Therapists in Ontario
Jennifer Anne Thake
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kanata, ON K2M
I have been trained in a variety of effective counselling methods, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, and mindfulness and self-compassion therapy.
My aim is to help move clients from a place of stress, hurt, and suffering to a place of increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and strength. I strongly believe that each client has the answers for a healthier, happier, and meaningful life within themselves. My role as a therapist is to help you discover these "answers" and help you put them into place. I tend to support youth and adults who are experiencing various life stressors; persons with symptoms of anxiety or low mood and self-esteem; persons struggling with emotional regulation; and persons who wish to move from floundering in their lives to flourishing.
I have been trained in a variety of effective counselling methods, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, and mindfulness and self-compassion therapy.
My aim is to help move clients from a place of stress, hurt, and suffering to a place of increased self-awareness, self-compassion, and strength. I strongly believe that each client has the answers for a healthier, happier, and meaningful life within themselves. My role as a therapist is to help you discover these "answers" and help you put them into place. I tend to support youth and adults who are experiencing various life stressors; persons with symptoms of anxiety or low mood and self-esteem; persons struggling with emotional regulation; and persons who wish to move from floundering in their lives to flourishing.
Samantha Campbell
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P (Online Only)
I emphasize being strengths-based and use a variety of therapeutic interventions/methods including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
I have extensive experience supporting diverse communities in various settings (e.g. schools, hospitals, and in-home). I offer therapy to children, youth, couples and families to address a variety of challenges such as anger management, parenting, trauma, family conflict, domestic violence, anxiety and depression. I strive to respond to the unique needs of my clients and to create a safe space for the helping process. I hope to use my tools and knowledge to promote healthier dialogues and to encourage self-reflection as a step towards positive change.
I emphasize being strengths-based and use a variety of therapeutic interventions/methods including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Trauma-Informed Therapy.
I have extensive experience supporting diverse communities in various settings (e.g. schools, hospitals, and in-home). I offer therapy to children, youth, couples and families to address a variety of challenges such as anger management, parenting, trauma, family conflict, domestic violence, anxiety and depression. I strive to respond to the unique needs of my clients and to create a safe space for the helping process. I hope to use my tools and knowledge to promote healthier dialogues and to encourage self-reflection as a step towards positive change.
Desiree Brown
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Vaughan, ON L4K
I use a variety of therapeutic styles: DBT, CBT, internal family systems, emotion focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, brief solution focused therapy and the triphasic model of trauma therapy.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
I use a variety of therapeutic styles: DBT, CBT, internal family systems, emotion focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing, harm-reduction, brief solution focused therapy and the triphasic model of trauma therapy.
I share a common human experience with my clients and appreciate our journeys. Maybe you're considering therapy to connect with someone non-judgmental and outside your personal support system; you're feeling uneasy or worrying about life; you're withdrawing from others and no longer find joy and pleasure; substance use or a habitual behaviour is getting in the way of meaningful relationships and meeting life’s challenges; or you experienced a major event in your life and you're feeling overwhelmed. We will endeavour to understand these challenges and I will support you in taking steps that would benefit you.
Julien Fortier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BMT, RSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5V (Online Only)
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
Specializing in complex mental health issues like substance use, bipolar disorder, and more, I offer a holistic approach with mindfulness, motivational interviewing and CBT.
I specialize in supporting clients with mental health challenges—depression, anxiety, PTSD, intellectual disabilities, substance use, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Ideal clients seek holistic care, combining mindfulness, CBT, music therapy, and empathy. They desire equitable, barrier-free support for stability and a healthier mindset. They value tailored strategies and a collaborative ally skilled in advocacy and communication. Ultimately, they seek understanding and holistic healing in a safe, empathetic space.
DG Psychotherapy (Diane Guy)
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BAHons, CCAC, CCTACP, DipPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baysville, ON P0B
Working in forensic psychology for many years with unmotivated, often mandated clients, I have vast expertise in Motivational Interviewing with pre-contemplative clients who are resistant to the change process and need support to breakdown their own stigma and barriers to help them successfully engage in a therapeutic relationship.
** Feb 2024 Accepting New Clients ** Acceptance and change are fundamental to our emotional well-being and everyone has the capacity to find their own harmony between the two. I work from a client-centred perspective empowering individuals, couples and families to develop the skills, tools and fresh perspectives required to find a balance in life. My approach to counselling is individually tailored to every client and draws from a variety of treatment models.
Working in forensic psychology for many years with unmotivated, often mandated clients, I have vast expertise in Motivational Interviewing with pre-contemplative clients who are resistant to the change process and need support to breakdown their own stigma and barriers to help them successfully engage in a therapeutic relationship.
** Feb 2024 Accepting New Clients ** Acceptance and change are fundamental to our emotional well-being and everyone has the capacity to find their own harmony between the two. I work from a client-centred perspective empowering individuals, couples and families to develop the skills, tools and fresh perspectives required to find a balance in life. My approach to counselling is individually tailored to every client and draws from a variety of treatment models.
Eleazar Nimoh
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
In addition, I specialize in various theoretical approaches such as CBT, trauma- informed care, motivational interviewing, experiential therapy and spirituality.
Teaching and reaching you is my greatest concern! How does this happen? Through counselling and building together a portfolio of strategies and ideas that can provide you the confidence and abilities to process, cope and continue on. My work involves helping and supporting adolescents, groups, young adults and families find their way in their communities and circumstances with culturally-responsive supports. Re-strengthening your identity is only a consultation away!
In addition, I specialize in various theoretical approaches such as CBT, trauma- informed care, motivational interviewing, experiential therapy and spirituality.
Teaching and reaching you is my greatest concern! How does this happen? Through counselling and building together a portfolio of strategies and ideas that can provide you the confidence and abilities to process, cope and continue on. My work involves helping and supporting adolescents, groups, young adults and families find their way in their communities and circumstances with culturally-responsive supports. Re-strengthening your identity is only a consultation away!
Meagan Szwed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4S
I bring over a decade of experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, sex counseling, and family therapy.
Hi, I'm Meagan! I am most passionate about working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and sexuality concerns, personality disorders, caregiver burnout, and stressed-out mamas. I work from a trauma informed, antiracist, 2slgbtqia+ ally, harm reduction, sex positive, consumer survivor informed, feminist approach. What does all that mean? It means that I appreciate and accept YOU for YOU, no matter who you are.
I bring over a decade of experience in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, sex counseling, and family therapy.
Hi, I'm Meagan! I am most passionate about working with those struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction, relationship and sexuality concerns, personality disorders, caregiver burnout, and stressed-out mamas. I work from a trauma informed, antiracist, 2slgbtqia+ ally, harm reduction, sex positive, consumer survivor informed, feminist approach. What does all that mean? It means that I appreciate and accept YOU for YOU, no matter who you are.
Laura Boyko
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, MEd(c), ACC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
I use a variety of counselling methods such as IFS, CBT & motivational interviewing.
You have likely encountered some challenging times recently, or else you wouldn’t be here. Feeling stuck and not knowing how to move forward? You may not know where that journey will take you, but I can help be your personal guide. I believe my main role is to help observe and facilitate your personal journey. Imagine a life of clarity, love and freedom from the negative thoughts or emotions that fill your head and binds you. Imagine waking up every day feeling in control of whatever might come your way; knowing that you have the internal strength to deal with and manage it. Imagine being the best version of YOU.
I use a variety of counselling methods such as IFS, CBT & motivational interviewing.
You have likely encountered some challenging times recently, or else you wouldn’t be here. Feeling stuck and not knowing how to move forward? You may not know where that journey will take you, but I can help be your personal guide. I believe my main role is to help observe and facilitate your personal journey. Imagine a life of clarity, love and freedom from the negative thoughts or emotions that fill your head and binds you. Imagine waking up every day feeling in control of whatever might come your way; knowing that you have the internal strength to deal with and manage it. Imagine being the best version of YOU.
Pauline Cardinal Social Work
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Sudbury, ON P3B
I use a number of evidence-based principles and approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and other appropriate modalities.
I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). I am currently accepting new clients in Ontario - offering virtual services - to individuals ages 16 and up. I have been providing counselling services for over 12 years, within the mental health and addictions field. I work with clients of all ages. I have experience working with individuals struggling with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, body-image concerns, and life stressors.
I use a number of evidence-based principles and approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Client-Centered, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and other appropriate modalities.
I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW). I am currently accepting new clients in Ontario - offering virtual services - to individuals ages 16 and up. I have been providing counselling services for over 12 years, within the mental health and addictions field. I work with clients of all ages. I have experience working with individuals struggling with a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, body-image concerns, and life stressors.
Dharshana Jayapathy
Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist , MSW, BSW, BA, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5B (Online Only)
As a compassionate therapist using a client-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space for youth, adults, seniors, caregivers, and students to develop the insights, skills, and experiences needed to overcome challenges and make positive changes that last. Using a trauma-informed lens, I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based framework; my treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches.
As a compassionate therapist using a client-centered approach, I create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic space for youth, adults, seniors, caregivers, and students to develop the insights, skills, and experiences needed to overcome challenges and make positive changes that last. Using a trauma-informed lens, I work from an anti-racist, anti-oppressive, and strengths-based framework; my treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Narrative Therapy, and Mindfulness approaches.
Nate Venema @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chatham, ON N7L (Online Only)
I have training and experience in multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, suicide and crisis de-escalation, and trauma-informed care.
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
I have training and experience in multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, suicide and crisis de-escalation, and trauma-informed care.
I am a Registered Social Worker and a virtual counselor in Ontario. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Psychology, a Master of Education, and a Master of Social Work. I provide strength-based therapy services for children, young adults, individuals, couples, and families using an anti-oppressive, integrated approach tailored to the unique needs of each new client. There are so many changes that happen as families grow and develop with the passing years, and I’m here to help with these transitions. For over twenty years I have worked in a variety of settings with diverse clients, including both long-term and brief
15 Second Videos
Desiree Brown
Julien Fortier
Meagan Szwed
Laura Boyko
Parag Ray
Marlen Iskander
Therapy for Men - David Taller
Taryn Zeger
SolutionFirst Therapy (Julian Da Cambra)
Julia Bruto
Erin Hatton
R. Maveneka Social Work Professional Corp
Teen And Adult Therapist Kristin Robinson
Kristan Barnes
LiveWise Associates-In Person Sessions!
Alia Siddiqi
Rebecca Ann Miller
Cassandra Crawford
Melissa Donohue
Josh Wade
Darshana Patel
Shawna Davis
ThriveWell Counselling Inc.
Shannon Kane
Amir Saeidi
Arthi Bala Specialized Couples And Sex Therapy
Narine Dat Sookram
Jeffery Leslie Driscoll
Kathleen McLean
Aleksei Panov
Virtual CBT Psychotherapy
Fancy Therapy Services
Brittany Marshall And Associates
Your Story Counselling
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Krystina Di Matteo
Michael Franceschetti
Karen Lynn Goslin
Harleen (Ria) Gill
Justin the Therapist
Emily Galloway
Sonam K Singh
Alpana Das-Daffern
Luminare Counselling
Mikaela Gossmann-Bond
Suhena Khosla
Speakeasy Counselling & Associates
Morgan Mackenzie
Karen M Thornton
Janelle Anderson
Gabriela Dinca | Relationships | Couples | Individuals 18+ | Seniors
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2R (Online Only)
I integrate extensive life experiences, holistic, psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, humanistic, cognitive approaches & motivational interviewing.
Accepting NEW clients! Are you searching for ways to maintain health and love in your life and relationships? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loneliness, anger, communication, low self-esteem, or aging issues? Have you experienced infidelity, trauma, betrayal, loss, and abuse, and you may feel like your life is falling apart? There is hope beyond the worry, hopelessness, and other distressing symptoms you may experience. I am passionate about guiding you towards healing to find hope, strength, resilience, & the courage to face life's challenges through nurturing, compassionate, & non-judgmental approaches.
I integrate extensive life experiences, holistic, psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, humanistic, cognitive approaches & motivational interviewing.
Accepting NEW clients! Are you searching for ways to maintain health and love in your life and relationships? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, loneliness, anger, communication, low self-esteem, or aging issues? Have you experienced infidelity, trauma, betrayal, loss, and abuse, and you may feel like your life is falling apart? There is hope beyond the worry, hopelessness, and other distressing symptoms you may experience. I am passionate about guiding you towards healing to find hope, strength, resilience, & the courage to face life's challenges through nurturing, compassionate, & non-judgmental approaches.
Anahita Jakibchuk
Registered Psychotherapist, CRPO, RP, CCPA, ROAT, MA
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L4K
I offer art therapy, Cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical behavioural therapy, and many other approaches based on each client's unique needs.
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
I offer art therapy, Cognitive behavioural therapy, motivational interviewing, Dialectical behavioural therapy, and many other approaches based on each client's unique needs.
I am a registered psychotherapist and also a registered art psychotherapist. I am located in Vaughan, ON and offer therapy who have mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. I believe that my clients have their individual and unique needs, and each person should be treated based on their specific challenges. I offer therapy sessions in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental space and I love seeing them feel better and leaving my room with good coping skills and ideas that can help them improve their mental health challenges.
Shahnaz Ahmed
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H (Online Only)
I am extensively trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Interventions.
Anger, anxiety, depression, family conflict, domestic violence, acute and chronic/complex trauma comprise some of the challenges individuals experience in their lives. If you are a person struggling with any of these issues and/or experience other mental health concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out for a brief chat to discuss whether I am the right therapist for you. I am a Registered Master of Social Worker (MSW, RSW) with over 25 years of extensive experience serving complex mental health needs for individuals, couples, and families. I offer services in English, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.
I am extensively trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma-Focused Interventions.
Anger, anxiety, depression, family conflict, domestic violence, acute and chronic/complex trauma comprise some of the challenges individuals experience in their lives. If you are a person struggling with any of these issues and/or experience other mental health concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out for a brief chat to discuss whether I am the right therapist for you. I am a Registered Master of Social Worker (MSW, RSW) with over 25 years of extensive experience serving complex mental health needs for individuals, couples, and families. I offer services in English, Bengali, Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu.
Jonathan Paynter
Registered Social Worker, RSW, AccFM, CPMed
Verified Verified
Bowmanville, ON L1C
I know that it is hard to reach out for help. Most people feel like they should be able to handle life's challenges on their own. We are an intensely social species, however, and rely on others every day for our survival. Reaching out for help to a therapist during a challenging time in your life is the smart thing to do. Get the help and support you need to get through life's many challenges, whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, going through a divorce or separation, or worrying about your children.
I know that it is hard to reach out for help. Most people feel like they should be able to handle life's challenges on their own. We are an intensely social species, however, and rely on others every day for our survival. Reaching out for help to a therapist during a challenging time in your life is the smart thing to do. Get the help and support you need to get through life's many challenges, whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, going through a divorce or separation, or worrying about your children.
Parag Ray
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
Going through a crisis or grappling with anger? Have you been mandated or advised by your counsel for anger management therapy? You've found a friend in Parag Ray. She has vast experience in domestic violence cases, violent outbursts and those involved in conflicts in the community. If you need this service to lower charges or show a willingness to improve your situation, Parag can help.
Going through a crisis or grappling with anger? Have you been mandated or advised by your counsel for anger management therapy? You've found a friend in Parag Ray. She has vast experience in domestic violence cases, violent outbursts and those involved in conflicts in the community. If you need this service to lower charges or show a willingness to improve your situation, Parag can help.
Shireen Abuhatoum
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6H
Therapy is an opportunity to solve problems, improve coping, and build a more enhanced quality of life. In therapy, my aim is to build a strong relationship with clients, one that is based on principles of trust, transparency, and collaboration. I strive to create an atmosphere that will help you to feel safe, supported, and challenged in the areas that will foster your growth.
Therapy is an opportunity to solve problems, improve coping, and build a more enhanced quality of life. In therapy, my aim is to build a strong relationship with clients, one that is based on principles of trust, transparency, and collaboration. I strive to create an atmosphere that will help you to feel safe, supported, and challenged in the areas that will foster your growth.
Core Centre Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5J
Core Centre Inc. provides assessment, consultation and counselling for children, youth and adults. Through our platform we provide online consultations, counselling and therapy with registered psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. They can assist with a variety of issues, including: learning/academic struggles, behavioural difficulties, developmental delays, autism and relationship problems, among many other challenges.
Core Centre Inc. provides assessment, consultation and counselling for children, youth and adults. Through our platform we provide online consultations, counselling and therapy with registered psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. They can assist with a variety of issues, including: learning/academic struggles, behavioural difficulties, developmental delays, autism and relationship problems, among many other challenges.
Trehani Fonseka
Registered Social Worker, MSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
London, ON N6C
[Note: RSW, Inactive/On Leave] Life can be challenging, and although we all have the inner resources to overcome these hardships, we may benefit from some extra support to move us towards mental wellness and our ideal self. As a therapist, I offer individual and group therapy to youth (ages 12-30) who present with concerns related but not limited to anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, relationships, and school/work. Together, we will co-create goals and a therapeutic plan by exploring factors that may contribute to the issue(s) at hand but also personal strengths that can be leveraged within recovery.
[Note: RSW, Inactive/On Leave] Life can be challenging, and although we all have the inner resources to overcome these hardships, we may benefit from some extra support to move us towards mental wellness and our ideal self. As a therapist, I offer individual and group therapy to youth (ages 12-30) who present with concerns related but not limited to anxiety, depression, emotion regulation, relationships, and school/work. Together, we will co-create goals and a therapeutic plan by exploring factors that may contribute to the issue(s) at hand but also personal strengths that can be leveraged within recovery.
Yvonne Dewornu-Keys
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4P
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am accepting new clients. My practice services individuals, children, youth, families, and groups. We provide psychotherapy to support emotional distress, but not limited to anxiety, lack of motivation, sadness or depression, grief, feeling overwhelmed, feeling stuck in your life and relationship issues. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. If you are struggling with mental health issues, the team at Support & Growth Counselling Services can help. We offer a variety of counselling and psychotherapy services to ensure that you and your loved ones can build happy and healthy lives.
Thank you for viewing my profile. I am accepting new clients. My practice services individuals, children, youth, families, and groups. We provide psychotherapy to support emotional distress, but not limited to anxiety, lack of motivation, sadness or depression, grief, feeling overwhelmed, feeling stuck in your life and relationship issues. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. If you are struggling with mental health issues, the team at Support & Growth Counselling Services can help. We offer a variety of counselling and psychotherapy services to ensure that you and your loved ones can build happy and healthy lives.
See more therapy options for Ontario
Motivational Interviewing Counsellors
How does motivational interviewing work?
Motivational interviewing aims to uncover a person’s internal motivation to change their life. Toward this end, the therapist listens, empathises, and collaborates with the client based on their perspective; the therapist doesn’t adhere to a predetermined plan for change or impose their viewpoint on the client. Discovering an individual’s most important reasons for change, and guiding them to achieve those changes, can empower people to shift from ambivalence to action.
Is motivational interviewing evidence-based?
Yes, research shows that motivational interviewing can help treat alcohol and substance use — and in different ways such as reducing drinking, reducing resistance, and increasing the likelihood of staying in treatment. Motivational interviewing has also been shown to help people lose weight, adhere to medication regimens, improve diet for those with Type II diabetes, and improve healthy behaviours in children.
How long does motivational interviewing last?
Motivational interviewing is a short-term therapy that can last just one or two sessions. In some cases, motivational interviewing may be used in conjunction with longer-term therapies, but for most people, motivational interviewing is a brief intervention that aims to help patients understand their personal, specific, and internal reasons for changing their life.
What differentiates motivational interviewing from person-centered therapy?
In person-centered therapy, the individual is in the driver’s seat of the treatment process, creating space for them to trust their instincts and arrive at their own solutions. The two approaches are similar because motivational interviewing is also client-centered; however, person-centered therapy is more open-ended while motivational interviewing is somewhat more structured; the goal is to change, and the therapist helps the client specifically discover their internal motivations to modify their behaviour.