This is probably the first question many people have. Although it may seem like a silly question it really isn't. Therapy offers a confidential and safe place to discuss issues in your life that may be painful, confusing or creating tension. The therapist gets to know you as a person and helps to uncover your strengths as well as helps you to address areas which you have identified as needing some work. The therapy is tailored to meet individual needs and will likely draw from a variety of theories in an attempt to best help you.

Many people hesitate as to whether they need to see a professional to work on specific issues. It is understandable given that there is a stigma attached to mental health which can prevent people from seeking the support and help they need. Others feel they can manage their own issues or will find support from friends or family. While it is important to have support from friends and family, there are many benefits in seeking help from a professional. A professional therapist can teach you skills that address a specific problem that you may be struggling with. They can also listen and provide feedback in a non-judgmental manor. Sometimes it is more comfortable sharing personal matters with a person outside of your immediate circle of support. A therapist will help you see your strengths and encourage you to look deep within for your own answers. A well meaning friend may try to solve the situation for you which may not be how you would approach the problem yourself.

Finding a therapist is a very individual and personal decision. Recommendations from your doctor or from someone you know and trust can help to narrow your search. You want to make sure that the therapist you choose has experience with the issue you are seeking help with, is qualified to practice and is regulated by a regulatory body. Ultimately, it is important that you find the therapist who is the right fit for you. You want to feel comfortable talking to the person and feel you can trust them with your story. Don’t hesitate to call me and discuss your needs to see if I would be the right person to help you.

I like to take the time to get to know you and for you to get to know me. I want to make sure that you are comfortable with my approach and feel that you can trust me with your story. I will spend time explaining my approach, reviewing confidentiality and gathering information about you and your issues. We will then talk about the goals you want to work towards and decide whether I am the right person to help you.

Sessions with a therapist are confidential. No information can be shared without your permission. There are specific exceptions to this rule which include threatening harm to self or others and disclosure of child abuse.

Therapy is hard work. It is important that you be an active participant throughout the process. This includes working with the therapist to set goals, being open and honest about your feelings and thoughts and completing homework as assigned. Recognize that none of this is easy and changes don’t happen over night. It is not uncommon for people to feel worse before they feel better. It is difficult to talk about emotional issues and this can awaken unpleasant feelings at first. With the therapist’s support, you can overcome this and work towards the goals that you hope to achieve.

It is normal for everyone to have times when their mood is down. What isn’t normal is when your mood remains low for a long period of time (more than a few weeks) and begins to interfere with normal everyday life. While everyone’s symptoms are different, some common signs include: sadness, low energy, low motivation, change in appetite, change in sleep patterns, loss of interest, feelings of guilt, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, irritability and thoughts of self harm. Depression is real and should not go untreated. If you are unsure if you are depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. I would be happy to discuss your concerns to see if counselling would be of benefit.

Many private insurance companies will cover the cost of therapy. For more information please consult your insurance carrier to ensure that services provided by a social worker are covered. An invoice will be provided that you can use to submit to your insurance provider or you can claim the amount as a health expense on your tax return.

Sessions are $150.00 and sessions typically last 1 hour

Counselling and therapy is available through publicly funded organizations (hospitals, community agencies). Unfortunately due to demand, there are often long wait times for services (months to even years depending on the treatment). When a person’s life is being affected by their mental health issue, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. This will lesson the impact on the areas of your life affected by the issue (job, family, relationships etc..) and get you feeling better quicker. Also, publicly funded counselling often has strict criteria as to who qualifies for services and for how long. Sometimes the issue you are struggling with will not be covered and this will mean having to seek supportive services through the private sector. Through private services, you are able to chose the therapist you want to see and the issues you want to address.