Frequently Asked Questions Genovese Trauma & PTSD Recovery

I am a Registered Psychologist with specialized training and certification in evidence-based trauma treatments, including:

• Certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy
• Certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD
• Certification in Prolonged Exposure Therapy
• EMDR consultant in training (providing professional consultation to other EMDR practitioners)

Certification in these therapies involves advanced training, extensive professional consultations, treating a high volume of clients with proven success, and meeting rigorous professional standards. These credentials ensure I provide the highest quality care and stay current with the most effective, evidence-based treatment methods.

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with diverse populations affected by trauma, including individuals who have experienced sexual assault, workplace injuries, and military service-related trauma. My experience also extends to providing trauma therapy for first responders, healthcare workers, and veterans.

In addition to my trauma therapy work, I have held positions at the Sexual Assault Centre of Edmonton and the University of Alberta Sexual Assault Centre, where I supported individuals coping with the emotional and psychological aftermath of traumatic experiences.

With this extensive training and experience, I provide tailored, evidence-based trauma therapy that promotes lasting healing and recovery.

Absolutely. Trauma can be effectively treated no matter how long ago it happened. The brain’s ability to heal and reorganize itself—known as neuroplasticity—means that meaningful recovery is always possible.

Many of my clients begin therapy years or even decades after their traumatic experiences and still achieve significant healing. Evidence-based trauma treatments like EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Prolonged Exposure (PE) are designed to help the brain process and integrate traumatic memories that have remained "stuck" in the nervous system over time.

It's never too late to recover. Reaching out now is a powerful step toward reclaiming your life and finding lasting relief.

Your first consultation will typically be a short phone call designed to get to know each other and determine if we are a good fit for working together.

During this initial call, we’ll discuss your background, relevant history, and any concerns you may have—at a pace that feels comfortable for you. I’ll explain my approach to trauma therapy, answer any questions you have, and explore your goals for therapy. Based on this information, we’ll start to develop a personalized treatment plan.

It's important to note that you won’t be asked to share detailed information about your trauma during this first consultation. The focus is on establishing safety, building rapport, and creating a treatment framework that aligns with your specific needs.

Many clients experience significant symptom relief within just 3-4 sessions. However, the total length of therapy depends on several factors:

• The nature and complexity of your issues: Whether you're addressing a single traumatic event or multiple, complex traumas.
• Your specific therapy goals: The depth and focus of your treatment plan.
• Your body and mind's response to treatment: How quickly you progress with the therapeutic approach.

Throughout your therapy journey, your progress will be regularly assessed to ensure we're on track. Based on your needs, adjustments can be made to the treatment plan to maximize effectiveness.

Most of my clients find that they do not require ongoing support once their treatment plan is complete, experiencing lasting relief and improvement.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the trauma treatments I offer is that most clients don’t require ongoing support once our work together is complete. The evidence-based approaches I use—such as EMDR, Prolonged Exposure, and Cognitive Processing Therapy—are designed to promote lasting change, not long-term dependence on therapy.

After completing the treatment plan and reaching your goals, many clients find they have the tools, insight, and resilience to maintain their progress. In fact, the brain’s healing from trauma-focused therapies like EMDR often continues to strengthen even after sessions have ended.

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of our work together. What you share in therapy is kept private, with a few important exceptions required by law and professional ethics.

Situations where I may need to break confidentiality include:

• If there is a risk of serious harm to yourself or others (e.g., suicidal or homicidal intent)
• Suspected child abuse or neglect
• Abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult
• A court order requiring disclosure
• Insurance or WCB claims (limited information necessary for billing or claims)

If you are referred through WCB or another third-party provider, I will explain exactly what information is shared before we begin. Typically, this includes general information such as your diagnosis, treatment plan, and progress updates—but not the specific details of what you share in therapy.

If you ever have questions or concerns about confidentiality, I’m always happy to talk them through with you. My goal is to create a safe, respectful space where you feel comfortable and in control of your personal information.

Yes, I offer secure virtual therapy sessions for clients throughout Alberta. This makes it possible to reach those dealing with trauma outside our physical location in Edmonton. Online sessions provide the same evidence-based treatment approaches as in-person therapy, including EMDR and other trauma-focused therapies.

All virtual sessions are conducted through a secure platform that complies with privacy regulations. You'll be provided with simple instructions to help you connect, and we can address any technical questions before your first online session.

Yes, I work with both private insurance providers and WCB claims.

If you have questions about coverage or claims, please don't hesitate to ask. You can also find more information on direct billing services on the Rates and Coverage page.

My fees are structured in accordance with the Psychologists' Association of Alberta's recommended fee schedule. Currently, my session fees are:

• Individual 50-minute session: $235
• Individual 80-minute session: $352.50

If you have any questions about coverage or claims, please feel free to reach out. You can also find more details about my direct billing services on my rates and coverage page.

I understand that circumstances sometimes require rescheduling or cancellation. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please notify me at least two business days in advance. Cancellations made with less than two business days' notice will incur a charge for the full session.

This policy reflects the reality that when appointments are reserved for you, that time cannot be offered to other clients who may be waiting for services. Your understanding is appreciated.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, please contact me as soon as possible by phone or email.