Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy

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When you’re starting the therapy process, you might have a lot of questions - but it can be hard to know which questions to ask.

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Here at KMA Therapy, we’ve been helping our clients find the answers they need for over 14 years. We’re passionate about teaching you everything you need to know to make amazing progress in therapy.

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After reading this article, you’ll know the ten most frequently asked questions about therapy - and get the answers you’ve been looking for.

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1. Why Would I Speak to a Therapist instead of a Friend?

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We get it - your friends know you, you trust them, and they are genuinely helpful.

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But seeing a therapist has additional benefits, like:

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• A therapist has professional training
• A therapist has objectivity and confidentiality
• A therapist has firm professional boundaries
• A therapist can prioritize you and your feelings
• You don’t have to feel guilty about taking up a therapist’s time

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Read What’s the Difference Between a Therapist and a Friend? to learn more.

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2. How Do I Know When to See a Therapist?

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We all go through ups and downs in life. It’s normal to feel downright awful one day but gain a new perspective that makes you feel better a week later.

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But if your feelings are becoming overwhelming, or you’re having trouble functioning in your daily life, it might be time to see a therapist.

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Signs it’s time to see a therapist include:

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• You just don’t feel like yourself
• Your relationships are suffering
• Your emotions feel out of control
• You’re altering aspects of your life to accommodate your feelings
• You’re spending a lot of time thinking about your emotions and challenges

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Read 5 Signs it’s Time to See a Therapist to learn more.

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3. How Do I Find a Therapist?

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When finding a therapist, you’ll want to consider their education, the cost of their services, and their area of expertise. 

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You’ll also want to learn more about more personal things - do you want a therapist with a similar lived experience or cultural background to you?

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Searching on platforms like PsychologyToday can be a great way to find therapists near you, or you can ask your family doctor for a referral.

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Read 22 Questions to Ask a New Therapist to learn more.

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4. How Much Does Therapy Cost?

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In Ontario, most private therapy practices charge anywhere from $50-$300 per hour to work.

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Here at KMA, your introductory session is 50 minutes and costs $190.‍

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This session is to learn more about you, match you with your ideal therapist, and get you started on the perfect plan of action for you.

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Your follow-up sessions are 50 minutes and cost $245.

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Your follow-up sessions are designed to produce results based on the goals from your intake session. You'll meet weekly or bi-weekly with your therapist and we'll check in regularly to ensure optimal results.

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There are a variety of factors that go into the price of therapy, including your therapist’s qualifications, the type of therapy they offer, and their session lengths.

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Read Is Therapy Worth the Cost to learn more.

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5. Does My Insurance Cover Therapy?

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The simple answer is, typically, yes. 

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As mental health becomes more and more of a priority, most workplace and private insurance providers will offer coverage for therapy.

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Our team at KMA Therapy includes registered psychotherapists and social workers who are all supervised by psychologists. As such, we are covered under psychological services, psychotherapeutic services, and social work services in Ontario.

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It’s always important to double-check with your insurance provider to be sure - and you can always connect with our team if you have any questions.

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Read Is Therapy Covered by Insurance to learn more.

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6. Can I Do Therapy Online?

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Yes, you can do therapy online. It’s often just as effective as in-person therapy for treating issues including anxiety and depression.

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Here at KMA Therapy, we offer online therapy services for clients located anywhere in Ontario. Therapy sessions happen over Zoom - we’ll send you a link, and you’re in with one simple click.

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Online therapy can be a great option if you prefer meeting with a therapist from the comfort of your own home, and you’re looking to avoid a lengthy commute to a great therapist.

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Online therapy may not be the right choice for you if you’re dealing with more complex mental health issues, as an in-person therapist may be better equipped to support you.

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Read How Does Online Therapy Work to learn more.

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7. What Type of Therapist Should I See?

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Psychologists, Socials Workers, and Psychotherapists can all help you greatly - but one may be a better fit for you than another.

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While many therapists can offer similar types of therapy services, only specific therapists can prescribe you medication or give you an official diagnosis.

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If you’re looking for an official diagnosis, you need to see a psychologist. If you’re looking for medication, you need to see a psychiatrist.

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Read What Type of Therapist Should I See to learn more.

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8. How Should I Prepare for My First Session?

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It can be comforting to know what to expect during your first therapy session, and asking your therapist about their plan can be a great place to start.

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Some other ways to prepare include:

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• Keeping an open mind about therapy, and being open to the possibility that it can help you
• Writing down specific topics and issues you want to cover - it can be easy to draw a blank if you’re a bit nervous during your first session!
• Being prepared to speak your mind about what’s bothering you - your needs, thoughts, and opinions are just as important as your therapist’s

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Read 3 Helpful Tips for Your First Therapy Session to learn more.

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9. How Do I Know if I Chose the Right Therapist?

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You’ll often have a gut sense of whether your therapist is a good fit - you know when you like someone, and when you feel comfortable around them.

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If your therapist is a good fit, you’ll feel:

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• Excited for sessions
• Like sessions are productive
• Comfortable and free to express your true feelings

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Read How to Know if Your Therapist is the Right Fit to learn more.

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10. How Do I Keep Making Progress in Therapy?

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Therapy is a big investment of your time, energy, and money - so you want to be sure it’s a good investment.

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You can continue to make good progress in therapy by:

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• Keeping up with any homework your therapist assigns
• Maintaining the momentum with consistent therapy sessions
• Being open and truthful about the issues and challenges you’re facing

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Read How to Make Better Progress in Therapy to learn more.

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Next Steps for Understanding Therapy

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After reading this article, you now know the answers to ten of the most frequently asked questions about therapy.

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Here at KMA Therapy, we’re passionate about equipping our community with the tools they need to thrive in therapy. If you still have more questions, feel free to connect with our caring team - we’re here for whatever you need.

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Book an appointment today if you’re ready to start the therapy process and see what it’s like for yourself.

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You deserve the support you need to feel satisfied and confident in your life and relationships - and we’re always here to help you get it.