Question 1

Are you a coach? What’s the difference between a coach and a CCDP?

Accepted Answer

I am not a coach, though I use some coaching tools in my work. Coaching is a certified practice, but they are generally not focused exclusively on careers, and some coaches have little to no experience around careers.

I am a Certified Career Development Practitioner,(https://careercertification.ca/) which means that my focus is in the lifelong process of developing careers and how we as individuals evolve within them. The certification requires demonstration of ethics, knowledge, communication skills, and the strategies that we use to support our clients. It also means that we work specifically within the world of careers, and that we do regular professional development education to continue our own learning.

Question 2

What should I expect from my free consultation?

Accepted Answer

All of my services for individuals begin with a free 15-minute virtual consultation. This is where we’ll get to know each other and determine if we’re well-suited to working together. You’re not required to commit to anything on the spot.

Question 3

Are your career counselling services in-person or virtual?

Accepted Answer

I offer both options. In-person career counselling services are my ‘walk-and-talk’ sessions, and offer a unique opportunity to work together face-to-face. However, in-person career counselling services are currently only available to clients based in Toronto. If you’re outside the city, or local but prefer a video call, I’m happy to work virtually as well.

Question 4

What can I expect to get out of career counselling?

Accepted Answer

Career counselling is not one-size-fits-all, so outcomes depend on your goals, the effort you put in, and the state of the labour market.

That said, some common outcomes include:
• Feeling like work has a more important meaning
• Deeper understanding of your career interests and skills, and how these can be used
• Clearer career goals
• Knowledge of current labour market trends
• More compelling and persuasive job applications
• More effective job search strategies and a shorter job search
• A stronger professional network
• Confidence that you will achieve your professional goals
• Stronger belief that you are capable of shaping your career

Question 5

What does your process look like?

Accepted Answer

When you book your first session with me, you'll receive a form with a few questions to complete. From there, career counselling is not one-size-fits-all, so I adapt my process to each individual client. Through my training and work experience, I've compiled a toolbox full of theories, frameworks, exercises, templates, and strategies, and I pick and choose which ones to use as I get to know you and your goals. My approach is informed by evidence from the fields of career development, vocational psychology, and counselling psychology.

Question 6

How can I keep track of the things we discuss and the exercises I do?

Accepted Answer

It’s hard to remember all of the information that you soak up in our sessions! I use a client portal so that one link gives you private access to notes from our sessions together, along with any files we work on.

Question 7

What if I need to reschedule or cancel a session?

Accepted Answer

If you must reschedule or cancel a session, you can do so the button in your appointment confirmation or reminder email; however, I kindly request at least 24 hours' notice. Sessions rescheduled or cancelled less than 24 hours before the original booking's start time will result in a cancellation fee equal to 50% of the service booked, and future bookings will not be accepted until this fee has been paid. Thank you for respecting my time and being reliable.

Question 8

This sounds a bit like therapy. Are you a licensed psychotherapist? Are your services covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

No and no – unless your health insurance benefits cover services provided by Certified Career Development Practitioners (CCDPs). CCDPs like me counsel people on their careers and there is evidence that career development positively impacts clients’ mental health, but I am not a licensed mental health care provider and most health insurance plans do not currently cover CCDPs' services.

If you or I believe that you require mental health support alongside or instead of my services, I will strongly encourage you to speak with a licensed practitioner who is qualified to support you. Depending on your needs, I may even be able to refer you.

If you are currently employed and have a professional development budget, my services may be covered by that depending on your employer's requirements. This is something we can discuss during your free consultation.

Question 9

How much does career counselling cost, and how does payment work?

Accepted Answer

I offer two options:

1. Single Sessions: You can book appointments one at a time for $90 CAD/50 minutes and receive an invoice after each session. This is a great option for people who are looking for a little bit of support. If you find that ‘dream job’ while we’re working together - great! I’ll be the first one to say congratulations.

2. Power Hours: You can book a package of 4 sessions upfront and a receive a discounted per-session rate. This is a great option for people who are looking for more comprehensive support. Packages are available as 4 bi-weekly sessions or 1 half day retreat. Bi-weekly sessions are available both virtually and as walk-and-talk sessions, whereas half day retreats are virtual only. Packages are $320, and paid at the time of booking.

I issue invoices for both options through my client portal, and clients pay by credit card. If my payment processes are not accessible for you, I am also open to discussing alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions