Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about starting therapy, insurance coverage, session formats, and what to expect during your therapeutic journey with us.
In Crisis? Get Help Now
Our administrative and clinical intake channels are not monitored 24 hours a day. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, suicidal ideation, or immediate safety risks, please contact crisis resources immediately.
Therapy & Clinical Questions
Registered Social Workers (RSWs) and psychologists both provide evidence-based psychotherapy and mental health support. In Ontario, RSWs hold a Master of Social Work degree and are regulated by the OCSWSSW. While psychologists can perform formal diagnostic assessments, social workers focus on practical, client-centered therapeutic support that integrates the person within their social and family environment.
Therapist fit is the single most important factor in successful therapy. We offer free 15-minute consultations to help you speak with a therapist, discuss your goals, and assess your comfort level before booking a full session. We also back this with our Right Fit Guarantee: if your first session isn’t the right fit, your next session with a new Better Minds therapist is on us.
The first session is a collaborative assessment. Your therapist will ask about what has been happening, how it is impacting your daily life, and what goals you hope to achieve. You do not need to have everything figured out; it is simply an open, respectful conversation to establish a safe foundation for our work together.
We offer a hybrid practice model. You can attend in-person sessions at our comfortable office located at 159 Albert Street (Upper Unit) in London, Ontario, or choose secure, encrypted virtual video or phone sessions from anywhere in Ontario.
Fees, Insurance & Policies
Yes, most extended health care plans in Ontario cover services provided by Registered Social Workers (RSWs). We recommend contacting your insurance provider prior to your first session to confirm your specific coverage limits, deductible requirements, and whether they accept RSW receipts.
Yes, we offer direct billing to many major insurance companies where available. If direct billing is not supported by your specific plan, we will issue a detailed receipt with all required registration numbers and credentials that you can submit for reimbursement.
We maintain a strict 48-hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel or reschedule your session, please provide at least 48 hours notice. Sessions cancelled or missed with less than 48 hours notice are subject to the full session fee, as that time was reserved exclusively for you.
Yes, we believe mental health support should be accessible. We offer a sliding fee scale for some clients based on financial need and therapist availability. Please contact us directly to discuss your circumstances and see if we have sliding scale openings.
Regulated Mental Health Standards
All clinical therapy services at Better Minds Counselling are provided by Registered Social Workers in good standing with The Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Social work is a regulated health profession in Ontario, ensuring accountability, ethical practice, and high professional standards.
Still Have Questions About Starting Therapy?
We are here to help you navigate this process. Book a free, confidential 15-minute consultation to speak directly with an intake specialist or therapist.
Book a Free 15-Minute Consultation