Frequently Asked Questions

What is Therapy and How Does it Help?

Therapy is a supportive, confidential space where you can talk with a trained mental health professional about what you’re going through. It can help you better understand your emotions, relationships, patterns, and life experiences, while also building tools to cope with stress, anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges.

Most people come to therapy not because something is “wrong,” but because something feels heavy, stuck, or overwhelming, and they want support in moving through it in a healthier way.

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How Do I Know If I Need Therapy?

You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many people seek support when they notice things like:

Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally exhausted

Struggling in relationships or communication

Feeling stuck in repeating patterns

Difficulty managing stress or emotions

Going through life transitions, grief, or change

Wanting to better understand themselves

If something in your life feels persistently heavy or hard to manage on your own, therapy can help.

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What Happens in a First Therapy Session?

The first session is focused on getting to know you and understanding what brings you in. Your therapist will ask about what you’re currently experiencing, your goals for therapy, and any relevant background that helps guide the work. You’re also welcome to ask questions so you can get a sense of whether it feels like a good fit.

You don’t need to prepare anything in advance—many people simply come as they are and begin where they feel most comfortable.

In the first session, your therapist will also review important information such as confidentiality, informed consent, fees, and how therapy works. This is to ensure you feel informed, safe, and clear about what to expect from the therapeutic process.

This conversation is meant to be supportive and collaborative, not formal or overwhelming. It’s an opportunity to make sure you feel comfortable with the structure of therapy and with your therapist.

Most importantly, the first session is about helping you feel heard and understood, and beginning to clarify what kind of support will be most helpful for you moving forward.

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Is Therapy Private and Confidential?

Yes. Therapy is confidential, meaning what you share with your therapist is kept private and protected.

Information discussed in therapy sessions is not shared with others without your consent. This is a core part of creating a safe and trusting space where you can speak openly and honestly.

There are a few important legal and ethical exceptions to confidentiality. These include situations where there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or someone else, concerns about the safety or well-being of a child or vulnerable person, or if records are required by a court order or legal process.

Your therapist will review these limits with you in your first session so you fully understand how your privacy is protected and when confidentiality may need to be broken.

In addition to confidentiality, therapists are required to follow strict privacy and record-keeping practices. This includes securely storing clinical notes and protecting your personal information in accordance with Ontario health privacy standards.

Most importantly, confidentiality is designed to support a sense of safety and trust in therapy, so you can explore what you need without fear of judgment or unnecessary disclosure.

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Do I Need a Referral to Start Therapy in Ontario?

No, you do not need a referral to begin therapy in Ontario. You can book directly with a therapist at any time, whether you are seeking support for yourself, your relationship, or your family.

We offer virtual online therapy Ontario-wide, making it easy to access care from anywhere in the province without needing to go through a doctor or other healthcare provider first. This includes online individual therapy, couples therapy, andfamily therapy in Ontario, as well as in-person sessions in Kincardine.

Many people choose to start therapy because they are experiencing stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or simply feel ready for support and personal growth. Therapy is a self-directed service, meaning you are able to reach out directly when it feels right for you.

If you are unsure about where to start, you are also welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered therapist to ask questions and explore whether therapy feels like a good fit.

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What Are Your Therapy Fees and Do You Offer Insurance Receipts?

At Attuned Therapy + Wellness, we are committed to providing transparent and accessible pricing for psychotherapy services in Ontario, including both in-person therapy in Kincardine and virtual online therapy across Ontario.

Because our clinicians are independent practitioners, each therapist sets their own rate based on their training, experience, and specialization. You will always see the exact fee clearly listed on our secure online booking platform before scheduling your appointment.

Therapy Fees

Individual Therapy (Adults): $150–$165 per 60-minute session (no tax)

Couples & Family Therapy: $180–$195 per 60-minute session (no tax)

We provide detailed insurance receipts by email after each session, which can be submitted to your extended health benefits provider for reimbursement. Many clients are able to use their coverage to offset the cost of therapy.

We encourage clients to check directly with their insurance provider prior to booking to confirm coverage for services provided by regulated professionals, including:

Registered Social Workers (OCSWSSW)

Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO)

Registered Nurse Psychotherapists (where applicable)

Most extended health plans in Ontario—including providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Canada Life, and Green Shield Canada—offer coverage for these services, but eligibility varies depending on your specific plan.

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What Is Your Cancellation & No-Show Policy?

We understand that life is unpredictable, and unexpected events, including illness or emergencies, may arise. We aim to be as flexible as possible while also maintaining fairness and consistency for all clients.

When you book a therapy session—whether in-person in Kincardine or online therapy across Ontario—that time is reserved specifically for you. Consistency in attendance is an important part of the therapeutic process, as regular sessions support meaningful progress and continuity of care.

For this reason, we require the full session fee for missed appointments or cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice, including no-shows or late cancellations, as it is often not possible to offer that time to another client on short notice.

If you are feeling unwell but still able to attend, we are happy to offer the option to switch your in-person session to a virtual or phone session when appropriate. In these cases, please email your therapist directly as soon as possible so we can make the necessary arrangements.

In situations involving illness or unexpected circumstances, we encourage clients to reach out as early as possible. Therapists will use their professional discretion on a case-by-case basis, particularly in situations involving emergencies or extenuating circumstances.

This policy helps ensure:

Consistency of care, supporting steady progress in therapy

Access for other clients who may be waiting for support

Respect for reserved clinical time, as each session is held specifically for you

Please note that cancellation fees are typically not covered by insurance, as they reflect reserved clinical time rather than active therapy services.

If you need to reschedule, we encourage you to do so as early as possible. This allows us to accommodate your needs, offer the time to another client, and help you maintain momentum in your therapeutic work.

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Should I Come in for In-Person Therapy or Choose Virtual Therapy?

 

We offer both in-person therapy in Kincardine, Ontario and secure virtual therapy across Ontario and the Grey-Bruce region, including nearby communities such as Port Elgin, Southampton, Goderich, Owen Sound, Walkerton, and surrounding areas.

Both in-person and online therapy can be equally effective. The best option often depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and what feels most comfortable and accessible for you. In-person therapy in Kincardine may feel supportive if you prefer being in a dedicated space outside of your home, value face-to-face connection, or find it easier to focus in a physical setting.

Virtual therapy in Ontario is a great option if you are looking for flexibility, reduced travel time, or the convenience of accessing therapy from home. Many clients across Grey-Bruce choose online therapy to fit sessions more easily into busy schedules, parenting demands, or work commitments.

Some clients also choose a blend of both in-person and virtual sessions, depending on what works best week to week.

If you are unsure which option is right for you, you are welcome to book a free 15-minute consultation with a registered therapist to talk through your needs and find the best fit for your situation.