Frequently asked questions.

Sessions are 55 minutes long and billed at $140/session. 

At this time all of my sliding scale slots are filled. But please watch Instagram for when sliding scale sessions are available again.

A first session can sometimes be intimidating or anxiety inducing. Which is why I like to spend the first session getting to know you, and allowing you room to get to know me. First sessions are a great time to talk about goals for therapy, to ask questions about your therapist or the work, and to share what brought you there.

My focus is always on my clients and I believe therapy should be client led and client centred. The lens through which I approaches my clients is trauma informed. Meaning my biggest question is, "What's happened?" rather than "What's wrong?" I am deeply curious about your experiences, both past and present, and believe that understanding ourselves and why we do what we do is the first step to change. My work is attachment-based, with a trauma focus, giving care to inner parts (e.g. your inner child). I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and I love to blend this powerful tool with talk therapy.

The number of sessions required is dependent on the issues each client is dealing with and what their individual goals are for therapy. I truly love doing the deep work of therapy, which for many clients can mean ongoing sessions over the long-term. However, many people come to therapy for a short time to deal with specific issues or needs. 

The frequency of therapy is dependent on a number of variables. Things to consider are your felt level of need for support, affordability, and your goals for therapy. The key to accomplishing meaningful work in therapy is consistency. Whether that's once a month, every 3 weeks, every week, or whatever frequency you feel is best. Simply put, it's up to you. But consistently coming helps the work progress more easily.

Sessions can be booked via a variety of methods. Primarily booking is handled via my online booking service, which you can reach by clicking the 'book' button located on my home page. It can also be found at: https://LucyBrandesCounsellingConsulting.as.me/

You may also book by emailing me directly at: lucy@lucybrandescounselling.ca

For general inquiries please feel free to reach out via the 'Contact' page.

Please note that I have a strict 24 hour cancellation policy in which a full session fee will be charged in the event of a no show or cancellation with less than 24 hours notice. Having sufficient notice allows me enough time to contact clients from from my cancellation list to fill the opening.

I accept debit, Visa, Mastercard, etransfer, and cash. Payment is due upon the completion of your session and unless otherwise arranged will be billed online. You will receive a detailed receipt via email. Clients with outstanding payments will not be able to book another session until their account is settled.

Your insurance plan may cover the costs of therapy. It depends upon your provider and the details of your plan. The best way to find out is to call your insurance provider and check with them first. Here’s the information you will need:

Therapist: Lucy Brandes, MACP
Canadian Certified Counsellor; CCPA # 10005071

Direct billing is not available but a detailed receipt will be provided.

No! I see all humans ages 16 and up, regardless of how they identify. However, as a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community I have a special interest (and an expertise) in working with queer folx. 

Yes! I believe that online therapy services are an accessibility issue. As such sessions are available via secure online video. Sessions are also available in person or by phone.