FAQ:

 Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is a treatment method for emotional and mental health challenges. It involves working with a trained therapist to explore feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that might be causing distress or impacting daily life. The goal is to help people gain insights, resolve issues, and develop strategies for managing challenges, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. 

I only offer virtual or online therapy sessions.  This is done via the Jane App.   

These video sessions comply with regulations like HIPAA and PIPEDA, making them suitable for confidential mental health and wellness appointments.

The easiest way to book an appointment with Allison is to book directly online as a new client.  You can also book future sessions online or you can send an email and Allison will do this for you.  

I do not offer free consultations for psychotherapy.  I do, however, try to respond in a timely way to specific questions about my services via email.

The first session is a chance for you to explain what has brought you into therapy.  I will ask you questions to gain a greater understanding of your situation and what types of challenges you would like to work on in future sessions. 

Therapy sessions involve discussions of life situations that were difficult, discussions about emotions, thought patterns, traumatic or distressing experiences, how to communicate or develop boundaries in relationships etc.  I use various evidence based therapy models and techniques during our time together (see About Me).

All personal information will be kept confidential. However, there are times when therapists are legally and ethically required to breach confidentiality without your consent. These circumstances include:

• If there is a reason to believe that you are at serious and imminent risk of physically harming yourself or another person.
• If there is reason to believe that a child is suffering from abuse and/or neglect.
• A court has subpoenaed your records.

The number of sessions that are required to help resolve a specific issue depends on your individual needs. This will be discussed during your first appointment.

Some clients prefer to book weekly appointments initially if their presenting issues are causing them significant distress or mental health symptoms are acute.  These sessions often decrease in frequency as a client feels more stable and have gained or improved coping skills.  

Some clients may need 10-12 sessions to accomplish their goals for therapy while others may feel that they achieved what they wanted from 2-3.  Some client may end therapy but return on occasion to work on specific issues or even years later.  

I specialize in working with women who are experiencing mental health issues related to specific reproductive transitions such as:

Perinatal: Pregnancy and Postpartum. Includes pregnancy loss, stillbirth, anxiety, depression, postpartum ocd, birth trauma, adjustment.

Perimenopause:  Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, typically beginning in a woman's 40s, though it can start earlier. Emotional and physical symptoms may occur as the body adjusts to lower hormone levels. Perimenopause usually lasts several years until the final menstrual period, officially marking the start of menopause. 

Menopause:  Menopause is the natural biological process marking the end of a woman's menstrual cycles and fertility. It is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period.  

Psychotherapy can be an effective treatment option for women experiencing emotional and psychological challenges related to menopause. While menopause is a natural life transition, it often brings significant changes that can affect mental health. Therapy can help manage symptoms like mood swings, anxiety, depression, and the emotional strain that can accompany the physical changes of menopause.

Therapeutic Approaches for Menopause:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help women manage negative thoughts and emotions associated with menopause, such as anxiety or depression. It focuses on changing patterns of thinking and behavior to improve emotional regulation and cope with stress​
   Nest Therapy  .
2. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness-based therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), can help women manage hot flashes, anxiety, and sleep disturbances by teaching them to stay present and reduce stress​
   Nest Therapy  .
3. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT encourages women to accept the physical and emotional changes of menopause while focusing on living in alignment with their values. It can help reduce the psychological distress associated with symptoms like mood swings or body changes​
   Nest Therapy  .
4. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): This therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social support, which can be crucial for women during menopause, especially if they experience isolation, stress from family dynamics, or work-related pressure.​
   

Psychotherapy can also help with sleep disturbances, body image issues, and the loss of identity some women experience during menopause. By providing emotional support, building coping strategies, and helping with relationship dynamics, therapy can make navigating menopause a more manageable and empowering experience.

With any symptoms related to the perinatal period, or aging, it is always important to consult with your medical provider as explore other health related causes as well as medications that could be of benefit.