FAQ

No, you do not need a formal diagnosis to receive specialized counseling for ADHD and/or neurodiversity. Counseling can be beneficial for individuals who suspect they may have ADHD or who experience challenges related to neurodiversity, even without a formal diagnosis. A counsellor experienced in working with ADHD and neurodiversity can provide support, strategies, and insights to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. If you're unsure whether counseling is right for you, consider scheduling a consultation with a counselor who specializes in ADHD and/or neurodiversity to discuss your concerns and determine the best course of action for your needs.

Counselling is a versatile resource that you can utilize for various reasons. Whether you need someone to provide support while you work on tasks, want to celebrate achievements, or require emotional guidance, counselling can be beneficial. It's essential to find the right counsellor for you, as the therapeutic relationship is key to effective therapy.

As a guideline, the American Psychological Association suggests seeking a mental health professional if you experience feelings of hopelessness, persistent depression, self-destructive behavior like substance misuse, intense fears, sudden mood swings, thoughts of suicide, compulsive rituals, sexual difficulties, or hallucinations. However, you don't need to have these specific symptoms to benefit from counselling.

Our practice is committed to embracing and supporting neurodivergent individuals. Neurodiversity recognizes and celebrates the natural variation in human neurological development, including conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. We view these differences not as disorders but as unique characteristics to be acknowledged and respected.

Neurodiverse affirming practices involve creating inclusive environments that accommodate diverse neurological profiles. This includes acceptance and celebration of neurodivergent individuals, providing accommodations and accessibility, offering individualized support, promoting educational inclusivity, encouraging open communication, raising neurodiversity awareness, creating inclusive employment opportunities, and advocating for policy changes.

By incorporating these principles into our practice, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment that values and respects the diversity of neurological experiences.

Coaching within a therapeutic lens combines the empathetic approach of therapy with the goal-oriented focus of coaching. This approach uses therapeutic techniques to help clients explore their emotions, behaviors, and thought patterns while providing guidance and support to help them achieve their goals. It can be particularly beneficial for those seeking a blend of coaching and therapy to address personal and professional challenges.

Counselling services are not covered by MSP, the government’s provincial health care plan. They are covered by some extended benefits plans. Contact your insurance provider to see if they cover services provided by a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) or Registered Therapeutic Counsellor (RTC).

Each insurance plan is different, so please check with your provider.

We do not provide direct billing. You are responsible for payment to the clinician at the time of service. If you want to receive reimbursement through your extended benefits plan, you will be provided with a receipt to submit to your insurer.

Payment is due at the end of the appointment. Our preferred method of payments are via credit card, or etransfer

We require a minimum of 24 hours notice for all cancellations. Cancellations can be made using the booking website prior to 24 hours. If you cancel your appointment within 24 hours, you must contact the practitioner, but you will be charged the full fee and sent an invoice to your email. We prefer a credit card be put on file in case of a late cancellation or missed appointment.

Many extended health benefit plans have an annual cut-off date, which means that any unused coverage may expire at the end of the year. If you have coverage for psychological or counselling services, it's important not to let it go to waste. Now is a great time to review your plan and consider booking your sessions before your benefits expire.

While psychological and counselling services are not covered by the provincial Medical Services Plan, they may be covered or partially covered through an extended health care benefit plan provided by your employer or post-secondary institution. Coverage for psychologists and counsellors typically ranges from $500 to $2,000 per year, depending on the specific plan.

Undergraduate and graduate post-secondary students who have opted into their insurance plans may also be entitled to a certain amount of coverage per year for psychology or counselling services. For more information, contact your benefits provider or visit your undergraduate or graduate student union websites.

After payment, clients will receive a signed receipt that includes a professional registration number. This receipt can be submitted to certain employee benefit plans for potential reimbursement. To learn more about your coverage and how it may help, it's best to read through your benefit plan information or contact the insurance company directly.

As a general rule, all therapy sessions are confidential, and anything you discuss with your therapist will remain between the two of you unless you request otherwise. However, there are exceptions where therapists are legally required to disclose information, such as suspected abuse, threats of harm to oneself or others, or legal mandates.

Clinical counsellors and psychotherapists use therapeutic skills grounded in mental health evidence-based research to help people relieve emotional pain, learn new skills, and gain insights into various concerns. They typically hold at least a Master’s degree and are registered with professional organizations.

Psychologists have a PhD or PsyD and are specifically trained in psychological testing and assessments, as well as diagnosing and treating mental illness. They may also conduct research and do not typically prescribe medication.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors specialized in diagnosing and treating mental illness. They can prescribe medication and are licensed by medical boards.

A therapist is an umbrella term for someone skilled in therapy, which can include various professionals like massage therapists, physiotherapists, and mental health therapists.

There are a few different ways! Appointments can be made by either:

• Calling our Clinic Coordinator directly at 250_________ (phone/voicemail)

• Going to our online booking site (Jane App)

• Sending an inquiry through our Contact Us form

• Emailing us directly at intake@infocuscounselling.com

We will respond as soon as possible!

Therapy offers a range of specific skills beneficial for neurodiversity, including emotional management, coping with anxiety and stress, improving relationships, problem-solving, self-confidence, and self-awareness. It addresses root causes of issues, providing personalized care and support.

Therapeutic modalities are the models and techniques your clinicians uses to understand and address your concerns. They tailor these approaches to fit your unique needs, creating a holistic treatment plan.

Many individuals feel apprehensive about reaching out to a psychologist or attending a counselling session, and this is completely normal. We prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your experiences. Building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key component of effective therapy, and we approach this with care and dedication.

We understand the importance of providing timely support when someone seeks help. The first session is typically more structured, allowing us to discuss your expectations of therapy and address any questions or concerns you may have. This includes ensuring that you are giving informed consent to receive services, clarifying confidentiality, discussing the benefits and potential challenges of therapy, and defining our respective roles and responsibilities.

Subsequent sessions will focus on your specific concerns, as we aim to understand your strengths and areas of struggle. Together, we will identify the direction you wish to take in therapy, and begin the collaborative work towards your goals.

The number of sessions needed varies based on individual goals and needs. Short-term counselling may range from 6-10 sessions, while more extensive or specialized care may last 6 months to a year. Ultimately, the length of therapy is determined by you and your counsellor.