Asher Faerstein, MEd, RP
Registered Psychotherapist
FAQ
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A typical session runs for 50 minutes. Rates for sessions are $160. Please note that this fee is subject to incremental annual increases.
I will provide a receipt following each session which you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. I recommend reviewing the details of your policy before we begin to ensure services with a Registered Psychotherapist will be covered.
I offer a free initial consultation (either by phone or by videoconference call) of up to 20 minutes. This is an opportunity for us to introduce ourselves, talk about how we might work together, and help us determine if I’m the right therapist for you.
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Offering sliding scale rates is an ethical professional measure I incorporate into my practice to make mental health care more accessible for those who might not otherwise be able to afford it. My ability to provide sliding scale is dependent on many factors, including the number of reduced-fee clients with whom I am already working. If my sliding scale spots are full, I am happy to put you on a waitlist and/or provide you with some referrals.
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Currently all sessions are conducted online. Virtual sessions take place on Jane– a secure, remote video and audio conferencing platform. I offer virtual video and telephone therapy services for Canadian residents living in Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Newfoundland, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
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There is no specific preparation for sessions but you will certainly get the most out of them if you actively involve yourself. This means, for instance, taking some time before each session to check in with yourself about what’s happening for you or what you might want to discuss during the hour. Sometimes I will suggest activities or exercises to do between sessions as a way to integrate our work in your day-to-day life.
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I offer short and long-term therapeutic support based on your needs.
At the outset of our work, we will talk about how frequently you would like to have sessions. In the beginning, it is often a good idea to attend therapy with some regularity, e.g. to have a session once a week or once every two weeks. As time goes on and you “build the muscles” developed through our work, you may need less frequent appointments. It’s always up to you.
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Research shows that good therapeutic outcomes are correlated with a strong relationship between client and therapist. It is so important that you feel your therapist is someone with whom you can connect and feel safe.
It is vulnerable to ask for help, to share one’s inner world with a stranger, and to risk feeling exposed, invalidated, or dismissed. Most therapists are open to having a free telephone conversation before you meet with them. It may feel intimidating, but it can be a good idea to ask questions during that initial conversation in order to get a sense of the therapist and your dynamic together.
If you have any other questions, do not hesitate to contact me.