INTERACTION

CONSULTANTS

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Marital Therapy?

Marital Therapy Explained 

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Think your teen (or child) needs counselling?

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Counselling: Knowing your options

Boundary issues in the client/therapist relationship...

Step-family Troubles

Step-family life can be rewarding and fulfilling. It can also be a challenge and for some, an absolute nightmare.

Finding balance in a complex family requires much discussion and flexibility.

If there are issues with a child's behavior, or worse complications arising from unresolved or ongoing issues with a former partner, then the stage may be set to undermine the couple relationship.

Counseling for step-family troubles addresses any of the multitude of issues you may find yourself in.

In terms of approach, I only start by meeting with the parents first. You are the head of this household and often when matters are addressed and strategies facilitated to improve step-family life, issues with kids can subside. No guarantees, but that is the starting point.

My first meeting is scheduled for 3 hours to prove a good amount of time to share necessary information and hopefully get a jump on moving matters to a better direction. We don't need to use all the time and you will only be billed for time used, but if needed, that time is there.

Parents may self-refer for this service.

Please note, I no longer involve myself with court processes. Counseling is provided on a closed basis, meaning you must agree that you or your designate or proxy will not call me to court or ask to provide a report for court purposes.

Fees:

As a social worker, I am respectful of people's different income levels. As such, the fee is set on a fee-for-service basis using a sliding scale that ranges from $150 - $400 per hour. The actual fee then is determined by your joint income, or may be determined by your assets. You will be charged from the beginning of the scheduled appointment time, even if you are late. Appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours (two full business days) will be billed for one hour. Further, time will be taken at the beginning of the first meeting for me to present my qualifications, experience and approach to counselling so that service is provided on an informed basis. This is deemed part of the time provided and billed for. Payment can be provided by cash, eTransfer or cheque.

Fee Schedule (based on joint income):

Third Party Payments (EAP and other Benefit Providers):

Pleased be advised that I do not accept payment by third party payers (benefit or EAP providers) whatsoever. People are directly responsible for payment of services as per the information above at the time of service. A receipt will be provided with which persons can seek reimbursement from their EAP or benefit provider. I take no responsibility for your reimbursement. Reimbursement remains a matter between you and your benefit or EAP provider. 

If you do seek reimbursement through your benefit or EAP provider and I am called to verify the charge, I will do so with your implied consent. My disclosure will be limited to advising of my credentials as well as verifying the billing information, service provided and persons served. Please note, assessment is a clinical-legal service and may not be covered.  No information regarding the nature or content of information discussed will be provided.

 Other:

1. Counseling is provided on a private and discreet basis.
2. Service is provided only through ZOOM.
3. Appointments are available Monday through Wednesday. Evening appointments are available. I typically set my appointment times for 9:30 am, 1:30 pm and 7:00 pm. I do not offer weekend appointments. Summer hours may be restricted - please ask.
4. Persons may self-refer. Please call.
5. Persons are expected to attend sober for appointments.
6. Violence of any fashion will not be condoned.

 Confidentiality:

All matters remain confidential with the following exceptions:

1. Any past or imminent harm or abuse to a child currently younger than 18 years of age will be reported to proper authorities.
2. Any imminent threat of harm to self or to another adult will be reported either to proper authorities and/or to other persons who may be required to intervene as necessary.
3. Counseling is provided on a closed basis, meaning you must agree that you or your designate or proxy will not call me to court or ask to provide a report for court purposes.
4. For quality assurance and in case of concern or complaint about service, all meetings will be recorded.
5. Information about yourself can be used to pursue payment in the event of non-payment.

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Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW

www.yoursocialworker.com 

gary@yoursocialworker.com

(905) 628-4847

Gary Direnfeld is considered a child-behaviour expert, a social worker, author of Raising Kids Without Raising Cane and Marriage Rescue: Overcoming Ten Deadly Sins in a Failing Relationship. Gary not only helps people get along or feel better about themselves, but also enjoys an extensive career in public speaking. He provides insight on issues ranging from child behaviour management and development; to family life; to socially responsible business development and management. Courts in Ontario, Canada consider Gary an expert on matters pertaining to child development, custody and access, family/marital therapy and social work.