Top Questions

How do you accept payment?

Due to COVID-19 my preferred methods of payment are:

E-transfer to:
Register your credit card on your client profile for auto payment.
Purchase a Prepaid Plan for a discount. Credit is applied to your client account.

How much does a session cost?

The book online feature lets you see a break down of various session costs and options. Additionally there are prepayment plans discounts for weekly/biweekly session. A portion of my practice is reserved for sliding scale and trades. Please inquire if finances is a barrier.

Is my session covered by a Third Party?

Possibly. Westcoast Expressive is approved by:

Pacific Blue Cross, Sunlife, Green Shield, ClaimSecure, Equitable Life of Canada, Manulife, Crime Victim Assistance Program, Jordan's Principle

Please ensure that your plan states coverage for counselling or psychotherapy before your first session. Plans that specifically state psychology are NOT covered. I am happy to provide you with a receipt to submit for reimbursement.

What will my first session be like?

Your first session will involve getting to know one another and exploring the art therapy room. The focus will be on creating an environment where you become familiar with art therapy, experiment with different tools while we build a relationship with each other. I offer a shorter Introductory Session that is a great place to start

Would you consider a trade for a session?

Yes! I love to find creative ways to trade services. Please don't hesitate to contact me with your ideas.

What is your registration number?

Registered Therapeutic Counsellor ACCT #2616

Registered Art Therapist CATA #206-R-16

How is art therapy different from talk therapy?

With art therapy there is a third entity in the room...the art! We use this as a tool to communicate from your unconscious. We still talk during session but the art allows what is hidden to be seen and processed in unique ways.

Why is art therapy used to treat trauma?

When we experience a traumatic event the part of our brain that is responsible for language (the Brocas area) shuts down. At the same time our brain’s danger recognition centre (the amygdala) is on high alert and records the traumatic memory visually and in the form of bodily sensation. Using art to express emotion accesses both visually stored memory and body memory, as not only does it enable people to create images, but the use of art materials such as clay and paint can reconnect them to physical sensation. They may be cut off from their bodily senses, particularly in cases of physical and sexual abuse. Some researchers have suggested that the senses of touch and sight connect directly to our brain’s fear centre which is why art therapy is ideally placed to work with traumatic memory.