Medical Assistance in Dying Therapy Support in Ontario
End-of-life decisions carry weight. I provide online psychotherapy across Ontario for people engaging MAiD and for families who want steady, nonjudgmental support. We work with fear, guilt, relief, and love. We clarify roles, plan conversations, and hold space for meaning and grief before and after death.
Who Do You Support?
Individuals considering MAiD and their loved ones.
What Do Sessions Focus On?
Preparation, communication, coping skills, and grief support.
Where do sessions happen?
Online across Ontario, including Kitchener, Toronto, and the GTA
Why I Offer MAiD Therapy Online
One of the most meaningful parts of my work over the past 10 years has been walking with individuals and their families at end of life. I can still remember every person I’ve companioned with through their MAiD experiences in home and in hospital since 2017. There are common therapeutic themes that come up for most clients – often within the spiritual realm of meaning-making, legacy, hope and peace.
I have met with people in home, hospital and long term care who are exploring their options and need support to understand their feelings and find inner-peace with themselves in the midst of significant decision-making. And not only the individual, but their families who are often grappling with many complex feelings. I offer online support across Ontario for people and their loved ones seeking Medical Assistance in Dying therapy. You can read more about me HERE.
If you’re seeking Medical Assistance in Dying psychotherapy and looking for someone who has experience in walking with people through the process of grief, relief, fear, confusion, I’m glad you’re here and I hope we get a chance to meet.
HOW ONLINE MAiD THERAPY HELPS
I’m so glad to be able to offer Medical Assistance in Dying Therapy online and include secure video sessions so families can gather from geographic distances. Whether you’re at home or in hospital in London, Ottawa, Toronto, or anywhere in Ontario, Medical Assistance in Dying therapy is available.
Flexible scheduling: video sessions can accommodate rest, appointments and energy levels.
Easily claimable: most Ontario extended health plans reimburse Registered Psychotherapist services (session receipt provided).
Who I Support:
Family members, partners, or caregivers wrestling with complex emotions.
Anyone seeking a safe and non-judgmental space to process and prepare, without an agenda or rushed resolution.
MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IN DYING THERAPY OFFERS
- A clear, calm space to explore this choice
- Emotional safety as you unpack grief, relief, guilt, or doubt
- Decision support that honors your pace and context
- Preparation that is practical, emotional and spiritual to help you get ready for your next steps
- Compassionate care for caregivers and loved ones intertwined in this journey
What Happens in a Free Consult?
Your 20 minute consult is a no-pressure conversation.
– Talk about what’s weighing on you
– Learn how I approach recovery and what sessions will be like
– Decide if we’re the right fit
You’ll leave with clarity on your next step, whether we work together or not.
Erika Mills is a Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario and a CASC/ACSS Supervisor-Educator. She has supported individuals and families at end of life since 2017 in home, hospital, and long-term care. Her work focuses on decision clarity, communication, grief, and meaning-making. Erika provides secure online psychotherapy across Ontario.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Medical Assistance in Dying psychotherapy?
It’s specialized therapy that supports the decision-making process, emotional well‑being, and spiritual meaning around Medical Assistance in Dying. Processing the significant and difficult decision-making can prevent prolonged grief disorders for families.
Who do you work with?
I work with adults in Ontario exploring MAiD for themselves or supporting someone who is. Having an objective person to talk to can be an important part of gaining clarity and helping with communication needs in relationships. Also, I support caregivers who face anticipatory grief, guilt, or burnout, and living with the loss after the death. I have worked with all aspects of the family as part of the palliative care outreach team in Grey County. I am uniquely able to walk with Christians struggling with this option.
How are sessions scheduled?
Online video appointments are easy and convenient ways to meet for therapy and support. I offer sessions that are secure, private and accessible anywhere in Ontario. Sessions are booked at times that respect your energy and needs, whether from your hospital bed or living room. Each session is 50 minutes and is client-led, and therapist supported. Sessions are often for individuals, although sessions can be scheduled for groups as needed – especially to work through communication challenges and expectations.
Is Medical Assistance in Dying therapy covered by insurance?
Yes, most Ontario extended healthcare plans cover Registered Psychotherapy. After each session you’ll receive a receipt for reimbursement. Private-pay options also available. Read more on the FAQ page.
What is the role of psychotherapy in the MAiD process?
Therapy offers a calm space to sort emotions, values, relationships, and meaning. It supports communication and coping before, during, and after MAiD.
What psychotherapy is not in the MAiD process
It is not medical assessment, legal advice, or a recommendation for or against MAiD. I do not determine eligibility.
Do you assess MAiD eligibility or give medical or legal advice?
No. I provide psychotherapy only. Your medical team and legal resources handle assessment and advice.
How do online family sessions work?
We meet by secure video. I set a shared goal, outline simple guidelines, and support clear turn-taking so each voice is heard.
Can multiple family members join from different locations?
Yes. I send one secure link. People can join from home, hospital, or long-term care if privacy and Wi-Fi are available.
What if family members disagree about MAiD?
We slow the pace, name core concerns, and look for areas of agreement such as values, comfort, dignity, and roles. The aim is respectful communication, not forcing consensus.
What happens in a typical 50-minute session?
Brief check-in, focused work on one or two priorities, then a clear close with next steps. You can set the agenda, or we can set it together.
How should I prepare for a session?
Choose a private space, have water and tissues, bring a device charger, and note one outcome you want from the session.
Do you coordinate with my care team?
With your written consent, I can share brief updates to support consistent care. You can revoke consent at any time.
What helps with anticipatory grief before MAiD?
Naming emotions, clarifying roles, preparing goodbyes and legacy messages, and scheduling small moments of connection.
How is support different after the death?
Early sessions focus on stabilization and practical care. Later work includes meaning-making, relationship shifts, and coping plans for dates and triggers.
Is this covered by insurance?
Many Ontario plans reimburse Registered Psychotherapy. You receive a receipt to submit to your insurer.
What if I am in crisis right now?
Call 911 if there is immediate danger. For urgent mental health support in Canada, call or text 988. Therapy with me is not an emergency service.
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Navigating the Emotional Landscape of MAiD
The decision to pursue Medical Assistance in Dying (MAiD) is deeply personal and often accompanied by a complex array of emotions. Individuals considering MAiD may experience feelings of relief, guilt, fear, or uncertainty. These emotions can be overwhelming, and having a compassionate, non-judgmental space to explore them is crucial.
Therapy provides an opportunity to process these emotions, gain clarity, and find peace with one’s decisions. Whether you’re considering MAiD for yourself or supporting a loved one through this journey, therapy can help navigate the challenges and complexities that arise.
Support for Families and Caregivers
The impact of MAiD extends beyond the individual to their family and caregivers. Loved ones may grapple with anticipatory grief, feelings of powerlessness, or moral distress. Therapy offers a supportive environment to process these emotions, communicate effectively, and find coping strategies.
By addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of the MAiD process, therapy can help families and caregivers find healing and resilience.
Resources and Support Networks
In addition to therapy, various resources and support networks are available to individuals and families affected by MAiD. Organizations such as MAiD Family Support Society offer community-based support, providing connection and understanding for those navigating this challenging experience.
These resources can complement therapeutic support, offering a holistic approach to coping with the emotional and practical aspects of MAiD.
Taking the Next Step
If you or a loved one are considering MAiD or are affected by its implications, seeking therapy can be a valuable step in the journey. Therapy provides a safe space to explore emotions, gain clarity, and find peace.
Therapy does not provide medical or legal advice or determine MAiD eligibility.
Please contact 911 if you are in crisis.
Reach out today to begin the conversation and receive the support you need.