What is Psychotherapy?
"Psychotherapy is primarily a talk-based therapy and is intended to help people improve and maintain their mental health and well-being. Registered Psychotherapists work with individuals, couples and families in individual and group settings. Psychotherapy occurs when the Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and client enter into a psychotherapeutic relationship where both work together to bring about positive change in the client’s thinking, feeling, behaviour and social functioning. Individuals usually seek psychotherapy when they have thoughts, feelings, moods and behaviours that are adversely affecting their day-to-day lives, relationships and the ability to enjoy life." - College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario
What can I expect from psychotherapy?
You are expected to talk about what is most important to you and you will be doing most of the talking.
You are expected to actively participate and be a committed partner in the therapeutic relationship, including attending sessions and completing any assigned “homework”.
Your therapist will objectively listen, to help you examine your concerns, gain deeper understanding of yourself, and explore ways to achieve your goals and resolve your own issues. Your therapist will not give you advice but rather support the development of your sense of responsibility and capability in life. Your therapist's job is to help you to help yourself, through cultivating the ability to clarify what you think, feel, and value, and to find different perspectives to view yourself from, and varying meaning hidden beneath the surface.
As much as they may like to be, your counsellor is not a mind reader. The more open and honest you are, the more helpful therapy will become. That being said, you are never forced to talk about anything which you are not ready to. When you are ready, your therapist will be there with you, supporting non-judgementally.
As with all relationships, you may occasionally have a misunderstanding with your counsellor. It’s important to tell your therapist about any negative or uncomfortable feelings you have about the counsellor or the counselling process as these are often an important part of the counselling itself.
What does it mean about me, that I am seeking counselling?
Seeking counselling is not a sign of “weakness.” Taking the steps to examine and work on your issues and concerns is an active and courageous first step in the process of changing your life for the better.
What if my therapist and I are not a good fit?
We try our best to ensure a good fit through our free 15 minute consult before you enter the therapeutic relationship. However, sometimes things just do not work out and you can discontinue therapy at any time, with or without a reason. If you feel as though it's not working out with your therapist, you can be transparent with them in letting them know what's not working for you. They can either adjust some things to suit your needs, or discontinue therapy at that time. We understand that we're not going to be a perfect fit for everyone, and we want you to have a positive experience.
Is Psychotherapy covered by OHIP?
Psychotherapy is not covered by OHIP. However, if you have 3rd party insurance, it is possible to have coverage through them.
Do you offer sliding scale?
We do have limited sliding scale availability. Please reach out for details.
Which payment options do you accept?
We accept credit cards and e-transfers.
Can psychotherapists prescribe medication?
Registered Psychotherapists cannot prescribe medication. However, we can collaborate with other medical professionals to provide insight into our clients' symptoms and care when needed.
Medication vs. Psychotherapy?
Medication is proven to help with varying disorders, but it has also been proven to simply not be enough in many scenarios. Medication often treats the symptoms of a problem, without getting to the root of solving it, which is where psychotherapy comes in. Whatever your personal wishes on the matter are, they will be honoured and your therapist can refer you out to an appropriate provider should you decide to during your time together. Many people are also turning to holistic and natural alternatives to modern medicine to treat mental, physical and spiritual issues. We fully support exploring alternative options to wellness such as essential oils, chiropractic and massage care, yoga, reiki, exercise options and nutrition, and can refer you to professional holistic practitioners in your area.
Do our therapy sessions remain private?
Confidentiality is of the highest importance in the therapy. Therapy takes a lot of trust and a good therapist understands the vulnerability and openness that must come from each client in order to make progress. That trust can take time to develop. Make sure your therapist offers a confidentiality agreement before you begin your sessions, typically called ‘informed consent.’ It is your choice if you’d like to have your therapist share anything significant with your other healthcare providers, but this can only be done with your additional written consent. The only limits to this confidentiality are the rare exceptions of suspected abuse of any kind (including child protection), if they are subpoenaed by the court, audited by the CRPO, or if the therapist has reason to believe their client may harm themselves, or others. These situations are a matter of ethical procedures, and sometimes the law.
What level of education do psychotherapists have?
All of our registered psychotherapists have a master's degree in psychology.
How long do I need to be in therapy for?
Each client is different. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to determine what the best course of treatment looks like for you.
How is therapy structured?
No two therapy sessions are alike and therapists will use different interventions and approaches based on your individual needs and wellness goals. Different possibilities for your sessions could involve planned mindfulness or breathing exercises, written assignments, review of homework, and agenda setting at the start of session to ensure we prioritize what is most important to you.
If I have had a bad experience with therapy, how do I know this will be different?
If you've had a bad experience with therapy in the past, you can let your therapist know. For the therapist, it is very helpful to know what you didn't think was helpful and what you didn't like. This will help your therapist structure your sessions in a way that supports your goals and offers the best chance at positive outcomes. Every therapist - like every individual - is different. We recognize that every lock has a key, but not every key fits each lock. We all have different styles and personalities that impact the effectiveness of therapy. It is our goal to provide you with the care you need, or point you in the right direction to receive it.
