FAQ
Opening up space for curiosity and joy
Why joyful resistance?
Alice Walker wrote: “Resistance is the secret of joy!”. For marginalized peoples, including disabled, BIPOC, queer and trans communities, this is a powerful dialectic.
Joy, pleasure, curiosity and awe are the lifeblood of our spirits, but can feel out of reach in the wake of traumatic experience and ongoing systemic harm.
Resisting systems of harm (with hearts, bodies, knowledge and cultural expression; in solidarity) can be a deep source of healing that reconnects us to our own bodily sovereignty, strength, agency, and joy! This healing principle is embodied in our work.
What is a non-violent healing approach?
More than simply neurodivergent affirming, non-violent healing approaches are attuned, depathologizing, decolonizing, self-determined and honour the right to individual and collective sovereignty.
I resist all “therapies” of harm—implicit and explicit. This includes violent approaches like conversion therapies (e.g. ABA, IBI, gender conversion “therapies”), and those which implicitly treat autism / neurodivergence as other, less than, disordered, or something that needs fixing (or managing).
I don’t know much about decolonizing approaches—is this type of therapy right for me?
Knowledge of decolonizing theory and approaches (while welcome) is not required to benefit from this work. More than an analytical framework, decolonizing approaches are reflected in the principles and practice of therapy, including a deep commitment to non-violence, resisting oppression, and honouring individual, collective and cultural sovereignty.
Do you offer free fit consults? Exploratory meetings?
Yes. I offer free 30 minute fit consults to those interested in exploring the possibility of working together. This is an opportunity for you to share your healing needs and goals, and to learn more about my approach, and supports offered. This will provide us both with the opportunity to determine whether we wish to move forward together. Contact me to schedule a consult.
Do you offer services online and in person?
Yes. I offer services in person, over secure online video and by phone. Some services are also available in-home in Toronto, including animal assisted therapy, family support and accommodations planning.
Do you offer services in my region?
I offer online services in many regions, with in person services offered primarily in the Greater Toronto Area. Contact me to inquire about service availability in your area.
Do you provide trauma treatment? What if the trauma has not ended?
Yes. I offer trauma treatment for a wide range of traumatic experience. This includes support for those experiencing ongoing trauma. All services are trauma informed.
Do you provide accommodations plans and letters?
Yes. I support accommodations planning, including the development of workplace, educational and recreational accommodations plans and letters. Educational accommodations support is available for both school aged and post secondary students of all ages.
Do you provide support for tech and videogame overuse?
Yes. I offer healing support to those who wish to change or rebalance their relationship with tech (social media, gaming etc.). My approach is collaborative, compassionate, non-judgmental and harm reduction based.
Do you provide parent and family support? Support for autistic/ND children and youth?
Yes. I support families and parents (all and mixed neurotypes). I also provide focused support for autistic/ND children and youth, including accommodations planning, animal assisted therapy and groups.
What is somatic therapy? Why focus on the body?
Somatic therapy engages our body experience and nervous system response, which we are often taught to suppress, override and mask. It also engages other aspects of experience including emotion, thoughts and meaning. No part of self—or experience—is left behind.
What is animal assisted therapy?
Animal assisted therapy is a therapist facilitated healing modality that involves therapy animals. It is typically integrated with other therapy methods. The animals contribute through their presence, attunement and empathy, and invite you to explore relational connection in a safe, supportive and sometimes playful way. It is a great option for both children and adults.
How long does psychotherapy, the healing journey last?
The length of each healing journey is influenced by many factors including the issue/s you wish to work on, your healing goals, and the supports you have available to you. We will explore these factors in developing a plan that fits your needs and goals, including expectations around duration of treatment.
What is the cost of service/s? Is there tax?
Fees for individual or family supports are typically in the range of $200 / session and there is no sales tax on services. Groups and sensory studio time are offered at a significantly lower price point. Contact me for detailed information on pricing.
Are your services covered by insurance? Tax deductible?
My services are covered by most private and workplace health insurance plans, and are typically tax deductible. Contact your insurance provider and/or tax professional to confirm what deductions are available to you.