frequently asked questions
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A consultation generally involves a brief discussion of what you are looking for support with, a description of the therapist’s approach and time for any questions you have. This gives you and your potential therapist a chance to see if you are a good fit or not.
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We believe the relationship between you and your therapist is fundamental to healing, and like all relationships, it takes time to develop. Most people see improvement in around 12-20 sessions, but this is highly variable depending on the person and what they are seeking to get out of therapy.
We prioritize long term care and addressing the root cause of issues, which often means clients stay with us for years. Some folks find regular appointments to be most supportive, and others find that after the initial treatment, they only need occasional follow-ups.
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We recommend that clients start with weekly or bi-weekly appointments, as this is considered the “therapeutic dose” of therapy, and then adjust based on need.
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A therapist who is the right fit for you is one who makes you feel deeply heard and understood, and at the same time, challenges you to consider new ways of thinking.
PSYCHOTherapy
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Currently, we accept payment via credit card and e-transfer. Payments made via e-transfer must be sent before your session. Otherwise, payment is charged after the session.
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At this time, we do not bill directly to insurance.
Note: Many insurance providers cover psychotherapy, but we encourage you to check that your insurance covers Registered Psychotherapists and/or Registered Psychotherapists (Qualifying).
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We do not. Accessibility is a systemic issue in healthcare, and many practitioners burn themselves out trying to make up for it at their own expense. We do not believe this to be a sustainable model for achieving accessibility.
We continue to strive towards sustainable, accessible practices that support our practitioners first and foremost. This model allows us to give ourselves and you the best care possible.
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Our cancellation policy requires 48 hours of notice in order to cancel or reschedule sessions. Sessions cancelled or rescheduled with less than 48 hours’ notice will be subject to the full fee.
Payment
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Naturopathy combines modern science with traditional medicine to support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. It goes beyond one symptom or one body system and aims to assess and treat the whole person.
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Your first visit includes a detailed discussion of your health history, lifestyle, and goals. Often, we will request some additional data via bloodwork, diet diary or other functional testing to further tailor your treatment plan in future visits.
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Everyone’s healing journey is different. Some people notice improvements within weeks, while others may take longer depending on the condition (severity of symptoms and how long it’s been going on) and commitment to treatment plan. Naturopathy is not a quick fix — our goal is to provide you with sustainable habits and a better understanding of self for the long-term.
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Treatments may include nutrition and lifestyle counselling, herbal medicine, supplements, acupuncture, or other evidence-based natural therapies chosen to best support your health.
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Not at all. Both types of healthcare are necessary and can work collaboratively. Naturopathy aims to lay the foundation for health to better improve outcomes in (or reduce visits to) your medical doctor’s office.
naturopathy
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Acupuncture points are based on energy channels throughout the body identified by Traditional Chinese Medicine. Each energy channel is associated with certain emotions and body systems that align with a patient’s presentation. Based on this, your practitioner chooses acupuncture points to help restore balance and energy flow in these channels, reducing symptoms.
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Most people feel little to no sensation during acupuncture. You may notice a brief tingling, warmth, or light pressure when the needles are inserted, but treatments are generally relaxing and comfortable.
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The frequency depends on your condition and health goals. Most people benefit from weekly sessions for the first 4-6 weeks, with treatments gradually spaced out as symptoms improve. Once familiar with the treatment and outcomes, patients can often identify when they’re due for a ‘maintenance’ session.
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Yes, acupuncture is covered under most extended benefits. However, acupuncture at Habitual Health is performed by a naturopathic doctor, not an acupuncturist. As such, you can only claim our acupuncture treatments under ‘Naturopathy’, not ‘Acupuncture’.