Can virtual therapy be effective?

Research supports virtual therapy for many clients and concerns, including some anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship presentations. It is not suitable for everyone or every situation, and outcomes depend on multiple clinical and personal factors.

What do I need for a virtual therapy session?

A device (phone, tablet, or computer), a stable internet connection, headphones, and a private space where you won't be overheard. Andrew uses a secure, PHIPA-compliant platform. No special software download is required.

Is virtual therapy confidential?

Yes. Andrew uses an encrypted, PHIPA-compliant video platform. Sessions are not recorded. Standard professional confidentiality applies — the same as in-person sessions.

Does extended health insurance cover virtual therapy sessions?

Some extended health plans reimburse virtual services provided by an RSW. Eligibility, reimbursement rates, authorization requirements, and direct-billing availability vary by plan. Confirm them with your insurer before your first session.

Can I switch between virtual and in-person sessions?

Yes. Many clients alternate based on schedule or preference — virtual when time is tight or they're travelling, in-person when they prefer face-to-face contact. Andrew is flexible and can work with whatever format suits you best.

Virtual Therapy Across Ontario | Garnet Counselling

The Same Quality of Care — Without the Commute

Virtual therapy is a well-established option for many types of counselling. Research supports online delivery for a range of anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship concerns, while individual suitability and outcomes vary.

For many clients, virtual sessions are actually preferable: there's no commute, no waiting room, and you can attend from wherever you feel most comfortable and private — whether that's your home office, your car, or a quiet lunch break at work.

How Virtual Sessions Work

Andrew uses a secure video platform configured for Ontario healthcare privacy requirements. Sessions are not recorded by Garnet Counselling. Platform and privacy details are available before your first virtual appointment.

Book online — via Jane App at agarnetcounselling.janeapp.com
Receive a secure link — via email before your appointment
Join from any device — laptop, tablet, or phone — with a camera and microphone
Find a private space — where you won't be interrupted or overheard
Session runs just like in-person — 50 minutes, full focus, complete confidentiality

Is Virtual Therapy Right for You?

Virtual sessions work well for most people and most concerns. They may be especially appealing if:

You're located outside Scarborough but within Ontario
Your schedule makes commuting difficult
You prefer the privacy of attending from home
You're in a period of reduced mobility or managing a health condition
You're a shift worker who needs flexible scheduling

There are some situations where in-person sessions may be recommended — Andrew will discuss this during your consultation.

Privacy and Security

Your privacy is paramount. The platform used for virtual sessions is:

End-to-end encrypted
PHIPA-compliant (Ontario privacy law)
PIPEDA-compliant (federal Canadian privacy law)
Hosted on Canadian servers
No session recordings are made without your explicit consent

For your part, Andrew recommends attending from a private space where you feel comfortable speaking openly, using headphones if possible, and letting household members know you need uninterrupted time.

Privacy Standards

✓ PHIPA Compliant
✓ PIPEDA Compliant
✓ End-to-End Encrypted
✓ Canadian Servers
✓ No Session Recordings

Session Fees

Individual$180

Couples$200

Same fees as in-person. Direct billing available.

Evidence & Further Reading

Authoritative Sources

These resources provide general evidence and guidance. They do not determine whether a particular approach is suitable for an individual.

Virtual mental health privacy guidance — Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Electronic practice and professional responsibilities — Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can virtual therapy be effective?: Research supports virtual therapy for many clients and concerns, including some anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship presentations. It is not suitable for everyone or every situation, and outcomes depend on multiple clinical and personal factors.
What do I need for a virtual therapy session?: A device (phone, tablet, or computer), a stable internet connection, headphones, and a private space where you won't be overheard. Andrew uses a secure, PHIPA-compliant platform. No special software download is required.
Is virtual therapy confidential?: Yes. Andrew uses an encrypted, PHIPA-compliant video platform. Sessions are not recorded. Standard professional confidentiality applies — the same as in-person sessions.
Does extended health insurance cover virtual therapy sessions?: Some extended health plans reimburse virtual services provided by an RSW. Eligibility, reimbursement rates, authorization requirements, and direct-billing availability vary by plan. Confirm them with your insurer before your first session.
Can I switch between virtual and in-person sessions?: Yes. Many clients alternate based on schedule or preference — virtual when time is tight or they're travelling, in-person when they prefer face-to-face contact. Andrew is flexible and can work with whatever format suits you best.

Virtual Therapy Across Ontario