During the first counselling session, we will explore the basics of how therapy works and important considerations such as confidentiality. Most importantly, we discuss what brings you to therapy, learn more about you, your mental health, and your history, and figure out what you would like to get out of attending therapy.

Confidentiality is an essential element of counselling; it is the foundation upon which you can feel secure in opening up and being vulnerable with your therapist. There are, however, some limits to confidentiality and it is your right as a client to know and understand them. Firstly, if you discuss that you are at risk of imminently harming yourself or someone else, your therapist is obligated by law to appropriately report this in order to help keep everyone safe. Secondly, if you discuss that a child (someone under the age of eighteen) or a vulnerable /or elderly person is being abused or neglected, everyone in Ontario is obligated by law to report this. Finally, if a therapist is subpoenaed by the courts, the therapist must provide documents or testimony which are court-ordered.

The time for each appointment is set aside for you and only you. Should you miss a scheduled appointment, the regular session fee will be charged. If you need to cancel an appointment,  24 hours notice is required in order to fill the appointment spot and avoid being charged a late cancellation / no show fee. We do realize there may be unaccounted emergencies that may cause you to not attend your appointment. Please inform your therapist and considerations may be made to waive the fee.

We can direct bill Medavie Blue Cross and Sunlife. For all other plans, we will provide receipts with all of the relevant information for you to submit to your insurance provider.  

Sessions are typically scheduled for 50-60 minutes in length. Generally, the appointment time is 50 minutes and the last ten minutes is used for scheduling future appointments, taking payment, and time spent by your therapist documenting the details of the appointment.  

Finding a good match between you and your therapist is important. If you are considering booking with a therapist at Cosmos Counselling you are invited to schedule a 15-minute free phone consult to discuss what you are looking for help with and how we might be able to help or suggest an alternate referral.

Payment is due at the end of each session and can be made by e-transfer or online credit card processing through the Jane app. 

Check with your insurance company to clarify your coverage prior to treatment.