Support for Life's Toughest Climbs
Frequently Asked Questions
We know that starting therapy can bring up a lot of questions, and we’re here to help. Whether you’re wondering about the therapy process, insurance coverage, or what to expect in your first session, this page provides answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out and we’d be happy to help!
What’s the Difference Between Therapists, Psychologists, Social Workers,
and Nurse Psychotherapists?
With so many different titles, it can be confusing to know who does what in the mental health field. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand the differences:
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Psychologists are trained in the assessment and diagnosis of mental health conditions, and they are also highly trained therapists. They don’t prescribe medication but offer talk therapy and are covered by most extended health benefits.
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Registered Psychotherapists specialize in talk therapy and use different approaches to help clients navigate thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They are trained to work with a wide range of mental health concerns.
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Nurse Psychotherapists are registered nurses with additional training in psychotherapy. They can provide therapy for mental health concerns while also considering physical health factors. Depending on their certification, some may also prescribe medication.
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Social Workers provide therapy and emotional support while also considering broader social and environmental factors. They use various therapeutic approaches and are regulated professionals.
If you're unsure who’s the right fit for you, feel free to reach out. We're happy to help you navigate your options!
What do you mean by a "shared care" approach?
At THRIVE, all practitioners work under the clinical supervision of a registered psychologist. While each client is supported by a primary therapist, their care is enriched through ongoing consultation and collaboration with the supervising psychologist. This team-based approach allows us to thoughtfully develop and adjust treatment plans, ensuring the use of effective, evidence-based therapies tailored to each individual’s needs. Supervision also strengthens the quality of care by supporting diagnostic clarity, comprehensive assessments, and thorough documentation when appropriate. Ultimately, this model helps ensure that your care remains intentional, cohesive, and aligned with your personal goals.
How much does a session cost?
The cost of a 50-minute therapy session ranges from $175 to $220, depending on the clinician’s qualifications and the type of service provided.
Some services, such as WSIB-covered sessions, extended health benefits claims, or documentation requests (e.g., letters for employers), may have additional costs or different rates.
Accepted methods of payment include cash, e-transfer or credit card (VISA, Mastercard, Amex) following your session.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We work with a variety of insurance providers and direct billing options to make accessing therapy as smooth as possible. We currently accept coverage through WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board), VAC (Veterans Affairs Canada), NIHB (Non-Insured Health Benefits for First Nations and Inuit), Canada Life, Blue Cross, Great-West Life, Green Shield, Manulife, Sun Life, Desjardins, Telus Health, and more.
Many extended health benefit plans cover therapy services, but coverage varies depending on your provider and the qualifications they recognize (e.g., psychologist, social worker, registered psychotherapist). If you're unsure whether your plan covers our services, we recommend checking with your provider.
Can I start with a free consultation?
Absolutely! We offer a 15-minute virtual consultation to help you determine if our services are the right fit for you. This is a chance to ask questions, learn more about how we work, and get a feel for your therapist, without any pressure or commitment.
Starting therapy can feel nerve-wracking at first, and we want you to feel comfortable and confident in your choice.
What should I expect from my first session?
Your first session is a chance to get to know your therapist and start exploring what brings you to therapy. We'll begin by going over important details, like confidentiality and how therapy works, before gently diving into the challenges you're facing. Your therapist will listen, ask questions, and work to understand your concerns in a way that feels safe and supportive.
By the end of the session, we’ll begin to identify some goals, like things you’d like to work on or changes you’d like to see in your life. Therapy is a collaborative process, and we’ll work together to create a plan that feels right for you.
Many clients find that weekly or biweekly sessions help them build momentum and make meaningful progress, especially in the beginning. Others prefer a more flexible schedule based on their needs. We’ll discuss what works best for you and adjust as needed.
Are sessions confidential?
Therapy is meant to be a safe, private space where you can talk openly without fear of judgment or disclosure. Everything you share in therapy is completely confidential and will never be shared without your consent with a few legal and ethical exceptions. These include:
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If there is a serious and imminent risk of harm to yourself or someone else.
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If there is reason to believe that a child is at risk of physical or sexual abuse.
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If you disclose that a regulated health professional has sexually abused you.
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If a court of law subpoenas your records.
These situations are rare, but if they ever come up, your therapist will discuss them with you. If you have any questions about confidentiality, we’re happy to go over them before or during your first session. Your privacy and trust are our top priorities.
How long does therapy last?
Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the length of treatment depends on what you want to work on. Some concerns, like specific challenges or short-term goals, can be addressed in a few sessions, while deeper, more complex struggles may take longer to explore.
If you’re dealing with something more specific, you may see progress in a shorter timeframe. But if you’re feeling lost, unhappy, or unsure of what’s wrong, therapy can be a longer journey of self-discovery and healing. Everyone’s experience is unique, and we’ll move at a pace that feels right for you.
Your therapist will work with you to set goals, track progress, and adjust the process as needed, ensuring that therapy continues to support you in a meaningful way.
What are your hours of operation?
Our office hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, during which we are available to respond to emails and phone calls. Therapy sessions are offered during regular business hours, with some evening availability depending on the therapist.
At this time, we do not offer weekend appointments.
Want to learn more?
WSIB & Workplace Mental Health Questions
Does THRIVE accept WSIB clients?
Yes. THRIVE provides psychological and psychotherapy services to eligible clients with WSIB claims when treatment has been appropriately authorized and the client's needs fall within the services available at our clinic.
What is the WSIB Mental Health Program of Care?
The Mental Health Program of Care is WSIB's current community-based mental health program for eligible workers requiring assessment and treatment following work-related psychological injuries.
What happened to the WSIB Community Mental Health Program?
WSIB replaced the former Community Mental Health Program with the Mental Health Program of Care in April 2026. Clients already receiving care through the former program should consult WSIB regarding how their individual treatment is administered.
Does WSIB cover the cost of therapy?
WSIB may authorize psychotherapy and other mental health services for eligible workers. Coverage depends on the circumstances and authorization associated with the individual claim.
Do I need an approved WSIB claim before contacting THRIVE?
You are welcome to contact us with questions. However, WSIB authorization is required before services can be billed through the applicable WSIB mental health program.
Do you treat workplace-related PTSD?
Yes. Clinicians at THRIVE work with individuals experiencing trauma and PTSD associated with workplace incidents and cumulative occupational exposures.
Do you provide return-to-work support?
Where clinically appropriate, treatment may address functional abilities relevant to return to work. Recommendations are individualized and depend on the client's symptoms, functional capacity and occupational demands.
Want to learn more?
First Responders & Frontline Worker Questions
Do you work with police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and/or nurses?
Yes. THRIVE provides mental health services for first responders including police officers, firefighters, paramedics and other emergency professionals. THRIVE also works with nurses and other healthcare professionals experiencing trauma, burnout, anxiety, occupational stress and related concerns.
Do you treat first responder PTSD?
Yes. Trauma and occupational mental health are areas of particular interest within our clinic. The appropriate clinician and treatment approach will depend on the individual's needs and clinical presentation.
But do I have to talk about the trauma immediately?
No. Trauma treatment should proceed according to clinical readiness. Early sessions may focus on understanding symptoms, developing coping strategies, improving stability and establishing a therapeutic relationship before more direct trauma processing occurs.
Do you have clinicians who understand healthcare settings?
Yes. Our interdisciplinary team includes a nurse psychotherapist as well as other clinicians experienced in occupational mental health and trauma.
Can first responders attend sessions virtually?
Virtual psychotherapy may be available when clinically appropriate and consistent with any applicable insurer or WSIB requirements.
Is burnout the same as PTSD?
No. Burnout and PTSD are different clinical concepts, although some symptoms may overlap and an individual may experience more than one difficulty. Assessment helps clarify the factors contributing to an individual's symptoms.