Couple Counselling

While this practice primarily focuses on women and the grief associated with losing a deeply wanted pregnancy, there are times when shifting the counselling focus to the relationship with their partner becomes essential. Literature on perinatal loss highlights significant differences in how men and women grieve, often leading to misunderstandings and confusion about how each partner is coping.

 

Men often struggle to voice their feelings, choosing instead to stay busy and concentrate on their partner’s emotional well-being. This can result in avoiding their own feelings of disappointment and sadness. Women may interpret their partner’s reluctance to discuss the loss as an indication that they have "moved on" or are "over it." However, when men participate in counselling sessions, they often experience a release of emotions that have been suppressed for weeks or months following the loss.

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In many joint sessions, women express sentiments like, “I had no idea you felt that way.” The gentle exploration of the partner’s emotional journey, facilitated by a neutral third party, often leads to a deeper mutual understanding of their shared loss. Couple counselling provides a safe, supportive space for dialogue where both partners can openly express their feelings.

 

Seeking support as a couple can also help ease tensions in the relationship and serve as a starting point for exploring complex decisions, such as "trying again."

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Counselling Fees

My counselling fees are not covered by OHIP although many have coverage through extended health benefits plans provided by their employers. As a therapist with designation as a Registered Social Worker (RSW), many clients are eligible for reimbursement of fees. Benefits packages through companies such as Sun Life, Blue Cross, Great West Life Insurance and Greenshield Canada can provide coverage for counselling services. Please check your employee benefits package to determine your individual coverage.

Any counselling expenses not covered by third party insurance benefits can be claimed as medical expenses when you file your annual income tax return. As a Registered Social Worker, I am considered an authorized ‘medical practitioner’, allowing you to claim counselling fees as a medical expense.

Clients are not charged for telephone consultations prior to initial counselling sessions. The fee for a 60-75 minute counselling session is $135.00. Payments are generally made by etransfer to jgcounselling@rogers.com after each session. Formal receipts are provided.