What does the counselling process look like?

The counselling process will look unique to each person and their needs. The initial appointment is 60-75 minutes and will focus on getting to know one another and completing any necessary assessments. For children, the initial session consists of approximately 15 minutes spent with the caregiver followed by 45-60 minutes spent with the child. Following the first session, I will suggest a counselling plan to consider moving forward. This often looks like biweekly or weekly sessions for a period of time followed by a caregiver session to check-in and discuss the process (for children). At this point a new session plan would be determined or we would wrap up the counselling process for the time being depending on the needs of the individual attending counselling.

Ultimately, the frequency and duration of sessions is up to the individual (and their family) who is attending counselling. After the initial session, all consecutive sessions are 45-55 minutes in length. During sessions, a variety of materials and activities are available and I follow the lead and the interests of the individual attending counselling. Sometimes it may be difficult for an individual to know what they’d like to do and so we may spend the session talking without engaging in any art making. I also always have specific activities I can suggest. Activities could include painting, collaging, movement, games, drawing, sculpting, sandtray work and more.

The counselling process is a collaborative experience.

What is the cost of counselling sessions?

45-minute sessions are $125.00 an hour. 55-minute sessions are $145.00 A sliding fee scale is available if cost is a barrier.

Are sessions covered by my health insurance plan?

My services are included in all plans that cover services provided by a registered social worker. My services are also covered by those who receive funding from Victim Services, ASD Individualized Funding or Non-Insured Health Benefits.

Do you have to be in Saskatoon to book a session?

I do offer my services to those outside of Saskatoon. I am able to offer virtual sessions over Zoom and can send art materials to you if access is a barrier.

I am also happy to discuss my availability in order to accommodate individuals and families who are wanting to travel into Saskatoon and have specific availability.

What does an art-based therapy session look like?

We are able to express experiences, challenges and emotions in unique ways through art. A session may look like doodling while chatting, painting a memory, creating a scene in the sandtray or something else entirely.

During sessions, you are free to express yourself in a wide variety of ways while in a safe environment. expressive arts therapy is always about the process and experience of creative expression, it is NOT about creating an art piece that looks a certain way.

What do I do as a parent or caregiver while my child is in a session?

Adults are welcome to leave the building during their child’s session or stay in the couch area and help themselves to a warm drink and wait.

How do I know if expressive arts therapy will be a good fit for myself or my child?

expressive arts therapy can be a good option for any individual. That said, it may especially be a good fit for those who:
find it difficult to discuss things verbally
have experienced trauma
enjoy art and creative expression
have tried talk-based therapy and would like to try a different approach

How do I book a session?

You can book a session using my online calendar here. Many choose to book a series of sessions after the initial one. Having a consistent session time can be helpful for many individuals, including children for whom the routine can facilitate safety and growth.