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Frequently asked questions
Therapy Questions
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps your brain process and heal from traumatic memories. Rather than talking through the details of a trauma in depth, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation — like eye movements or tapping — to help your nervous system "unstick" memories that have been stored in a distressing way. Over time, the memory loses its emotional charge, and you can recall it without feeling overwhelmed. It's gentle, it's effective, and it's one of the most researched approaches for trauma healing.
That's more common than you might think, and it doesn't mean therapy can't work for you — it may just mean the approach wasn't the right fit. Traditional talk therapy can sometimes fall short for trauma because it doesn't fully address what's happening in the body. My approach combines EMDR and nervous system regulation, which works differently than standard talk therapy. If you've been through therapy that felt surface-level or left you spinning, this might be the missing piece.
I recommend starting with weekly or bi-weekly 50m sessions for approximately 3 months to establish momentum and build a strong foundation for your progress. After this, we can reassess where we are in therapy and decide on frequency. Some clients like to alternate between 80m/50m sessions and 25m sessions every week to do trauma work and skills work on alternating weeks.
Your first session is all about getting to know you — there's no pressure to dive into anything before you're ready.
We'll start by talking about what brought you here, what you've been experiencing, and what you're hoping to feel or achieve. This is also a great opportunity for you to ask any questions and get a feel for how we work together.
Because we specialize in EMDR and nervous system regulation, we take a slow, intentional approach — especially in the beginning. Before any trauma processing begins, we focus on building safety and trust, both within our therapeutic relationship and within your own body. You won't be jumping straight into difficult memories on day one.
By the end of your first session, you'll have a clearer sense of what your healing journey might look like, and we'll start mapping out a plan that feels right for you.
Most people leave their first session feeling heard, a little lighter, and more hopeful than when they walked in.
I currently offer virtual sessions for people residing within Ontario. In 2027, I plan to start offering in-person sessions 1 day a week.
Research shows that both in-person and online therapy are equally effective, so the choice depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Online therapy offers flexibility and convenience, breaking down barriers to accessing skilled therapists while allowing you to connect from the comfort and safety of your home—especially helpful when discussing sensitive or distressing topics.
In contrast, in-person therapy may be ideal if you prefer face-to-face interaction, benefit from a structured environment, or find grounding techniques particularly effective in a physical setting.
All the types of therapy we offer can be accessed through either option, ensuring you have the support that suits you.
Individual Therapy:
Your appointment time is saved especially for you. If you are unable to attend the session, I require at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule the appointment. Missed appointments with less than 24 hours of notice will be charged at the full fee. This includes appointments that are made same-day. I am only able to waive the cancellation fee if there is a medical emergency requiring hospitalization, a death in the family, or a natural disaster. Please contact me at hello@marlodrago.com to discuss rescheduling.
Group Therapy:
Attending group therapy is a commitment to attend all 6 sessions. As such any missed sessions will be charged the full fee of $110.
I am only able to waive the cancellation fee if there is a medical emergency requiring hospitalization, a death in the family, or a natural disaster. There are no make up sessions due to the nature of the group.
All aspects of client involvement will be held in utmost confidence in accordance with the ethical guidelines and standards of practice set out by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. Personally identifiable information regarding clients is not discussed or disclosed, directly or indirectly, without the prior consent of the client. There are a few situations in which I am legally obliged to break confidentiality in order to protect the safety of a client or another individual. These include:• Risk of harm to self or another person• Suspected child abuse or neglect for a minor under the age of 16 (I am legally obligated to report to Children’s Aid Society under the Child and Family Service Act)• A court of law subpoenas clinical records regarding an incident (if possible, I will contact you before releasing any information).
2026 rates:
Individual Therapy:
25min session: $125.00
50min session: $210
85minute session: $315
50min Family Session (for current clients only): $300
Intensives (4hrs plus 1 hr break) : $1008
Group Therapy:
$660/6 90min sessions
All sessions are conducted by master’s-level social worker (MSW), Registered Social Workers (RSWs). Most insurance plans cover our services. We recommend confirming coverage directly with your provider.
We accept insurance through Telus E-claims
Yes. With consent from my client, I use an AI notetaking software to write my session notes. Clients are able to revoke consent to this at any time. With this software, sessions are listened to and summarized. There are NO STORED RECORDINGS of the sessions. This allows me to focus on our session and give you, my client, my undivided attention.
There's no one-size-fits-all answer here — healing isn't linear, and everyone's journey looks different. That said, most clients start to notice meaningful shifts within the first few months, especially with consistent weekly or bi-weekly sessions. Some people work with me short-term to address a specific issue, while others choose to go deeper over a longer period. We'll regularly check in on your progress and adjust the plan as you grow.
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