability.

Remember, the consultation is often just an introduction. You may not dive deeply into your concerns right away, but it is an important and courageous step towards your future sessions.

Can I only get sliding scale therapy with the Qualifying Counsellors?

Yes. Currently, we are only offering sliding scale therapy with our Qualifying Counsellors.

Do you do direct billing?

Yes, we do for most insurance companies. Please let us know which insurance company you are with beforehand so that we can ensure direct billing is available.

How soon can I start?

As soon as you let us know your availability, we can book you in for the next available slot. This can range from one day to one week.

Are qualifying counsellors covered under my benefits?

Yes, since they work under Tricia-Kay Williams’ supervision, you should be covered. However, please check with your insurance company that you are covered under Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC). We also recommend getting as much information as possible regarding your coverage when speaking with your insurance company.

How do I qualify for sliding scale therapy?

Anyone qualifies when receiving therapy from our Qualifying Counsellors.

Can I choose my counsellor?

Yes, by indicating your preferred counsellor on the intake form, which you will receive from our administrator

Therapy is too expensive for me. How can I receive low-cost or free counselling?

We have a couple of options for you. Please email admin@metacounselling.com for more information.

I do not directly bill insurance providers. I accept payment upfront and issue you an electronic receipt that you can use for reimbursement from your health insurance provider. I’d recommend asking these questions to your insurance provider to help determine your benefits:

Does my health insurance plan include mental health benefits?
Does it cover Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCC)?
Do I have a deductible? If so, what is it and have I met it yet?
Does my plan limit how many sessions per calendar year I can have? If so, what is the limit?
Do I need written approval from my primary care physician in order for services to be covered?

Payment

I accept cash and all major credit cards as forms of payment. I also accept payment via e-transfer.

Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to attend a session, please make sure you cancel at least 24 hours beforehand. Otherwise, you will be charged for the full rate of the session.