Services
I work with an array of emotional and behavioural issues, providing services to children and adults. In an open-minded and supportive atmosphere, we can explore parts of the past and present so that together we can identify where you want to go and what is making it challenging to get there. It is important to me to maintain a counseling space that offers self-exploration through discussion, listening, reflection, creative exercises, play, and helpful outside resources (e.g., books, videos, audio, meditations, local resources).
Does what we talk about remain confidential?
Successful counseling requires a high level of trust and openness. At the beginning of counseling, I provide a written copy of my confidential disclosure agreement, wherein we can discuss any questions you might have and the details. You can expect that what you discuss in session will not be shared with anyone. This is called “Informed Consent”. I do seek supervision with a licensed clinical psychologist, and thus she will be the only other person reviewing my counseling notes.
Sometimes, you may also want your counselor to share information or give an update to someone on your healthcare team, but by law your counselor cannot release this information without obtaining your written permission.
Law and professional ethics require counselors to maintain confidentiality except for the following situations:
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Suspected child abuse or dependent adult/ elder abuse, for which I am required by law to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
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If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s), I must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
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If a client intends to harm himself or herself, I will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If they do not cooperate, I will take further measures without their permission that are provided to me by law in order to ensure their safety.
Common Questions
What is counseling like?
Counseling is a unique situation, so it is totally natural for it to feel strange or uncomfortable at first. Our first meetings are a chance for us to get to know each other better, and for me to understand whatever's concerning you, to collaborate on goals or hopes, and to assess for your strengths and supports.
Counseling with me will be a space where you can come to hear your thoughts out loud, feel genuinely listened to and acknowledged without judgment, and release some of the weight that has been bogging down your heart and mind.
Depending on your specific needs, counseling can be short-term, for a specific issue, or longer-term, to deal with more difficult patterns or your desire for more personal development. Either way, it is most common to schedule regular sessions with your counselor (usually weekly). It is important to state that it is proven that the client's active participation in the process and eagerness/openness to making changes is one of the leading factors in getting successful counseling results.
What would counseling be like for my child/adolescent?
It is natural for us to take a few sessions to get to know each other and start to build a base of safety and trust. Children often learn best through exploratory play, offering a variety of learning experiences at their level of ability, modelling hoped for behaviours, and of course strengthening relationships that are important for them. My approach with young people will depend on the concern, but I incorporate several different interventions from active listening, positive psychology, and cognitive behavioural therapy to play, art, and psychoeducation. Parent/guardian involvement when working with children/adolescents is very valuable and shown to support progress. As counseling is usually a once a week meeting, progress is more likely to be made if the parent(s)/guardian(s) can assist their child in using the skills and strategies they are learning in counseling during the remainder of the week. At times the counseling might involve a guardian figure joining in, as these relationships are extremely important, and in this case we can discuss further.
Fees? Insurance? Cancellations?
Initially, I offer a free 15-20 minute consultation with new clients. Counseling is a big emotional and financial commitment, and the right relationship makes a big difference in outcomes. So, it is important that you find the counselor that engages with you best.
My standard fee for a 50-minute session is CHF 170. Depending on availability, I can negotiate a lower rate fee for students, unemployed individuals, and low-income individuals.
As an independent practice, all bills will need to be settled directly with me as I am not panelled with any insurance companies. A detailed invoice will be sent at the end of each month, with which you can check with your insurance if they will cover out of network services. To determine if you have mental health coverage through your insurance carrier, the first thing you should do is call them.