Online therapy in Ontario
Secure video sessions with the same therapists, fees and receipts as our office. For adults and couples anywhere in Ontario.
Overview
Online sessions work the same way as sessions in our office. You join from a private room on a computer, tablet or phone, using a secure video platform built for health care. We can see you by video when you are in Ontario at the time of the session, because our registration with the CRPO covers practice in Ontario. Many clients mix online and in-person sessions depending on the week.
- Secure video built into our booking system
- No app download needed
- Clients anywhere in Ontario
- Same fees and receipts as in-person sessions
- Tips to set up a private space at home
How a video session works
A video session follows the same plan as a session in our office. Here is what is different.
A link by email
The day before, you get an email with a link to join. It opens in your browser. You do not need to download an app or make an account.
A quick check at the start
Your therapist confirms where you are and a phone number to call if the video drops. Then the session runs as it would in our office.
In person when you want
You can mix video and office sessions. Many clients come in during the summer and switch to video in winter.
A private space at home
You do not need a special room. You need an hour where no one can hear you. These four things help most.
Close a door
A bedroom, a home office or a parked car all work. Tell people at home you need the hour.
Wear headphones
Then only you hear your therapist. A white noise app outside the door helps too.
Light your face
Sit facing a window or a lamp, so your therapist can see your expression.
Give yourself ten minutes
Keep a glass of water close, and leave a little time after the session before your next call.
You need to be in Ontario for each session, because our CRPO registration covers practice in Ontario.
Book a 15-minute call
Clients often come to us with
- Clients outside Ottawa, anywhere in Ontario
- Parents who cannot leave home in the evening
- Busy weeks with no time to travel
- Winter roads and early dark
- Anyone who feels more at ease at home
Not on the list? Ask on your first call. If we are not the right fit, we will suggest someone who is.
Who you could see
Read each therapist's training and approaches on the about page.
Maren CastellanosRegistered Psychotherapist
Maren opened Larchmere in 2019. She sees adults dealing with anxiety, stress at work and big changes such as a move or a new baby. She likes to agree on a small, practical goal in the first few sessions.
Idris Okonkwo-BellRegistered Psychotherapist
Idris sees most of our couples. Many come in because the same argument keeps coming back. He works with married, common-law and dating couples, and with partners deciding whether to stay together.
Wren TakahashiRegistered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Wren sees adults in person and by video, mostly in the evening. As a qualifying registrant, Wren meets with a clinical supervisor each week. Sessions with Wren cost less.
Questions about online therapy
Ask anything else on your first call. It is free and takes about 15 minutes.
Is video as private as the office?
The platform encrypts each session and stores nothing. At home, a closed door and headphones do most of the work. We share tips below.
Can I join from outside Ontario?
No. Our registration with the CRPO covers practice in Ontario, so you need to be in Ontario at the time of each session.
Is therapy covered by my health plan?
Many extended health plans cover sessions with a Registered Psychotherapist. Check your plan's yearly maximum and whether it covers psychotherapy before your first session.
What should I do if I am in crisis?
We cannot offer crisis support between sessions. Call or text 9-8-8 at any time. In Ottawa, you can also call the Distress Centre at 613-238-3311. If you are in danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.