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Frequently asked questions
How does online therapy work in Ontario?
All sessions take place virtually through a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform — no app download required. You'll receive a link before your session and can join from your phone, tablet, or computer.
What you'll need for virtual therapy:
• A private, comfortable space where you won't be interrupted
• A reliable internet connection
• Headphones (optional but recommended for privacy and audio quality)
Virtual therapy works — really works. Research consistently shows that online therapy is as effective as in-person therapy for trauma, anxiety, and most other mental health concerns. Many clients actually find it easier to settle into their own space than an office, and for nervous system work, being in a familiar environment can actively support the process.
Virtual therapy is also available to adults across Ontario — whether you're in Toronto, Ottawa, Hamilton, or a rural community with limited access to in-person mental health care
Do you offer a free consultation before I book?
Yes — always. Before we begin, I offer a free 15-minute phone or video consultation. It's a chance to connect, ask questions, get a feel for my approach, and decide whether working together feels right. There's no pitch and no pressure. If I'm not the right fit for what you're looking for, I'll do my best to point you toward someone who is. Book your free consultation at marlodragotherapy.janeapp.com.
Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Yes — and the research consistently backs this up.
Multiple studies have found that online therapy produces outcomes equivalent to in-person therapy for a wide range of concerns, including PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, and more. This holds true for EMDR therapy specifically — studies have shown that virtual EMDR is as effective as in-person EMDR for trauma processing.
For many clients, virtual therapy has additional advantages:
• No commute — you can show up from your own home, office, or wherever you feel most comfortable
• Increased privacy — no waiting rooms, no chance of running into someone you know
• Access across Ontario — you don't need to be in Toronto or a major city to access quality trauma therapy
• Nervous system benefits — for trauma work specifically, being in your own environment can actually support the healing process
At Marlo Drago Therapy, all sessions are delivered virtually to adults across Ontario. The connection is real, the work is real, and the results are real.
What's the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, and social worker?
This is a really common question — and the answer matters when you're trying to find the right support.
Psychiatrist:
A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health. They can diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe medication. They may offer therapy, but many focus primarily on medication management.
Psychologist:
A psychologist holds a doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) in psychology. They can conduct psychological assessments and provide therapy, but in most Canadian provinces cannot prescribe medication.
Registered Social Worker (RSW):
A Registered Social Worker (RSW) holds a degree in social work (BSW or MSW) and is regulated by a provincial college. Social workers are trained in mental health assessment, counselling, and psychotherapy — and many specialize in trauma, using approaches like EMDR and somatic therapy. Services provided by an RSW are often covered by extended health benefits.
Marlo Drago is a Registered Social Worker (MSW, RSW) and EMDR trained practitioner. She provides trauma-focused psychotherapy for adults across Ontario.
Do you offer therapy for teenagers in Ontario?
I work with adults and older teens ages 16 and up across Ontario.
If you're a parent looking for trauma therapy or mental health support for a younger teen (under 16), I'm happy to provide referrals to trusted colleagues who specialize in child and adolescent therapy.
Do you offer group therapy in Ontario?
Yes. Marlo Drago Therapy currently offers group therapy for adults across Ontario, delivered virtually. Current and upcoming groups include:• EMDR Resourcing Group — a closed biweekly cohort focused on building nervous system resources and stabilization skills using EMDR-based techniques. Ideal for people who are early in trauma work or need to build capacity before deeper processing.• Women's Support Group — a space for women to connect, be witnessed, and do meaningful work together around shared themes of identity, burnout, relationships, and self-worth. Group therapy offers something individual therapy can't — the experience of being truly seen and understood by others who get it. For many people, this in itself is deeply healing. Reach out through marlodrago.com to ask about current group availability and upcoming cohorts.
What are your session fees, and can you direct bill insurance?
Here’s the current fee guide for you: 25-minute session (current clients only) $125, 50-minute individual session $200, 85-minute individual session $300, family session (current clients only) $300, intensives (4 hours plus a 1-hour break) $1300, and group therapy $660 for 6 sessions. If you have extended health benefits, your plan may cover therapy with a Registered Social Worker. I direct bill to Telus eHealth and Sun Life, and I can provide receipts for other insurers.
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