Getting Started
New to therapy or new to our practice? Start here.
How do I book a first appointment?+
The easiest way to get started is to book a free 20-minute consultation through our online booking system at JaneApp. This gives us a chance to connect, answer your questions, and confirm we're the right fit before you commit to a full session. You can also reach us by phone or email if you prefer.
What happens in the free consultation?+
The free 20-minute consultation is a no-pressure call. We'll briefly discuss what's bringing you to therapy, answer any questions you have, and give you a sense of how we work. There is no expectation to book — it's simply an opportunity to see if we're a good fit.
What should I expect from the first full session?+
The first session (often called an intake session) is largely about getting to know you — your history, what's brought you to therapy, and what you're hoping to get from the work. Your therapist will ask questions and you'll begin to get a sense of their approach. You don't need to prepare anything or know exactly what you want to say. Just come as you are.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?+
No. You do not need a referral to book therapy at Believe Therapy & Coaching. You can book directly through our online system. Some insurance plans may require a referral letter for reimbursement — check with your insurer if you're unsure.
I've never been to therapy before. What should I know?+
The most important thing to know is that there's no "right way" to do therapy. You don't need to come with the perfect words or know exactly what's wrong. Therapy is a relationship — it takes a few sessions to find your footing, and that's completely normal. Your therapist will guide the process, especially early on.
How Therapy Works
What to expect from the process itself.
How long does therapy take?+
There is no universal answer — it depends on what you're working on and what you need. Some people come for a focused 8–12 session engagement around a specific issue. Others work with us for a year or more on deeper patterns or trauma. We'll discuss goals and timelines openly so you have a realistic sense of what to expect.
How often will I come?+
Most clients start with weekly sessions, which provides consistency and allows momentum to build. As things stabilize, sessions may shift to every two weeks. We'll decide together what frequency makes sense for you based on your goals and what your life allows.
What approaches do you use?+
Our therapists are trained in a range of evidence-based modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), DBT-informed skills, somatic approaches, and attachment-based therapy. The approach is adapted to the person — we don't use a single method for everyone.
What if I don't connect with my therapist?+
Therapeutic fit matters enormously. If after a few sessions you don't feel the connection is right, please tell us. We would rather help you find the right therapist — whether within our team or elsewhere — than have you settle for a relationship that isn't working. There is no judgment in this.
Is everything I say confidential?+
Yes — with a few legally required exceptions. Therapists are required by law to break confidentiality if there is an imminent risk of harm to yourself or others, or in cases of child abuse. Outside of these specific circumstances, everything shared in session remains strictly confidential. Your therapist will review this in detail during your first session.
Practical Logistics
Location, format, scheduling, and what to know about how sessions work.
Where are you located?+
Our office is located at 370 Churchill Ave N, Westboro, Ottawa, ON. We are conveniently accessible by transit and offer street parking nearby. Virtual sessions are available for clients across Ontario.
Do you offer virtual sessions?+
Yes. We offer secure, encrypted video sessions for clients across Ontario. Virtual sessions are a fully supported option — not a lesser alternative. Many clients find the convenience of virtual therapy removes a meaningful barrier to consistent attendance.
What is your cancellation policy?+
We ask for 48 business hours notice to cancel or reschedule. Cancellations with less than 48 business hours notice may be charged the full session fee, except in cases of illness or genuine emergency. This policy allows us to offer the time slot to other clients.
How long is each session?+
Standard individual sessions are 50 minutes. Extended individual sessions of 75 minutes are available on request. Session length is 50 minutes unless otherwise arranged. Clinical supervision sessions are 60 minutes.
Fees & Insurance
Questions about cost, coverage, and how to access support. See full fees page.
Does OHIP cover therapy?+
No. OHIP does not cover Registered Psychotherapy services in Ontario. Therapy may be covered through your extended health benefits, or paid directly out of pocket.
What does a session cost?+
Individual sessions start at $140 (50 minutes) with Robin Atkinson, RP(Q), and $175 (50 minutes) with Amelia Dowell, RP. Couples sessions start at $250. Session length is 50 minutes unless otherwise arranged. A free 20-minute consultation is available to everyone. See our
fees page for complete pricing.
Will my insurance cover therapy?+
Most extended health benefit plans cover Registered Psychotherapy. We provide official receipts for reimbursement and offer direct billing to select insurers including Medavie Blue Cross. Coverage varies by plan — confirm your specific benefits with your provider before beginning.
Do you offer a sliding scale?+
We hold a limited number of reduced-fee spots for clients facing genuine financial barriers. Please mention this when reaching out and we will do our best to find an arrangement that works, or refer you to appropriate resources.
