Question 1

01  What is Complex Trauma, and how do I know if it applies to me?

Accepted Answer

Many people who reach out for therapy don't realize they may be experiencing  symptoms associated with complex trauma. Complex trauma is not a formal  diagnosis—it's a term used to describe a collection of symptoms that often  develop from repeated or prolonged difficult experiences, particularly in early  relationships where we should have felt safe.

I am not qualified to diagnose any condition, but I have specialized training in  recognizing and working effectively with these symptoms. You might be experiencing  symptoms associated with complex trauma if you notice: 
 • Difficulty trusting others or feeling safe in relationships  
 • Intense emotional reactions that feel hard to control  
 • Persistent feelings of shame, guilt, or feeling "different" from others  
 • Challenges with self-worth or identity  
 • Physical symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, or digestive issues  
 • Difficulty concentrating or feeling "foggy"  
 • Hypervigilance or always feeling "on edge"  
 • Patterns of disconnecting from yourself or your surroundings

These symptoms aren't a sign of weakness—they're natural responses to overwhelming  experiences. Healing is possible, and you don't need a formal diagnosis to begin. I  offer effective, evidence-based approaches for working with these symptoms,  regardless of whether you have a diagnosis or not.

Question 2

02  Do you offer a free consultation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I offer a free 20-minute consultation. This is an opportunity for us to connect, for  you to ask questions, and to see whether we might be a good fit to work together.  There's no pressure or obligation—this time is simply to help you make an informed  decision about your care.

Question 3

03  What are your fees?

Accepted Answer

• $190 for a 50-60 minute session  
 • $285 for an 80-90 minute session
What's included in these fees: My fees reflect my commitment to providing  specialized, trauma-informed care. This includes:  
 • Specialized training in working with complex trauma symptoms and  neuroscience-informed approaches  
 • Administrative work, such as consulting with other members of your  treatment team, report writing, and documentation (billed when exceeding  10 minutes)  
 • Ongoing consultation to ensure evidence-based, current best practices  
 • Secure, PIHIPA-compliant systems to protect your privacy  
 • Individualized care that honors your unique healing journey  
Working with complex trauma symptoms requires specialized knowledge and ongoing  learning. I invest significantly in training and consultation to ensure I can provide you  with the most effective, compassionate care possible.

Question 4

04  Are counselling fees taxed?

Accepted Answer

Counselling fees are HST exempt. Many extended health benefits plans cover services  provided by a Registered Social Worker. Any fees not covered by insurance can be  claimed as a medical tax deduction on your CRA tax return. I'm happy to provide  receipts that meet the requirements for both insurance claims and tax purposes.  I'm also a registered provider with Telus eHealth for various insurance companies and  WSIB. Please verify with your Extended Health Benefits whether they cover Registered  Social Worker services and offer direct billing. If available, we can set this up together to  streamline your access to benefits.

Question 5

05  How many therapy sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

This is one of the most common questions, and it's important to know that healing isn't  linear and looks different for everyone. When working with symptoms associated with  complex trauma, you may be able to expect something like this:

• Initial phase (4-8 sessions): We focus on building safety, establishing  trust, and understanding your goals  
 • Middle phase (variable): We work on processing experiences,  developing new skills, and addressing symptoms as they arise  
 • Later phase: We focus on integration, strengthening your sense of self,  and preparing for ending or spacing out sessions.

Some clients find benefit in short-term work (12-20 sessions), while others engage in  longer-term therapy (6 months to several years). These symptoms often develop over  time, and healing typically happens gradually as well. We'll regularly check in together  about your progress and what feels helpful to you. You're always in control of the pace  and duration of our work together. Some clients prefer weekly sessions, while others  find bi-weekly sessions more sustainable to start.

Question 6

06  Do you offer online counselling?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I offer secure online counselling to residents of Ontario who are physically located  in Ontario. Sessions are conducted through a PHIPA-compliant, encrypted telehealth  video platform, or by phone if you prefer. Many clients find online therapy particularly  helpful when:

• Leaving home feels overwhelming  
 • Transportation is a barrier  
 • You need the comfort of your own safe space  
 • Scheduling flexibility is important

Question 7

07  Do you offer in-person sessions?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in-person sessions are available in downtown Guelph on Mondays. Some clients  prefer the structure and containment of in-person work, while others find online sessions  more accessible. We can discuss what might work best for you.

Question 8

08  When is payment due, and how can I pay?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due immediately after each session. I accept:

• E-transfer (preferred)  
 • Credit card

Question 9

09  What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

24-hour notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling. Without 24-hour notice, the  full session fee will be charged.  I understand that life happens, and sometimes circumstances beyond our control  interfere with our plans. In cases of genuine emergency, this fee may be waived at my  discretion.

Why this policy matters: Consistent attendance supports the therapeutic process,  especially when healing from complex trauma symptoms. Your session time is reserved  exclusively for you, and this policy ensures I can maintain availability for all clients. If  you're finding it difficult to attend sessions regularly, let's talk about it—this itself can be  important therapeutic material.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lisa Clendening, BEd, MSW, RSW (she/her), Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist

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