Frequently Asked Questions
How do we begin? Generally, a phone call or on-line meeting is a great way to gather and share information before booking an initial appointment. Please feel welcome to contact me to inquire about a free 20 minute consultation at therapy@miriamschacter.com
What age range are your clients? My scope of practice includes working with adults age 18 or older.
What is your booking cancellation or change policy? I require 48-hour notice of cancellation or session time change unless due to severe illness or emergency (self, family, pets). Clients have the options of requesting a phone session or an on-line session (during their scheduled time) or covering payment. In case of emergency or conflict, please stay in dialogue and let's see what is possible.
What are your fees? Individual Therapy is $118.58 (plus HST $15.42) which totals $134.00/hour. I have a number of sliding scale spaces; however, these space are currently filled. Couples Therapy is $187.17 (plus HST) which totals $211.50 /1.5 hours.
Coverage: Many private insurance firms or plans provided by colleges/universities cover sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist. Please inquire with your HR department or college about direct or indirect payments. If your insurance firm requires that I register directly with them, please let me know.
The Canada Revenue Agency: The CRA recognizes the cost of services provided by Registered Psychotherapists as a medical expense eligible for tax credit. Please note that professional therapeutic associations and colleges are currently advocating on our behalf to exempt services provided by a registered psychotherapist from HST.
Is there any more information I should know? Therapists often meet with their clients once a week or on alternate weeks for an hour. Scheduling your time wisely or mindfully can create a useful, consistent and "present" therapeutic experience.
Within the first few weeks, you may wish to share an agenda or a "time-line of impactful dates" - these are memories or events (both good and not good) that you feel have impacted your life. It not necessary to know what you are going to say each session. Dream-work, movement, artwork and worksheets (Sensorimotor, IFS, DBT, CBT) are always welcome. Anything you decide to disclose is confidential, with a few exceptions related to safety and abuse or the law. Both short-term (12-sessions) or long-term therapy can be beneficial for different reasons. If you have questions, let's talk.
How do I book sessions? Before or during your intake meeting, I will send you a link to set up your "Jane App" account (Jane App is my/our on-line, Chrome-based, scheduler). As a current client with a regular booking day/time, you may cancel or change your session day/time with 48-hours notice via Jane App. Current clients who frequently travel for work or do shift work (medical, first responders, service industry) are also encouraged to book in independently on Mondays at 11:30am or 12:45. Please ask Miriam for the link if you do not have it set up after our intake session.