Psychotherapy is the treatment of emotional and personal issues without medical intervention.
This means that during a session a Psychotherapist will not be assessing you for the purpose of labelling you with a diagnosis of a disorder. In certain instances, a client may benefit from exploring a possible medical diagnosis as a way towards a more robust understanding of themselves. In these cases, a therapist can be of support by working alongside other medical and mental health practitioners throughout the assessment and diagnostic process acting as a psychotherapist on a team of care professionals.
A therapist may use a variety of therapeutic tools and approaches to support their clients overcome their personal challenges. Before engaging with a particular technique, you have the right to understand the benefits-and risks- of any proposed intervention; and, be given the opportunity to consent to or refuse, treatment.
You can expect your therapist to demonstrate compassion and professionalism, while maintaining transparency. You will likely be encouraged to actively participate in your healing work by committing to attend your appointments on time; and, completing any homework activities you might take on by suggestion of your therapist.
Every psychotherapist has the legal and ethical responsibility to prioritize your safety and best interests at every point possible.
My Personal commitment to my clients
Expect to be Listened To
I cannot guarantee that I will perfectly understand, but I can guarantee that I will work towards that understanding by hearing you. Truly listening to someone has much less to do with the ears or mind, than it does with the heart. Through presence of self, I work to ‘hear’ what it is you are really saying, even if you don’t necessarily have the words to describe it at that moment.
Expect Neutrality
Judgement occurs when one person has some type of vested interest in the choices and behaviours of another individual. A therapist is not a family member or even friend; which means that your decisions do not impact your therapist on a personal level. This allows you to explore and express your thoughts and feelings honestly in a way that may be difficult in other relationships. Your therapist is not there to determine whether or not what you are doing or experiencing is ‘right’ or ‘wrong’, but to be part of your support system as you determine those answers for yourself.
Expect to be Positively Regarded
Unconditional Positive Regard is the foundation of North York Counselling and is rooted in a concept proposed by Carl Rogers to be one of the most transformative elements of therapy. This concept suggests that when someone is offered the space to be truly accepted as they are in that moment, with compassion and positive regard; that is when true and deep transformation can take place for the client. This is not to say that your therapist will agree with everything you say or do. However, they will be there holding unbiased space for you as you walk your own path to emotional wellness- whatever that looks like for you.
Expect to be Challenged
A therapist’s job is to support you. Sometimes, the most supportive action is to push you outside of your comfort zone. With compassion, your therapist may nudge you to see things in your life, relationships, or yourself, that may be difficult to see. Discomfort is difficult. however that discomfort can be the defining moment in shifting behaviours or beliefs that are no longer working for you.
Expect Professionalism
Participating in therapy is a courageous decision for many people. It takes a large amount of trust to be vulnerable and open up to someone about the most intimate parts of your life. Your therapist will encourage open and honest dialogue to ensure that you have every opportunity to feel respected. I am regulated by the Regulatory body for Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and am held to professional and ethical standards outlined by this body so that the best interest of the client is always the priority.
I may use a variety of therapeutic tools to support my clients overcome their personal challenges. Before employing a particular technique, I will ensure that you understand the benefits and risks of any particular intervention and give you the opportunity to decline from participating.
Expect Responsibility
Deciding that you are going to work with a therapist in order to overcome your challenges or maintain your self-care routine is crucial. I will be there to guide you towards understanding yourself and why you might be struggling. In order to get the most benefit from the therapeutic process, you are encouraged to actively participate in your healing work. I may make suggestions for activities to be done between sessions so that any insights or processing that’s done in your time in session can be maximized.
Expect Respect and Integrity
I am professionally and ethically obligated to respect your needs and boundaries. I will always have your best interest at heart throughout our therapeutic relationship.
The healing potential of the therapeutic alliance relies largely on this respect. In return, I will expect to be treated with the same regard, as we work together towards your goals and personal evolution.
Anxiety & Depression
Help Overcoming Anxiety and Depression Your therapist will work alongside you as you explore underlying factors relating to anxiety or depression. Work with a trusted professional to find strategies to help you discover a greater sense of well being.Receive...
Teacher Wellness
At North York Counselling Services our team truly values educators and understands the day to day challenges of the crucial profession. Our professionals work to promote emotional wellness for teachers and create overall balance within the classroom.
Grief & Loss
Help Overcoming the Trauma and Pain of Loss At North York Counselling Services your therapist understands the complicated nature of loss. Find support as you process through the pain of a difficult transition or loss of a loved one. Grief and Loss are present...
Talk to a therapist.
Your registered psychotherapist is committed to helping you work through your challenges.
You will have the opportunity and space to address your anxiety, depression, grief & loss, and mindfulness needs.
In a safe & supportive space.
Therapy offers you the opportunity to work through a number of problems you may be experiencing.
You will be provided with a safe and compassionate environment as you heal and grow.
With flexible appointment times.
Schedule an appointment by calling
(647)464-2091. Alternatively, schedule online here.
Sliding scale rates and flexible appointment times are available.
*Please ask if available times do not fit your schedule.
Our Psychotherapists Support Youth & Adults Dealing With...
Stress & Anxiety
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When one is experiencing anxiety, one’s thoughts, feelings, and
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Grief, Loss, and Bereavement
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Grief is a natural response to any loss or significant change. Throughout the span of an individuals life, some of these losses may be more painful and difficult to manage than others. Grief, of any kind, can involve complicated emotions which need to be explored and moved through in order to allow the person to integrate the old with the new. When Grief and Loss become overwhelming, it is important to tend to these feelings with the support of trusted friends and professionals
Depression
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There are a number of reasons an individual may suffer from feelings of sadness or depression. Some of these circumstances are temporary and will pass on their own. Sometimes, however, low moods and depressive thoughts and feelings become problematic as they present significant challenges in a person’s life and interfere with their ability to function. Finding the right support from friends, family, and professionals can be crucial in overcoming depressive episodes.
Mindfulness
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Mindful awareness of thoughts, emotions, and experiences can be an effective approach to working through challenging circumstances. Learning practical tools and personal applications of these strategies in daily life can be integral in finding and maintaining internal balance.
Teacher Wellness
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Every given day a teacher is responsible for the academic, social, emotional, and physical development and well-being of their students. In addition, administrative and
Youth Support
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For a number of reasons, developing years can be a difficult time for many young people. Bullying, body image, peer groups, academics, emotional and physical changes, family issues, sexual identity, are just some examples of the challenges young people today might be experiencing. While parents, teachers, and friends all serve key functions in a youth's development, access to professional support can offer the young person a safe space to explore confusing or difficult thoughts and feelings.
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Group Training
Contact North York Counselling Services for group support availability.