Psychotherapy is the practice of providing a safe space to work though one’s challenges, and improve and strengthen mental health and well-being. There are many different theoretical orientations and types of therapy, but in one way or another they are all aimed at helping you achieve your wellness goals and bring greater awareness and insight into your problems and ability to work through them. To learn more about our approaches and theoretical orientations, head over to the Team page.

If you’re asking the question, that’s a good sign. I truly believe that we can all benefit from the therapeutic space, it’s just a matter of knowing when it might be most useful. There’s no shortage of issues that therapy can address. Whether you want to understand yourself and your patterns better, strengthen relationships, manage anxiety, depression, or stress, or work through feelings of loss, therapy is here to help.

It can certainly be confusing to navigate, and although there is overlap between different mental health professions, there are some important differences.

• I am a social worker with a master’s degree, and am registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). I am able to provide a variety of social work services, ranging from case management, supportive counselling, and psychotherapy. I am not able to provide diagnoses or prescribe medication. Many extended health plans have social work coverage, and a referral is not usually required, unless it is a stipulation of your benefits package.

• Psychologists (PhD) and psychological associates (Master’s) in Ontario are registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario (CPO), and can provide a variety of mental health services, including assessments, diagnosis, and psychotherapy. Psychologists cannot prescribe medication. Many extended health plans have psychologist coverage, and referrals are often not required, unless it is a stipulation of your benefits package.

• Psychotherapists in Ontario are registered with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO), and may have a Master’s in counselling or education or another degree related to mental health. Psychotherapists can provide psychotherapy, and cannot diagnose or prescribe medication. Psychotherapists are becoming a more commonly covered profession, but may not be part of your health benefits. Referrals are often not required, unless it is a stipulation of your benefits package.

• Psychiatrists are medical doctors, and are covered by OHIP. A referral will likely be needed for an appointment with a psychiatrist, and there may be a wait-list. Family doctors are a great resource for providing a referral. Psychiatrists can provide assessments, diagnosis, prescriptions for medication, and psychotherapy (however, it may be challenging to find a psychiatrist who offers psychotherapy), and may work in hospital, clinic, and private practice settings.

Excellent and important question. The fit between the client and therapist is one of the most important aspects of successful therapy. It is beneficial for you to take your time researching the type of therapy you may be interested in, as well as the qualities you are looking for in a therapist. Additionally, take advantage of consultations and look through the therapist’s website to learn more about them (like you’re doing right now!). Once you meet with a therapist, trust your gut and notice how you feel sitting and sharing with them. If you’re not feeling safe and supported, it will be challenging to make progress.

Both in-person and virtual counselling options are available. Ashley offers in-person sessions on Mondays and Thursdays in the Dupont and Spadina area (5 minute walk from Dupont subway station), as well as virtual sessions (phone or secure video).

Taylor practices virtually, offering both phone/secure video sessions.

Each therapist sets their own fee, please see the team page for additional details. If you have extended health benefits, it is important to check your policy to see if psychotherapy provided by registered social workers is covered. A reduced rate may be available in certain circumstances based on financial need, and can be discussed during the initial consultation. We currently accept payments by E-Transfer or credit card.

There is no “one size fits all” answer to this. Progress of therapy depends on many factors, including your goals, fit with your therapist, how much time you can dedicate to the work, and finances. Some people are interested in brief stints of treatment, perhaps to help them get over a hump or specific challenging time, and others may be interested in a longer term exploration of themselves or overcoming longstanding challenges. Generally a person may feel therapy has been successful when they have gained a better understanding of themselves and their problems, and have experienced some resolution to their presenting issue, or an increase in functioning and overall well-being.

Speaking of initial consultations… I believe it is helpful to spend a few minutes chatting about what brings you to therapy, and allow a space for any questions you may have. For this reason we offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to do just that. Feel free to send us a message or click the link below to be taken to our online calendar.