Photo of Anna Riddell- Blissful Balance Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anna Riddell- Blissful Balance Counselling
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
For me, Emotionally Focused Therapy provides a clear path through the emotional distress we sometimes experience in relationships with partners, family members and friends.
Hello, I’m Anna. I am a Registered Social Worker. I believe in developing a strong therapeutic relationship as the foundation for supporting healing and growth. I practice from an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective. I work with individuals and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, low self-esteem, anger, and communication challenges. Book your free phone consultation now: blissfulbalancecounsellinggroup.janeapp.com
For me, Emotionally Focused Therapy provides a clear path through the emotional distress we sometimes experience in relationships with partners, family members and friends.
Hello, I’m Anna. I am a Registered Social Worker. I believe in developing a strong therapeutic relationship as the foundation for supporting healing and growth. I practice from an anti-oppressive, trauma-informed and strengths-based perspective. I work with individuals and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, low self-esteem, anger, and communication challenges. Book your free phone consultation now: blissfulbalancecounsellinggroup.janeapp.com
(343) 801-3304 View (343) 801-3304
Photo of Triena McGuirk (Psychotherapy For You) Child Therapist, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Triena McGuirk (Psychotherapy For You) Child Therapist
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V  (Online Only)
Triena’s practice is continually evolving as she integrates Mindfulness, Interpersonal Neurobiology and Therapeutic Practices, DBT, CBT, ASIST, IFS, SFBT, Trauma Aware Care, ERP, Collaborative Law-Family Professional and other tools and trainings to support those she serves.
My name is Triena McGuirk and I am a Social Worker in private practice. Over the course of my experiences, I have come to learn with certainty that life is chaotic and the one thing we truly have control over is how we respond. I walk with people of all ages during life’s challenging moments, when the path is not visible. My goal as a Therapist is to assist those I serve (individuals, couples and families) in reconciling the discomfort of their experience and harness the wisdom it carries to invite more of what aligns into your life. I am diligent and resourceful in my pursuit of helping and hope those I serve leave our time
Triena’s practice is continually evolving as she integrates Mindfulness, Interpersonal Neurobiology and Therapeutic Practices, DBT, CBT, ASIST, IFS, SFBT, Trauma Aware Care, ERP, Collaborative Law-Family Professional and other tools and trainings to support those she serves.
My name is Triena McGuirk and I am a Social Worker in private practice. Over the course of my experiences, I have come to learn with certainty that life is chaotic and the one thing we truly have control over is how we respond. I walk with people of all ages during life’s challenging moments, when the path is not visible. My goal as a Therapist is to assist those I serve (individuals, couples and families) in reconciling the discomfort of their experience and harness the wisdom it carries to invite more of what aligns into your life. I am diligent and resourceful in my pursuit of helping and hope those I serve leave our time
(343) 309-5358 View (343) 309-5358
Photo of Janelle Comtois, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Janelle Comtois
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused, and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy techniques with clients struggling with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, anger issues, substance abuse, high risk behaviors, disordered eating, trauma and abuse.
I originate from a Northern Ontario community but have been happily settled in the Ottawa area for over 20 years. I am a bilingual (fluent in French and English), Social Worker and it has been my great pleasure to work in the field of mental health social work with Children, Youth and Adults since 2006. I believe that everyone runs into challenges in their life that they shouldn't be expected to resolve alone and I am happy to be there to guide them on their road to recovery. Lets work together to re-establish fulfillment in your life.
I specialize in utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution Focused, and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy techniques with clients struggling with a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, anger issues, substance abuse, high risk behaviors, disordered eating, trauma and abuse.
I originate from a Northern Ontario community but have been happily settled in the Ottawa area for over 20 years. I am a bilingual (fluent in French and English), Social Worker and it has been my great pleasure to work in the field of mental health social work with Children, Youth and Adults since 2006. I believe that everyone runs into challenges in their life that they shouldn't be expected to resolve alone and I am happy to be there to guide them on their road to recovery. Lets work together to re-establish fulfillment in your life.
(855) 908-4397 View (855) 908-4397
Photo of Soul To Soul Counselling in Ottawa, ON
Soul To Soul Counselling
MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1M  (Online Only)
You’ve done it all, checked all the boxes, moulded yourself according to external standards but still find yourself feeling alone, unappreciated, unsupported, and unloved. Our work together will help you claim yourself, love yourself and experience real happiness deep within you. Come back to your true self and claim your love and freedom within. Let's do the deep dive to the source of your pain, whether it manifests in anger, overwhelm, sadness or anxiety. My soul-based approach will help you finally resolve issues you are facing within yourself, as a couple or within your family, including transgenerational trauma.
You’ve done it all, checked all the boxes, moulded yourself according to external standards but still find yourself feeling alone, unappreciated, unsupported, and unloved. Our work together will help you claim yourself, love yourself and experience real happiness deep within you. Come back to your true self and claim your love and freedom within. Let's do the deep dive to the source of your pain, whether it manifests in anger, overwhelm, sadness or anxiety. My soul-based approach will help you finally resolve issues you are facing within yourself, as a couple or within your family, including transgenerational trauma.
(343) 304-6341 View (343) 304-6341
Photo of Alicia Shameer, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Alicia Shameer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
In couples therapy and family therapy, I work with members to restore balance, intimacy and safety in their connections.
Thanks for stopping by! I’m Alicia and would love to support you with exploring your inner world(s). I know how challenging it can be to do so and I am hopeful that by working as a team, it will bring some clarity surrounding your journey. I am passionate about helping clients find their voice and reaching a place within themselves where they feel safe and compassionate. My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space for clients to feel comfortable to bring in any thought or concern that they would like to discuss throughout our sessions.
In couples therapy and family therapy, I work with members to restore balance, intimacy and safety in their connections.
Thanks for stopping by! I’m Alicia and would love to support you with exploring your inner world(s). I know how challenging it can be to do so and I am hopeful that by working as a team, it will bring some clarity surrounding your journey. I am passionate about helping clients find their voice and reaching a place within themselves where they feel safe and compassionate. My goal is to create a warm, non-judgmental space for clients to feel comfortable to bring in any thought or concern that they would like to discuss throughout our sessions.
(343) 309-9489 View (343) 309-9489
Photo of Cindy Bekkedam, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Cindy Bekkedam
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), RD, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y  (Online Only)
Drawing on Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy, we will navigate the complexities of your experience.
Feeling anxious, caught in the cycle of people-pleasing or struggling with an eating disorder? Are you disconnected from your true self or struggling with relationships? Childhood trauma can have lasting effects that limit us, impacting our self-esteem, direction, and relationships. If you're navigating the conditioning from emotionally immature or neglectful parents, or if relationships don't feel safe, holistic psychotherapy can be your compass for healing. There's hope for breaking free from old patterns, knowing your true needs and desires, and living a life aligned with your authentic self, not just societal expectations.
Drawing on Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy, we will navigate the complexities of your experience.
Feeling anxious, caught in the cycle of people-pleasing or struggling with an eating disorder? Are you disconnected from your true self or struggling with relationships? Childhood trauma can have lasting effects that limit us, impacting our self-esteem, direction, and relationships. If you're navigating the conditioning from emotionally immature or neglectful parents, or if relationships don't feel safe, holistic psychotherapy can be your compass for healing. There's hope for breaking free from old patterns, knowing your true needs and desires, and living a life aligned with your authentic self, not just societal expectations.
(343) 655-2646 View (343) 655-2646
Photo of Andrea Kalentzis, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Andrea Kalentzis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Sometimes life can be really hard. Every person, no matter how big or small their issues appear to be, needs to be heard and understood. I am here to guide you through life’s toughest moments, to embark on your journey together, and to support you every step of the way by listening, understanding, and appreciating your courage. Together, we can overcome emotional hurdles, achieve personal goals higher than ever imagined, and work towards a greater, deeper understanding of you. I am a wife, a mother, a sister, and a stepmother who acknowledges the beauty but also the challenges of creating a blended family.
Sometimes life can be really hard. Every person, no matter how big or small their issues appear to be, needs to be heard and understood. I am here to guide you through life’s toughest moments, to embark on your journey together, and to support you every step of the way by listening, understanding, and appreciating your courage. Together, we can overcome emotional hurdles, achieve personal goals higher than ever imagined, and work towards a greater, deeper understanding of you. I am a wife, a mother, a sister, and a stepmother who acknowledges the beauty but also the challenges of creating a blended family.
(343) 321-1993 View (343) 321-1993
Photo of Eleanore Altman (She Her Elle), Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Eleanore Altman (She Her Elle)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
Hello! I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative psychotherapist and couple and family therapist in the Ottawa area. I offer therapy to youth, parents, couples, and families from a systemic, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed perspective. I am happy to offer both in-person and telephone sessions depending on your preference, and I have the option of an in-office cat for those who would like to have an animal present in their therapy session.
Hello! I am an LGBTQ+ affirmative psychotherapist and couple and family therapist in the Ottawa area. I offer therapy to youth, parents, couples, and families from a systemic, anti-oppressive and trauma-informed perspective. I am happy to offer both in-person and telephone sessions depending on your preference, and I have the option of an in-office cat for those who would like to have an animal present in their therapy session.
(343) 313-1008 View (343) 313-1008
Photo of Sandbox Family Solutions , Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sandbox Family Solutions
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MSW, RSW, QFAS
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B
Our team of collaborative clinicians offer mental health services for the whole family, including individual, couple and family therapy . Our treatment team has a combined total of 75 years of experience working with children and youth as we specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression and relationship issues (including helping families who are needing reunification support). Our divorce clinic offers family mediation, separation planning, parenting coordination, Voice of the Child reports and collaborative divorce support to families inside and outside of court -all while keeping the kids at the centre of each conversation.
Our team of collaborative clinicians offer mental health services for the whole family, including individual, couple and family therapy . Our treatment team has a combined total of 75 years of experience working with children and youth as we specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression and relationship issues (including helping families who are needing reunification support). Our divorce clinic offers family mediation, separation planning, parenting coordination, Voice of the Child reports and collaborative divorce support to families inside and outside of court -all while keeping the kids at the centre of each conversation.
(343) 430-5359 View (343) 430-5359
Photo of Zahra Nafar, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Zahra Nafar
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1P
My therapy approach focuses on understanding my clients’ history by gathering information about their family of origin, cultural background, physiological and psychological health to create enhanced clinical plans that promote change and the use of practical strategies and tools.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and the director of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling Clinic with locations in Ottawa, Kingston and the GTA. My experience includes years of advanced training in psychology, neuroscience and genetics, providing trauma-informed interventions for clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). I utilize a client-centred methodology to provide a compassionate and safe therapeutic environment for my clients.
My therapy approach focuses on understanding my clients’ history by gathering information about their family of origin, cultural background, physiological and psychological health to create enhanced clinical plans that promote change and the use of practical strategies and tools.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and the director of YourTherapist Psychotherapy and Counselling Clinic with locations in Ottawa, Kingston and the GTA. My experience includes years of advanced training in psychology, neuroscience and genetics, providing trauma-informed interventions for clients with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional (CAIMHP). I utilize a client-centred methodology to provide a compassionate and safe therapeutic environment for my clients.
(343) 306-4498 View (343) 306-4498
Photo of Lola Sholagbade, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Lola Sholagbade
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, GDip, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
I have experience working with adult individuals, couples and family dealing with issues such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger, stress and relationship issues.
Welcome and thank you for stopping by! It is never easy to take the step towards change, yet, here you are taking that very step. Perhaps you've been worn down by life or you are stuck because of an inner conflict. Do you have trouble identifying and accepting your emotions or are mired in self-defeating beliefs and irrational thoughts? I can help. I embrace a compassion-focused approach which helps to ease your burdens, alleviate your hurt and lessen your struggles. I provide a warm, confidential and non-judgmental space which fosters a quieting of the mind that enable and empower you to actualize your hopes, dreams, and ideas.
I have experience working with adult individuals, couples and family dealing with issues such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger, stress and relationship issues.
Welcome and thank you for stopping by! It is never easy to take the step towards change, yet, here you are taking that very step. Perhaps you've been worn down by life or you are stuck because of an inner conflict. Do you have trouble identifying and accepting your emotions or are mired in self-defeating beliefs and irrational thoughts? I can help. I embrace a compassion-focused approach which helps to ease your burdens, alleviate your hurt and lessen your struggles. I provide a warm, confidential and non-judgmental space which fosters a quieting of the mind that enable and empower you to actualize your hopes, dreams, and ideas.
(343) 308-8408 View (343) 308-8408
Photo of Jessica Courville, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jessica Courville
Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K  (Online Only)
My theoretical approach includes; Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotion-Freedom Technique (Level 2 Practitioner), Mindful Self-Compassion Therapy (MSCT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hello and welcome! Pause for a second, take a deep breath, and let's see if my approach to therapy speaks to you. To start, I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety/worry, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, low motivation, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, as well as addiction & problematic substance use. Together, we will explore the barriers/obstacles that are getting in the way of you living your "best life" and we will work toward a place in which you feel more balanced, confident, healthier, and happier.
My theoretical approach includes; Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotion-Freedom Technique (Level 2 Practitioner), Mindful Self-Compassion Therapy (MSCT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hello and welcome! Pause for a second, take a deep breath, and let's see if my approach to therapy speaks to you. To start, I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety/worry, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, low motivation, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, as well as addiction & problematic substance use. Together, we will explore the barriers/obstacles that are getting in the way of you living your "best life" and we will work toward a place in which you feel more balanced, confident, healthier, and happier.
(343) 321-0884 View (343) 321-0884
Photo of Julia Malette, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Julia Malette
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A
Whether you’re an individual, a couple, or a family, I’m here to help you navigate these obstacles.
Are you ready to dive deep into your emotions and form authentic connections? Have life events left a lasting impact on your daily life? Remember, you’re never alone in this journey. I firmly believe in our innate ability to overcome challenges, and sometimes, a little support can make all the difference. That’s where psychotherapy comes in.
Whether you’re an individual, a couple, or a family, I’m here to help you navigate these obstacles.
Are you ready to dive deep into your emotions and form authentic connections? Have life events left a lasting impact on your daily life? Remember, you’re never alone in this journey. I firmly believe in our innate ability to overcome challenges, and sometimes, a little support can make all the difference. That’s where psychotherapy comes in.
(343) 304-6217 View (343) 304-6217
Photo of Second Nature Family Health and Wellness Centre, Counsellor in Ottawa, ON
Second Nature Family Health and Wellness Centre
Counsellor, MA, BA, RECE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
Welcome parents, families, and kids! My name is Anastasia and I am the owner of Second Nature Child, Youth & Family Therapy. I provide individual counselling services to children, youth, and families that repair and enhance relationships. I help families cultivate social and emotional skills through specialized mental health counselling and education services that are attachment-focused and rooted in nature. Book an indvidual session for your child, your teen, your spouse, or just for you. Together, we can find your strength so that you can continue being the parent that you were meant to be.
Welcome parents, families, and kids! My name is Anastasia and I am the owner of Second Nature Child, Youth & Family Therapy. I provide individual counselling services to children, youth, and families that repair and enhance relationships. I help families cultivate social and emotional skills through specialized mental health counselling and education services that are attachment-focused and rooted in nature. Book an indvidual session for your child, your teen, your spouse, or just for you. Together, we can find your strength so that you can continue being the parent that you were meant to be.
(343) 321-2576 View (343) 321-2576
Photo of Sarah Mather, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sarah Mather
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
I have training in Emotion Focussed Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you someone who feels their emotions in a big way? Perhaps you are extra sensitive to the emotions of others and often find yourself feeling anxious. I work with “super-feeling” clients who are struggling with disordered eating, self-esteem and emotion regulation. I strive to create a warm and safe space where clients feel deeply seen.
I have training in Emotion Focussed Family Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Are you someone who feels their emotions in a big way? Perhaps you are extra sensitive to the emotions of others and often find yourself feeling anxious. I work with “super-feeling” clients who are struggling with disordered eating, self-esteem and emotion regulation. I strive to create a warm and safe space where clients feel deeply seen.
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Photo of Arynne Boyes, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Arynne Boyes
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2A  (Online Only)
My practice primarily pulls from concepts rooted in, mindfulness-based therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and trauma informed therapy.
Healing is a journey, and therapy is but one step. Through my practice I offer clients a warm, empathetic, and compassionate counselling style. I strive to collaborate with my clients in achieving the goals they set in their healing journey. I approach therapy with a non-judgmental attitude, recognizing that everyone has a unique journey that has led them to the present. I aim to empower my clients and assist them in establishing the confidence and resilience needed to reach their therapeutic goals.
My practice primarily pulls from concepts rooted in, mindfulness-based therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and trauma informed therapy.
Healing is a journey, and therapy is but one step. Through my practice I offer clients a warm, empathetic, and compassionate counselling style. I strive to collaborate with my clients in achieving the goals they set in their healing journey. I approach therapy with a non-judgmental attitude, recognizing that everyone has a unique journey that has led them to the present. I aim to empower my clients and assist them in establishing the confidence and resilience needed to reach their therapeutic goals.
(343) 312-9815 View (343) 312-9815
Photo of Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy , Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RECE, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
(343) 453-0134 View (343) 453-0134
Photo of Joelle Ciccarelli, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Joelle Ciccarelli
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), Bsc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2G
Welcoming new clients! I support folks with eating disorders, neurodivergence (ADHD and ASD), relational challenges, developmental trauma/family of origin issues, identity challenges, self-esteem and grief. My intention is to hold a warm and welcoming space for you to present yourself authentically and unapologetically. I know therapy can be vulnerable, uncomfortable and challenging for some. I am here with you every step of the way without judgment, and together, we can collaborate to navigate your goals.
Welcoming new clients! I support folks with eating disorders, neurodivergence (ADHD and ASD), relational challenges, developmental trauma/family of origin issues, identity challenges, self-esteem and grief. My intention is to hold a warm and welcoming space for you to present yourself authentically and unapologetically. I know therapy can be vulnerable, uncomfortable and challenging for some. I am here with you every step of the way without judgment, and together, we can collaborate to navigate your goals.
(343) 312-5607 View (343) 312-5607
Photo of Jeannette Robert, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jeannette Robert
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
*Addictions: Substance Abuse, Assessments, Treatment Plan, *Family of Origin Issues & Family Reconciliation *Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Trauma *Anger management Individuals, Couple, Family, & Group Therapy *Relational and Family Issues.
My philosophy is Existential, meaning that we are free and therefore responsible for our choices, We are the authors of our lives, and we design the pathways we follow. My basic premise is that we are not victims of circumstance because, to a large extent, we are what we choose to be. Life is a cycle of transitions and experiences, presenting opportunities and challenges. Often the most important life lessons comes from our suffering. My aim is to assist people to develop their meaning and purpose, by encouraging them to explore options, in order to achieve a more meaningful existence.
*Addictions: Substance Abuse, Assessments, Treatment Plan, *Family of Origin Issues & Family Reconciliation *Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) & Trauma *Anger management Individuals, Couple, Family, & Group Therapy *Relational and Family Issues.
My philosophy is Existential, meaning that we are free and therefore responsible for our choices, We are the authors of our lives, and we design the pathways we follow. My basic premise is that we are not victims of circumstance because, to a large extent, we are what we choose to be. Life is a cycle of transitions and experiences, presenting opportunities and challenges. Often the most important life lessons comes from our suffering. My aim is to assist people to develop their meaning and purpose, by encouraging them to explore options, in order to achieve a more meaningful existence.
(613) 801-6262 View (613) 801-6262
Photo of Patrick J Pretty, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Patrick J Pretty
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP/PA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Accepting New Clients! Therapy services I offer include and are not limited to: • anxiety and depression • emotional management • co-dependency issues • communication • family of origin issues • grief work • men’s issues / challenges • personal and interpersonal growth • self-esteem / self-care • stress management and much more!
Accepting New Clients! Therapy services I offer include and are not limited to: • anxiety and depression • emotional management • co-dependency issues • communication • family of origin issues • grief work • men’s issues / challenges • personal and interpersonal growth • self-esteem / self-care • stress management and much more!
(343) 308-9187 View (343) 308-9187

See more therapy options for Ottawa


Family Therapy Counsellors

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.