FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • You can reach out to me directly, via the contact form on this website or by emailing me at dradinacoroiu@gmail.com to book a 15-minute free consultation.

  • The sessions will be conducted virtually using a secure platform.

    You will receive an email with a unique link prior to every session. All you have to do is click on the link in this email at the time of the appointment.

  • My fees are in the same range with other PhD-level psychologists practicing in Quebec and Ontario and are a reflection of my extensive educational credentials and clinical experience.

    Psychologist fees are province-dependent: they align with recommendations by the provincial licensing bodies for psychologists and the cost of living for the respective province.

    Please inquire via email for details.

  • Psychologist fees are covered by most insurances. It is the client’s resposibility to inquire about the services covered by their private insurance.

    I will issue a therapy receipt after I receive full payment for the session. You can submit this receipt to your insurance.

  • There are no guarantees that any particular client will benefit from any particular type of therapy.

    For any client to benefit from therapy a set of conditions have to be met, including a good fit with the therapy and therapist, having high motivation for change, being ready to address current difficulties, being able and willing to talk about and be instrospective about current difficulties.

    My practice is gounded in scientific evidence, which means that the therapies I practice have been supported by scientific research. This alone is a good starting point. In addition, I regularly ask for feedback from my clients, and adapt my approach to their needs.

  • Therapy is a collaborative and supportive process between a trained mental health professional and a client(s), aimed at addressing personal challenges, thoughts, and emotions as well as interpersonal dynamics within a safe and secure setting.

    The therapeutic approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client(s), building on personal strengths, and focusing on objectives like self-awareness and self-exploration, problem-solving, skill development, and improved mental health functioning.

    Therapy goals are set collaboratively with the client(s) and revisited periodically to ensure that both therapist and client(s) are on the same page.

    By identifying strengths and providing coping resources, therapy can empower individuals to face life’s challenges with confidence, ultimately fostering personal growth, understanding, reduction in symptoms, and healing.

  • Sometimes I assign brief exercises to practice in-between sessions. It is up to the client whether they complete the homework. Research has shown that in CBT therapy clients who complete homework tend to show better progress compared to clients who do not do homework.

    Generally speaking, reflecting in-between sessions on the content discussed during sessions is very helpful. Practicing skills learned in therapy outside of the therapy context is also a great way to make (and maintain) progress.

  • Realistically, this depends on the reasons you are seeking therapy and a few other factors. We can discuss this during the consultation and again during the assessment phase, if you choose to start therapy with me.

    Generally speaking most people who stay in therapy experience some benefit within the first 8-12 sessions. So if you think you are a good fit with a therapist, perhaps plan to allocate this much time to therapy from the start.

    If this many sessions are not feasible for you at this time, it is beneficial to also talk to your therapist about what is possible for you, so they can adjust the therapy goals and pace. That way you can make the best of your time and money.

  • In Canada, psychologists and psychotherapists are different types of mental health professionals, though their work may sometimes overlap.

    EDUCATION

    • A psychologist typically has a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology, meaning they have at least 7+ years of university training, including therapy & research. They are experts in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health disorders using evidence-based therapies. In Canada, the title “psychologist” is regulated so only individuals with the appropriate educational and licensing credentials can use it.

    • A psychotherapist typically has a master’s degree (1-2 years of training) and can come from various fields like social work, counselling, or nursing. They provide therapy but cannot diagnose mental health disorders—though they can help people manage mild symptoms. In some provinces, the title "psychotherapist" is not regulated, so qualifications can vary.

    LICENSING

    • Psychologists are licensed by provincial regulatory bodies (e.g., the Order of Psychologists of Québec or the College of Psychologists and Behavioural Analysts of Ontario), ensuring these practitioners meet high professional and ethical standards.

    • Psychotherapists practicing in Ontario must be registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. In Québec, they need a permit issued by the Order of Psychologists of Québec.

    When you need professional mental health support, understanding these differences can help you choose the right provider for your needs.