Why people choose online therapy
For many people, online therapy is what makes therapy possible at all. You do not lose an hour to travel. You can meet from the place where you feel most at ease. If you live far from a city, or your week is already full, it can be the difference between starting now and putting it off again.
It is still real therapy. The session is the same length, the care is held to the same professional standards, and the confidentiality rules are the same.
What I work with
- Anxiety, panic and a mind that will not settle
- Trauma, including childhood trauma
- Grief and loss
- Anger, emotional flooding and reactivity at home
- Strain in marriages and between generations in families
- Young adults finding their way between different worlds and expectations
I work with individuals, and with couples and families. My training includes EMDR, CBT for trauma, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing.
What you need for a session
- A private space where you will not be overheard
- A phone, tablet or computer with a camera
- A steady internet connection
If privacy at home is hard to find, some people use a parked car or a booked room at work or a library. We can talk about what would work for you on the free call.
Who this is for
Online therapy here is for people in Ontario. You may be anywhere in the province, from a big city to a small town. You may have tried therapy before, or this may be your first time.
It may not be the right fit if you are in active crisis or at immediate risk to your safety, which needs same-day care. It is also not the right service for substance dependence that needs medical withdrawal management, or for custody assessments, court-ordered evaluations or formal psychological testing.
How sessions work
- 1A free 15-minute call. We talk briefly about what is going on and whether I am the right fit. If I am not, I will help you find someone who is.
- 2Your first session. We go deeper into your story and what you want to be different, at your pace.
- 3Ongoing sessions. Sessions are 50 minutes, by secure video. Most people start weekly and space sessions out as things steady.
Fee: $175 for 50 minutes, online. Couples and family sessions run longer and are billed accordingly. I tell you the exact amount before we book.
Virtual across Ontario or in person in Maple, for people in Ontario only.
Book a free 15-minute callJoin the waitlistSee other optionsRead the writing
We'll see together if I'm the right fit. If I'm not, I'll point you to someone who is.
Questions about online therapy
Does online therapy work as well as in-person therapy?
For many people and many common concerns, research has generally found that therapy by video works about as well as meeting in person. It is not right for everyone, and we can talk on the free call about whether it suits you. If you would rather sit in a room, I see people in person in Maple.
Is it confidential?
Yes. As a Registered Social Worker I follow strict confidentiality rules. The limits, such as safety and the law, are explained at the start.
Will insurance cover it?
Many extended health plans cover services from a Registered Social Worker. I give receipts for you to submit to your plan.
Can I see you if I live outside Ontario?
Sessions are for people in Ontario only. If you live outside Ontario, please look for a registered therapist where you live.
If you are in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 any time, or call 911 if you are in immediate danger.
Ali Raza Hasan Ali, MSW, RSW. Registered Social Worker, Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, #849046. This page is general information, not clinical advice.