Confidentiality & FAQ's

Confidentiality & FAQ's

Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a foundational element of psychotherapy and essential to creating a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Information shared in therapy is treated with the utmost respect and kept confidential in accordance with professional ethical standards and applicable laws.


There are specific and limited circumstances in which confidentiality may need to be broken. These include situations involving risk of serious harm to yourself or others, suspected abuse or neglect as required by law, or when information is released with your written consent. These limits to confidentiality will be discussed during your initial session, and you are always encouraged to ask questions if anything is unclear.


For couples and family therapy, confidentiality and information sharing are
addressed openly at the outset of treatment to ensure clarity and shared
understanding for all involved.


For educational, consulting, or organizational work, confidentiality is approached
differently than in psychotherapy. While professionalism, discretion, and
psychological safety are always prioritised, these services are not therapy and do not carry the same legal confidentiality protections. The scope and expectations
regarding confidentiality are clearly discussed at the beginning of each engagement.


Please see our Privacy Policy for information on how personal information is
collected, used, and protected.

FAQ's

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a collaborative process of working with a trained professional to
better understand challenges, reduce distress, and support meaningful change. Through conversation and guided reflection, therapy provides a structured and confidential space to explore thoughts, emotions, relationships, and patterns that may be affecting well-being.


People seek psychotherapy for many reasons, including navigating life transitions, relationship difficulties, stress, anxiety, loss, or a desire for personal growth. Therapy is not only about resolving problems but also about developing insight, resilience, and greater psychological flexibility.

Psychotherapy is provided by specially trained mental health professionals, including psychologists, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, marriage and family therapists, and
counselors.

What is Positive Psychology and how is it different from traditional psychology?

Positive Psychology is the scientific study of well-being, resilience, and the
conditions that help individuals and relationships flourish. Traditional psychotherapy
often focuses on reducing distress and addressing psychological difficulties. Positive
Psychology complements this work by helping people build strengths, meaning,
connection, and sustainable well-being.

Rather than viewing mental health only as the absence of problems, this integrated approach supports both healing and growth. Therapy may involve reducing symptoms while also developing psychological resources that support greater fulfillment and resilience.


Lorrie holds a Master’s Degree in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of
Pennsylvania and integrates the science of well-being with traditional psychotherapy
to create a balanced, evidence-informed approach.

What if I am not sure therapy is right for me?

It is common to feel uncertain or hesitant about starting therapy. You do not need to
arrive with clear answers or defined goals. Therapy can begin as a conversation and
a space to explore what is bringing you here and whether this feels like a helpful next
step.

Some of the things I want to talk about are very personal or embarrassing, is that OK?

Yes. Many people hesitate to begin therapy because the concerns they carry feel
private, vulnerable, or difficult to put into words. It takes courage to speak about
experiences that may feel uncomfortable, confusing, or even shameful.


Therapy provides a confidential and non-judgmental space where you can explore
these concerns at your own pace. You are not expected to share everything at once.
The process unfolds gradually, and you decide what feels safe to discuss.

How long are sessions, and how often do we meet?

Sessions are typically 50 minutes in length. The frequency of sessions is tailored to
your needs and goals and is discussed collaboratively. Some clients begin with
weekly or biweekly sessions, with adjustments made as the work progresses.

How long does therapy last?

There is no set timeline for therapy. Some clients seek short-term support around a
particular concern, while others engage in longer-term work focused on deeper
patterns, life transitions, or ongoing personal growth and support. Goals and
progress are revisited regularly so the work remains meaningful and responsive to
your needs.

Is therapy confidential if I am referred by an organization or employer?

Yes. If you are attending therapy as an individual client, confidentiality applies
regardless of how you were referred. No information is shared with an employer or
organization without your explicit written consent, except where required by law. Any
limits to confidentiality will be discussed clearly at the outset so you understand how your information is protected.

What are your fees and cancellation policy?

Fees and payment arrangements are discussed before or at the first session so that expectations are clear. Insurance coverage varies, and clients are encouraged to confirm their benefits directly with their insurance provider. Payment may be made by credit card or online transfer.


Appointments cancelled or rescheduled with less than 24 hours’ notice, as well as
missed appointments, are subject to the full session fee, as this time has been
reserved specifically for you.

Do you offer consultations for organizations or educational settings?

Yes. In addition to psychotherapy, Lorrie provides consultation, education, and
organizational services. These engagements are separate from therapy and are tailored to the needs of each organization. Scope, expectations, and goals are
clarified directly at the outset of the engagement.

How do I get started?

You can start by reaching out via phone or email. Lorrie will respond as soon as
possible to discuss current availability and next steps. Due to capacity, her caseload
may at times be full and she may not be accepting new clients, and this will be
communicated openly when you inquire.


If you have questions that are not addressed here, you are welcome to reach out. An initial conversation can help clarify your needs and determine whether moving
forward together feels appropriate.