FAQs
"What should I expect for next steps in couples therapy?"
Melissa is a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work, and is covered under many benefit plans. It is highly recommend that you inquire with your benefit program first to verify your coverage before we begin. You would claim for reimbursement with the receipt provided. The credit card is processed through the secure Owl platform.
If you would like to book a free 15 minute video consultation before booking in a session, or would like to go ahead and book an appointment, you can click here:
Once your initial session is booked, you will each receive a consent/intake form to fill out. Please complete this at least 48 hours before the first session.
After that, you will each be sent the Gottman Connect questionnaire. Please fill this out independently of each other. This is approximately $40USD, that is paid directly to the Gottman Institute. This will help us to identify your strengths and areas of growth as a couple, according to 40 years of Gottman's research. Please complete this at least 48 hours before the first individual session. The report will not generate until both people have completed it.
Sessions are usually recorded for supervision and certification purposes. Recordings are kept safe and secure and then are deleted. Live supervision also typically takes place for one session early in the intervention phase, at no extra cost to you. Privacy is fully respected as the supervisor is also bound by confidentiality.
At the beginning of our work together, it is ideal to meet weekly, although this depends on all of our availability. A typical schedule starts with three 90 minute sessions and then are usually 75 minutes long after that. For example:
Week 1: 90 minute couple session (Couple Oral History)
Week 2: both individual sessions, 60 minutes each (Individual Stories/Backgrounds)
Week 3: 90 minute couple session (Feedback Session/Finalize Goals)
Week 4: 90 minute couple session (Expressing Needs)
Week 5: 75 minute couple session (Live Supervision)
Subsequent weeks: 75 minute sessions
IMPORTANT: Please note there is a 48 hour cancellation policy.
Looking forward to working together!
What is the cancellation policy?
There is a 48 hour cancellation policy. If you need to rebook or cancel please let us know more than 48 hours ahead of time, otherwise the full session fee will be charged. The spot is held for you, and someone else waiting for an appointment could have benefited from it. Thank you for your understanding.
Can I follow you on social media?
You are open to like The Couple Wellness Experts page on Facebook, or add on Instagram or follow on Twitter. There is no expectation to do this. Please use discretion. There is a risk involved, as others who also follow these pages may see your user name. Our Social Media Policy prohibits us from connecting on social media with our personal profiles or actively engaging with current or former clients on any social media. We are committed to protecting your privacy and building a trusting relationship with you. Messaging through social media is not a secure platform and so it is best not to engage in this way. If you are a potential client, you can reach out to use through the contact us page on this website. As a client, you can use our secure messaging system for any correspondence. Further, you will never be asked to offer a review or testimonial on-line, as that would be a breach of confidentiality. We want to respect boundaries and protect your right to privacy. If you have any questions or concerns, please come to us directly. If there is anything in your on-line life that you wish to discuss with your therapist, please bring that into session where we can discuss it together during therapy time.
I’ve never talked to anyone. I’m used to handling things on my own. Aren’t people who go to therapy weak?
Not at all. People who ask for help know when they need it and have the courage to reach out. Everyone needs help now and then. In our work together, I’ll help you explore and identify your strengths and how to implement them to reduce the influence of the problems you are facing.
What’s the difference between talking to you or my best friend or family?
The difference is between someone who can do something, and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. A mental health professional can help you approach your situation in a new way– teach you new skills, gain different perspectives, listen to you without judgment or expectations, and help you listen to yourself. Furthermore, counseling is completely confidential. You won’t have to worry about others “knowing my business.” Lastly, if your situation provokes a great deal of negative emotion, and you’ve been confiding in a friend or family member, there is the risk that once you are feeling better you could start avoiding that person so you aren’t reminded of this difficult time in your life.
Why shouldn’t I just take medication?
Medication can be effective but it alone cannot solve all issues. Sometimes medication is needed in conjunction with counseling. Our work together is designed to explore and unpack the problems you are experiencing and expand on your strengths that can help you accomplish your personal goals.
How does it work? What do I have to do in sessions?
Because each person has different issues and goals for counseling, it will be different depending on the situation. We tailor our therapeutic approach to your specific needs, and collaboratively establish our goals.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of therapy. What can I do to help?
I am so glad you are dedicated to getting the most out of your sessions. Your active participation and dedication will be crucial to your success. Doing work between sessions is helpful, whether that means doing any homework assigned by the therapist, or personal reflection and journalling.