Photo of Trevor Birrell, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Trevor Birrell
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M8V  (Online Only)
I offer Expressive Arts Therapy, Play Therapy, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for individuals (children, adolescents, and adults), couples, and families.
Sometimes in life, the challenges we face seem insurmountable. The loss too great. The grief unbearable. We were never meant to do this alone. We are designed for relationship. Allow me to bear witness to your journey. To celebrate your successes and grieve your losses. Let me use our relationship to shed a light on who you are alone and who you are in the world.
I offer Expressive Arts Therapy, Play Therapy, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy for individuals (children, adolescents, and adults), couples, and families.
Sometimes in life, the challenges we face seem insurmountable. The loss too great. The grief unbearable. We were never meant to do this alone. We are designed for relationship. Allow me to bear witness to your journey. To celebrate your successes and grieve your losses. Let me use our relationship to shed a light on who you are alone and who you are in the world.
(647) 277-5069 View (647) 277-5069
Photo of Shiva Movafaghian, MA, PTI, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Shiva Movafaghian
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, PTI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M2K
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by worry, uncertainty, or fear about your child's future? I am a dedicated child &youth therapist, with more than 15 years experience, specializing in play therapy. I am the founder of Alpha Child Therapy Centre. My expertise encompasses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, art therapy, or family therapy and coaching parents in their parenthood journey. My goal is to provide compassionate support and empowering young minds to thrive. I create safe and supportive connection with my clients. I am passionate about mental well-being and guiding my clients towards brighter tomorrows.
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by worry, uncertainty, or fear about your child's future? I am a dedicated child &youth therapist, with more than 15 years experience, specializing in play therapy. I am the founder of Alpha Child Therapy Centre. My expertise encompasses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, art therapy, or family therapy and coaching parents in their parenthood journey. My goal is to provide compassionate support and empowering young minds to thrive. I create safe and supportive connection with my clients. I am passionate about mental well-being and guiding my clients towards brighter tomorrows.
(289) 302-7806 View (289) 302-7806
Photo of Rachel Jessome, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Rachel Jessome
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4M
Rachel integrates a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and Play Therapy.
“My therapist just gets me”… is exactly what wellbe social worker and therapist, Rachel strives to hear from her patients after every session. Rachel believes having a genuine connection to her clients is the most important part to any therapeutic relationship. Equipped with a Master’s degree in Social Work and specializing in children, teens, and their families, Rachel has supported patients from diverse walks of life and in various settings including schools, shelters, and children’s mental health agencies.
Rachel integrates a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy, and Play Therapy.
“My therapist just gets me”… is exactly what wellbe social worker and therapist, Rachel strives to hear from her patients after every session. Rachel believes having a genuine connection to her clients is the most important part to any therapeutic relationship. Equipped with a Master’s degree in Social Work and specializing in children, teens, and their families, Rachel has supported patients from diverse walks of life and in various settings including schools, shelters, and children’s mental health agencies.
(437) 371-8910 View (437) 371-8910
Photo of James Gangl, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
James Gangl
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6R
I let clients lead and together, we'll look at what the role of anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or self-esteem might play for you in your relationships.
Many things might be motivating your search for a therapist. Maybe you're seeking self improvement. Maybe life isn't turning out quite like you hoped. Maybe you're dealing with the aftershocks of trauma or trying to find meaning after a significant loss. Whatever brought you here, I want to hear your story. We'll work together to deeply understand what doesn't feel quite right in your life, but we'll also celebrate the things that do. Together, we'll create a nurturing space for your voice to be heard and your story to be told.
I let clients lead and together, we'll look at what the role of anger, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or self-esteem might play for you in your relationships.
Many things might be motivating your search for a therapist. Maybe you're seeking self improvement. Maybe life isn't turning out quite like you hoped. Maybe you're dealing with the aftershocks of trauma or trying to find meaning after a significant loss. Whatever brought you here, I want to hear your story. We'll work together to deeply understand what doesn't feel quite right in your life, but we'll also celebrate the things that do. Together, we'll create a nurturing space for your voice to be heard and your story to be told.
(647) 492-9213 View (647) 492-9213
Photo of Brent Mulrooney, PhD, Psychologist
Brent Mulrooney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
, psychodynamic family therapy) and play therapy (for children).
Deciding to seek help is a powerful step toward better mental health. Through my experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I understand that difficulties may arise regardless of one's age or phase of life. From life challenges to transition periods (e.g., changing careers, schools, relationships), to traumatic experiences, it can be difficult to make sense of our selves or our directions. I am proud to support clients from all walks of life (inclusive of all gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, races, cultures, and relationship types) in achieving their own unique vision of success.
, psychodynamic family therapy) and play therapy (for children).
Deciding to seek help is a powerful step toward better mental health. Through my experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I understand that difficulties may arise regardless of one's age or phase of life. From life challenges to transition periods (e.g., changing careers, schools, relationships), to traumatic experiences, it can be difficult to make sense of our selves or our directions. I am proud to support clients from all walks of life (inclusive of all gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, races, cultures, and relationship types) in achieving their own unique vision of success.
(647) 370-3759 View (647) 370-3759
Photo of undefined - Ripple Effect Services, CCW, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Ripple Effect Services
Registered Social Worker, CCW, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S
Our Registered Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists and Counsellors draw from diverse skills in Art Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, drama and play therapy and a wide range of passions and interests.
The Ripple Effect. A new way of counselling. A new way of living. Neuroscience-informed counselling provides the tools to understand and create the conditions to be our best selves and gain insight on how to enhance our feelings of safety and connection. With Ripple Effect Services, you can find greater clarity for navigating life’s choices. Our revolutionary model integrates polyvagal, IFS, and relational approaches. We believe this information forms the basis of essential life skills from which anyone can benefit.
Our Registered Social Workers, Registered Psychotherapists and Counsellors draw from diverse skills in Art Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, drama and play therapy and a wide range of passions and interests.
The Ripple Effect. A new way of counselling. A new way of living. Neuroscience-informed counselling provides the tools to understand and create the conditions to be our best selves and gain insight on how to enhance our feelings of safety and connection. With Ripple Effect Services, you can find greater clarity for navigating life’s choices. Our revolutionary model integrates polyvagal, IFS, and relational approaches. We believe this information forms the basis of essential life skills from which anyone can benefit.
(416) 605-1099 View (416) 605-1099
Photo of Jennifer Ashiedu, MCCOUN, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Jennifer Ashiedu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MCCOUN
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M1T  (Online Only)
I provide therapeutic services using an integrated framework of evidenced-based approaches: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Behaviour Therapy, Solution-Focused, Play Therapy, Person-Centred, ACT & Psychoeducation.
Do you need help with managing ADHD, stress, anxiety, depression, bullying, behavioural issues, social challenges, social and emotional skills, relationship concerns, life transition concerns, trauma and grief and loss, etc? Recognizing your courage to seek therapy, I understand, appreciate, and applaud you, and you matter! Together, we would identify, explore, review, and challenge the concern and bring about the needed change.
I provide therapeutic services using an integrated framework of evidenced-based approaches: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Narrative Behaviour Therapy, Solution-Focused, Play Therapy, Person-Centred, ACT & Psychoeducation.
Do you need help with managing ADHD, stress, anxiety, depression, bullying, behavioural issues, social challenges, social and emotional skills, relationship concerns, life transition concerns, trauma and grief and loss, etc? Recognizing your courage to seek therapy, I understand, appreciate, and applaud you, and you matter! Together, we would identify, explore, review, and challenge the concern and bring about the needed change.
(289) 206-9917 View (289) 206-9917
Photo of Lesley Swartz, RP, MEd, EXAT, Registered Psychotherapist
Lesley Swartz
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd, EXAT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6J
I am a registered psychotherapist and a certified expressive arts therapist. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 15 years and am interested in promoting self healing, relationships, growth and change. I have trained extensively in expressive arts, gestalt and developmental somatic psychotherapy and have pursued professional training in emotionally focused couples therapy (EFT), trauma informed therapy, narrative therapy and child and play therapy. I create a safe and interactive therapeutic atmosphere, and work from a resource oriented, somatic awareness based perspective, focussing on both short and long term needs.
I am a registered psychotherapist and a certified expressive arts therapist. I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 15 years and am interested in promoting self healing, relationships, growth and change. I have trained extensively in expressive arts, gestalt and developmental somatic psychotherapy and have pursued professional training in emotionally focused couples therapy (EFT), trauma informed therapy, narrative therapy and child and play therapy. I create a safe and interactive therapeutic atmosphere, and work from a resource oriented, somatic awareness based perspective, focussing on both short and long term needs.
(365) 601-1722 View (365) 601-1722
Photo of Julia G Johnson, MA, RP, CCC, LPC, RPT-S, Registered Psychotherapist
Julia G Johnson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H  (Online Only)
Johnson is trained in Structural Family Therapy, Play-Therapy, EFT & Attachment therapies: Theraplay and DDP.
Ms. Johnson provides English/Spanish psychotherapy for children/youth/adults. The hardships we face in life can have an impact on the health and mental well-being of us and our love ones. Ms. Johnson's goal is to help people who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma succeed, and find inner peace. She provides psychotherapy for people of diverse backgrounds, including Christians, who want to overcome fears and limitations, achieve spiritual growth, and create meaningful relationships with others. She is also a Play Therapist Supervisor who cares and works well with children 2 & up, families, parents and couples.
Johnson is trained in Structural Family Therapy, Play-Therapy, EFT & Attachment therapies: Theraplay and DDP.
Ms. Johnson provides English/Spanish psychotherapy for children/youth/adults. The hardships we face in life can have an impact on the health and mental well-being of us and our love ones. Ms. Johnson's goal is to help people who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma succeed, and find inner peace. She provides psychotherapy for people of diverse backgrounds, including Christians, who want to overcome fears and limitations, achieve spiritual growth, and create meaningful relationships with others. She is also a Play Therapist Supervisor who cares and works well with children 2 & up, families, parents and couples.
(289) 272-9427 View (289) 272-9427
Photo of Shannon Burton, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Shannon Burton
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6S
Hi there, I am a Child, Youth & Family Therapist (RSW)/Paediatric specialist offering therapy to children & their families regarding child social, emotional & behavioural challenges & complex family dynamics. I use of creative methods (movement, art, music, play, sandtray) to supplement evidence based Cognitive Behavioural & Dialectical Behavioural Therapy approaches. *Not a general therapist- services are very specialized to children's needs and attunement to their attachment & relationships are incorporated into the therapy sessions. *IN PERSON SESSIONS OFFERED *MSW, RSW - Covered by insurance
Hi there, I am a Child, Youth & Family Therapist (RSW)/Paediatric specialist offering therapy to children & their families regarding child social, emotional & behavioural challenges & complex family dynamics. I use of creative methods (movement, art, music, play, sandtray) to supplement evidence based Cognitive Behavioural & Dialectical Behavioural Therapy approaches. *Not a general therapist- services are very specialized to children's needs and attunement to their attachment & relationships are incorporated into the therapy sessions. *IN PERSON SESSIONS OFFERED *MSW, RSW - Covered by insurance
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Photo of Agnès Dupin, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Agnès Dupin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6H
I am dedicated to the emotional well being of youth, children and their families and to help them find the equilibrium that respects everyone's needs, temperament, developmental stage and aspirations. I use a wide range of approaches tailored to the child and family such as play therapy, art therapy, narrative and solution focused approaches, mindfulness, parent-child attachment and positive behavioural support strategies.
I am dedicated to the emotional well being of youth, children and their families and to help them find the equilibrium that respects everyone's needs, temperament, developmental stage and aspirations. I use a wide range of approaches tailored to the child and family such as play therapy, art therapy, narrative and solution focused approaches, mindfulness, parent-child attachment and positive behavioural support strategies.
(365) 649-1791 View (365) 649-1791
Photo of Aneliya Saley, MTA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Aneliya Saley
Registered Psychotherapist, MTA, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R  (Online Only)
I specialize in expressive arts, such as music and play therapy.
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. Are you and/or your child having struggling, having difficulty regulating emotions? Perhaps you are worried about how your child is coping with changes. In parenting, there are many challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults and life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to function successfully within their daily environments.
I specialize in expressive arts, such as music and play therapy.
How to find hope? If you are feeling overwhelmed, engaging in therapy can help you feel calm again. Are you and/or your child having struggling, having difficulty regulating emotions? Perhaps you are worried about how your child is coping with changes. In parenting, there are many challenges involved in guiding little people towards becoming adults and life can force families to face events that impact children's ability to function successfully within their daily environments.
(437) 800-0685 View (437) 800-0685
Photo of Daphne Browne, MSc, EXAT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Daphne Browne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSc, EXAT
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4K
Can be talk, art, play, movement, storytelling, poetry, mindfulness, cultivating compassion.
Are you looking for support through a significant loss, making difficult career or lifestyle changes, in need of greater emotional balance, or want to develop more self-awareness and connection with your life? Life is challenging and can sometimes become overwhelming to be able to rebalance our emotional, mental or physical health on our own. With a compassionate therapist, you can be supported to be present to yourself and explore in a safe space what is happening and what is possible.
Can be talk, art, play, movement, storytelling, poetry, mindfulness, cultivating compassion.
Are you looking for support through a significant loss, making difficult career or lifestyle changes, in need of greater emotional balance, or want to develop more self-awareness and connection with your life? Life is challenging and can sometimes become overwhelming to be able to rebalance our emotional, mental or physical health on our own. With a compassionate therapist, you can be supported to be present to yourself and explore in a safe space what is happening and what is possible.
(365) 601-1433 View (365) 601-1433
Photo of undefined - Leaside Child Therapy Centre, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leaside Child Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4G
I use a variety of play based activities, games, books, videos, puppets and role plays to help children learn new concepts, develop insight and learn new coping skills.
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
I use a variety of play based activities, games, books, videos, puppets and role plays to help children learn new concepts, develop insight and learn new coping skills.
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
(416) 505-3590 View (416) 505-3590
Photo of Malerie Ann Lipa, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Malerie Ann Lipa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4G
Children are invited to express themselves in counselling through art, puppetry, sand and play.
Welcome. I'm so glad you're here. I've been dedicated to the field of child, youth, and family mental health for over ten years. It's so tough to watch your child struggle and I believe that partnering with caregivers is key to helping young people reach their goals. I have extensive experience supporting clients with mental health concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, loss, family challenges, parent-child conflict and troubles with school. We'll work together to get you and your child where you want to be. I also work closely with young adults to manage that amazing yet completely confusing time in life.
Children are invited to express themselves in counselling through art, puppetry, sand and play.
Welcome. I'm so glad you're here. I've been dedicated to the field of child, youth, and family mental health for over ten years. It's so tough to watch your child struggle and I believe that partnering with caregivers is key to helping young people reach their goals. I have extensive experience supporting clients with mental health concerns including, but not limited to: anxiety, depression, loss, family challenges, parent-child conflict and troubles with school. We'll work together to get you and your child where you want to be. I also work closely with young adults to manage that amazing yet completely confusing time in life.
(647) 493-2720 View (647) 493-2720
Photo of Larae Harbour, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Larae Harbour
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4E
I am trained in several modalities, and lean into anti-oppressive psychotherapy, attachment-based family therapy, play, and trauma-informed approaches.
Are you looking for a therapist who will celebrate you for you as you explore connecting to your truths and healing? Would you like to feel seen, have your voice heard, and get active support when going through a life transition? I offer a kind and gentle approach to address the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex stressors. As a therapist who is black, trans, and queer, I bring my whole authentic self to create a safer container for the therapist and client relationship. Together we can process trauma or complex situations, and develop tools for advocating and supporting you.
I am trained in several modalities, and lean into anti-oppressive psychotherapy, attachment-based family therapy, play, and trauma-informed approaches.
Are you looking for a therapist who will celebrate you for you as you explore connecting to your truths and healing? Would you like to feel seen, have your voice heard, and get active support when going through a life transition? I offer a kind and gentle approach to address the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, and complex stressors. As a therapist who is black, trans, and queer, I bring my whole authentic self to create a safer container for the therapist and client relationship. Together we can process trauma or complex situations, and develop tools for advocating and supporting you.
(289) 806-3049 View (289) 806-3049
Photo of Meghan Bird, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Meghan Bird
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5R
For interested clients, I also love to bring creativity into the therapy space through arts- and play-based interventions.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and virtual sessions. I provide psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and unresolved trauma. I have experience supporting survivors of sexual violence as well as individuals experiencing familial conflict and estrangement. As a person with lived experience, I am committed to supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those on their journeys of self-discovery.
For interested clients, I also love to bring creativity into the therapy space through arts- and play-based interventions.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and virtual sessions. I provide psychotherapy to adolescents, young adults, and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and unresolved trauma. I have experience supporting survivors of sexual violence as well as individuals experiencing familial conflict and estrangement. As a person with lived experience, I am committed to supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially those on their journeys of self-discovery.
(647) 560-8631 View (647) 560-8631
Photo of Kavya Bhardwaj, MSc, RP (Q), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kavya Bhardwaj
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSc, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5B
Booking the first appointment with a mental health professional can feel scary and intimidating. I recognize the anxiety some people may experience while booking their first appointment. And I value your resilience! You are taking a big, valuable step! I am specialized in providing a safe and confidential space to explore and process the feelings you are experiencing. My approach is evidence-informed, holistic, with awareness of the physical, spiritual and emotional growth of clients. For my personal growth, I like to do Yoga (I am a certified trainer, too), and play string instruments.
Booking the first appointment with a mental health professional can feel scary and intimidating. I recognize the anxiety some people may experience while booking their first appointment. And I value your resilience! You are taking a big, valuable step! I am specialized in providing a safe and confidential space to explore and process the feelings you are experiencing. My approach is evidence-informed, holistic, with awareness of the physical, spiritual and emotional growth of clients. For my personal growth, I like to do Yoga (I am a certified trainer, too), and play string instruments.
(289) 302-0355 View (289) 302-0355
Photo of Gabrielle Arruda, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Gabrielle Arruda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), I incorporate art therapy and play therapy techniques to facilitate self-expression and healing.
Too often, people endure their obstacles alone, convinced that they must shoulder their burdens in silence. Whether it's a child struggling with emotional regulation, a teenager navigating the complexities of anxiety amid life's changes, or an adult wrestling with depression, everyone can benefit from specialized support at various points in their lives.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt Therapy and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), I incorporate art therapy and play therapy techniques to facilitate self-expression and healing.
Too often, people endure their obstacles alone, convinced that they must shoulder their burdens in silence. Whether it's a child struggling with emotional regulation, a teenager navigating the complexities of anxiety amid life's changes, or an adult wrestling with depression, everyone can benefit from specialized support at various points in their lives.
(365) 601-4322 View (365) 601-4322
Photo of Dr. Tamara Libfeld, PsyD, CPysch, Psychologist
Dr. Tamara Libfeld
Psychologist, PsyD, CPysch
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6G
I am a licensed psychologist with dual registration as a Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist and a Family Psychologist. I offer dyadic parent-infant/child psychotherapy for toddlers (2-5), play therapy for children (6-11) and talk therapy for preteens and teens (12-18). I also provide psychoeducational, ADHD and diagnostic/social emotional assessments for children and adolescents. These can include testing for learning disorders, giftedness, mental health disorders, ADHD, developmental concerns, intellectual disabilities, and assessments for post-secondary school.
I am a licensed psychologist with dual registration as a Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychologist and a Family Psychologist. I offer dyadic parent-infant/child psychotherapy for toddlers (2-5), play therapy for children (6-11) and talk therapy for preteens and teens (12-18). I also provide psychoeducational, ADHD and diagnostic/social emotional assessments for children and adolescents. These can include testing for learning disorders, giftedness, mental health disorders, ADHD, developmental concerns, intellectual disabilities, and assessments for post-secondary school.
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Online Counsellors

Is online therapy as effective as in-person?

Numerous studies suggest that online therapy can be as effective as in-person therapy. However, further research is needed to determine if online therapy provides the same benefits across all client populations. Individuals with severe mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or those who may benefit from in-person check-ins, like those with eating disorders, may not experience the same level of benefit from online therapy. Nonetheless, the success of online therapy, much like in-person therapy, often hinges on the quality of the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client rather than the specific modality of therapy used.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of therapy conducted online?

One of the main advantages of online therapy is its convenience for both clients and therapists. It also allows clients who require specialised therapy to access a wider range of professionals than they could with only in-person sessions. Additionally, online therapy may be a more affordable option in some cases and often offers the same insurance benefits as in-person therapy. However, online therapy may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who value face-to-face interaction with a therapist. Therapists may find it more challenging to assess clients accurately in an online setting due to reduced nonverbal cues on camera. There is also the increased risk that disruptions caused by external factors, such as technology malfunctions, can hinder the therapy session. For these reasons, many therapists offer a "hybrid" therapeutic approach, alternating between seeing clients in-person and online.

Is online therapy suitable for children and adolescents?

Just like with adults, the accessibility and convenience of online therapy can greatly benefit children and adolescents. In fact, children and adolescents may be more accustomed to navigating online platforms than older adults, making online sessions feel more natural for them. Teens might also be interested in using additional online tools, such as therapist-recommended apps, as an adjunct to online therapy sessions. Apps for developing CBT skills, practicing mindfulness exercises, or tracking thoughts and moods can be helpful for teens receiving therapy. However, it's important to note that not all therapeutic modalities are well-suited to online therapy, especially those used with younger children. For example, play therapy, which helps younger children express their emotions, often requires in-person sessions to be fully effective.

Can I receive prescriptions and medication management with online therapy?

The ability for psychiatrists to prescribe medications through online therapy varies based on the medication and the states where the medical professional and client are located. While many prescribing regulations were relaxed during the COVID-19 pandemic, some states still enforce rules, especially concerning controlled substances, which may mandate an in-person visit before prescribing. Generally, however, medical professionals can prescribe non-controlled substances through online therapy sessions just as they do during in-person sessions.