Where are in-person sessions held?
In-person psychotherapy is available at Suite 200, 345 Lakeshore Road East in downtown Oakville.
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers before the conversation begins.
You do not need to understand every detail before reaching out. These answers cover the most common starting questions.
Beginning
Do I need a diagnosis or a clear explanation before contacting a therapist?
No. You can begin with a clearly defined concern or only a sense that something is no longer working. The introductory consultation is a place to describe what is happening and consider whether working together feels appropriate.
Who does Discern Counselling work with?
I work with adults and adolescents. Suitability and practical arrangements for an adolescent client are discussed during the introductory consultation.
Is online therapy available?
Yes. Online psychotherapy is available through OWL Practice to clients who are physically located in Ontario at the time of service.
What happens during the consultation?
The complimentary 20–30 minute consultation is an opportunity to share what brings you to therapy, ask practical questions and consider whether the fit feels right. It is not a commitment to continue.
What therapeutic approach does Renato use?
My work is informed by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and existential perspectives, with attention to psychological flexibility, values, agency, meaning and committed action.
Do I need to be religious?
No. People of any faith or no faith are welcome. Spirituality, religion and existential questions enter therapy only when they matter to you and are never imposed.
How do I book or make initial contact?
Use OWL to book directly, or make a brief initial enquiry by email or by calling or texting 647-331-3551. Please do not include detailed personal health information or use these channels for urgent support.
How are fees and insurance coverage handled?
Fees, payment arrangements and questions about possible insurance reimbursement can be discussed during the complimentary consultation before ongoing sessions are booked.
Crisis and urgent support
Can I use this website or social media for crisis support?
No. This website and the Discern Counselling social channels are not monitored for crisis support.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you are thinking about suicide in Canada, call or text 988. Otherwise, contact an appropriate local distress centre or urgent service.
Oakville Distress Centre: 905-849-4541
Burlington Distress Centre: 905-681-1488
Halton Hills/Milton Distress Centre: 905-877-1211
Hamilton Distress Centre: 905-561-5800
Still have a question?
The consultation is designed for that.
You can ask what you need to know, describe what brings you here and decide whether the next step feels right.
Ready to talk?