Fees & Policies

Fees 

15 Minute Consult: FREE

Individual therapy:

$150* / 60 minute session 

Counselling for Older Adults:

$150 / 60 minute session

$75 / 30 minute session

Payment is due prior to session commencing or immediately after session has finished, unless we have made other arrangements. Payments can be made by credit card or e-transfer (to be sent to alexcoatsworthmsw@gmail.com).

Fees are not covered by OHIP. Many private insurance plans do cover all or part of the cost of psychotherapy with a registered social worker. It is your responsibility to confirm with your insurance provider if fees for my services will be covered and I would recommend doing this prior to our first session together. I am able to provide you with the necessary documentation for your insurance claims.

Social workers are considered an authorized medical practitioner for purposes of the medical expense tax credit in Canada.

*I recognize that cost can be a barrier for some people in getting mental health support. If sessional costs beyond a free initial consultation are a concern for you, please reach out and let me know. I do offer some sliding scale rates based on need and availability.

Policies

Confidentiality

My professional code of ethics, as defined by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, clearly states that all information discussed in a therapy session is kept private and confidential unless disclosure is required by law or if a client directly requests disclosure of information. The law requires me to disclose information in the following circumstances:

  • If I have reason to believe that the client and/or another person is in imminent danger of serious physical harm

  • If I have reason to believe or suspect that a child under the age of 16 is at risk of or has been abused

  • If a client reports being abused by another healthcare provider

  • If I am subpoenaed with a court order

Communication

My regular days of work are Monday-Friday. I make every effort to return messages within one-three business days. I do not provide emergency or crisis services. If you require immediate assistance, please call one of the following crisis numbers or go to the nearest emergency room:

  • 9-1-1

  • Distress Centres of Toronto: 416-408-4357

  • Gerstein Crisis Centre: 416-929-5200

  • Toronto Seniors Helpline: 416-217- 2077

Cancellation

I require 24 hours notice for any cancellation or change to the appointment time. If I do not receive 24 hours notice, clients will be charged in full for the scheduled appointment. Clients who arrive late for their appointment will still be seen, however, the session will end at the regular scheduled time.

“Owning our story can be hard, but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it.”

— Brené Brown