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Check out counsellors located nearby or offering teletherapy in Ontario below.

Online Therapists

Photo of Staci N Weingust, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Staci N Weingust
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Oshawa, ON L1G  (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Healthcare, with extensive experience working with clients with mental health issues, addiction issues, and court-related issues. During this time, I have worked with individuals of varying ages, couples, families and groups. I see people with a varied range of issues including mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, borderline personality, issues of psychosis, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, sexual issues, conduct disorder, anger issues and behavioural concerns.
I have over 25 years of experience in the field of Healthcare, with extensive experience working with clients with mental health issues, addiction issues, and court-related issues. During this time, I have worked with individuals of varying ages, couples, families and groups. I see people with a varied range of issues including mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar), trauma, borderline personality, issues of psychosis, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, eating disorders, dual diagnosis, sexual issues, conduct disorder, anger issues and behavioural concerns.
(647) 371-0849 View (647) 371-0849
Photo of Jesse Roberts, MA, CPsych, Psychologist
Jesse Roberts
Psychologist, MA, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M3C
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; WSIB; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist offering individual therapy and assessment services (ADHD; WSIB; psychodiagnostic) through Silm Centre for Mental Health. I use a cognitive behavioral approach in my clinical work (e.g., CBT, DBT, CPT) and work collaboratively with clients to develop meaningful and individualized treatment plans. I see clients for a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, substance use issues, bipolar and psychotic disorders, and issues of emotion regulation (e.g. anger, self-harming).
(437) 747-5628 View (437) 747-5628
Photo of Julien Fortier, MSW, BMT, RSW, Registered Social Worker
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.
(647) 492-5144 View (647) 492-5144
Photo of undefined - Hummingbird Therapy Clinic, CTTS, CTRP, DAAETS, Registered Psychotherapist
Hummingbird Therapy Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, CTTS, CTRP, DAAETS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sharon, ON L0G
I value the the trust that a client places in me. I safeguard your vulnerability and work at your comfort level. My philosophy of treatment is the use of evidence-based and trauma-informed practices in a strength-based approach. Helping clients become empowered in their own healing, I am trained in TF-CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Structured Intervention Trauma-Child and Adolescent (SIT-CAP). I specialize in trauma treatment, grief and loss, stress, anxiety and mood disorders. Together, we create the vision for what healing will look, feel and become in your life.
I value the the trust that a client places in me. I safeguard your vulnerability and work at your comfort level. My philosophy of treatment is the use of evidence-based and trauma-informed practices in a strength-based approach. Helping clients become empowered in their own healing, I am trained in TF-CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), and Structured Intervention Trauma-Child and Adolescent (SIT-CAP). I specialize in trauma treatment, grief and loss, stress, anxiety and mood disorders. Together, we create the vision for what healing will look, feel and become in your life.
(289) 273-4759 View (289) 273-4759
Photo of undefined - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Milton, ON L9T  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(782) 400-0486 View (782) 400-0486
Photo of undefined - Durham Psychologists, CPsych, Psychologist
Durham Psychologists
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1S
Durham Psychologists is a full service psychology clinic located in Ajax, Ontario. Our highly qualified, registered, and experienced clinicians are happy to help you. Please feel free to have a look at our website and learn more about this reputable clinic.
Durham Psychologists is a full service psychology clinic located in Ajax, Ontario. Our highly qualified, registered, and experienced clinicians are happy to help you. Please feel free to have a look at our website and learn more about this reputable clinic.
(289) 802-2303 View (289) 802-2303
Photo of undefined - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8K  (Online Only)
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
We are an online counselling agency so do not provide services in person. Strength Counselling Services has licensed, experienced therapists who use evidence-based practices, prioritize client needs, and maintain ethical standards. We offer culturally sensitive, affordable services in a supportive environment. We offer a comprehensive goals assessment, regularly assess progress, and collaborate with other professionals. We provide transparency in our fees and for thirteen years now have held a positive reputation of trust, and client success. Lastly, ensuring our clients' privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us.
(249) 202-2308 View (249) 202-2308
Photo of undefined - FVB Psychologists, PhD, Psychologist
FVB Psychologists
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5G
Our assessment and therapy services are conducted by an experienced team of clinicians who joined Fleming Vigna Balmer after gaining many years of valuable experience in the public sector; for example, working in hospitals, universities, rehabilitation centres, social service agencies, and community-based clinics. As a team, we are able to offer a rich, experience-based range of clinical services. All of our clinicians are psychologists or psychological associates registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. This means we are independent practitioners licenced to assess, diagnose, and treat the full range of psychological disorders ranging from problems in living to serious mental health issues. In addition, we are consulting psychologists to the pilot recruitment programmes of a number of airlines including Air Canada, Jazz Aviation LP, and Sky Regional Airlines. At Fleming Vigna Balmer services are provided in English, French, Italian, Vietnamese, and Afrikaans.
Our assessment and therapy services are conducted by an experienced team of clinicians who joined Fleming Vigna Balmer after gaining many years of valuable experience in the public sector; for example, working in hospitals, universities, rehabilitation centres, social service agencies, and community-based clinics. As a team, we are able to offer a rich, experience-based range of clinical services. All of our clinicians are psychologists or psychological associates registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario. This means we are independent practitioners licenced to assess, diagnose, and treat the full range of psychological disorders ranging from problems in living to serious mental health issues. In addition, we are consulting psychologists to the pilot recruitment programmes of a number of airlines including Air Canada, Jazz Aviation LP, and Sky Regional Airlines. At Fleming Vigna Balmer services are provided in English, French, Italian, Vietnamese, and Afrikaans.
(844) 245-7821 x1 View (844) 245-7821 x1
Photo of undefined - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Burlington, ON L7N  (Online Only)
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
Currently, we provide online counseling services exclusively, featuring a talented team of counselors from diverse backgrounds who can tackle a wide range of mental health issues. Our primary goal is to nurture the holistic well-being of our clients, addressing their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects through exceptional counseling services. We cater to individuals, couples, and families, tailoring our approach for each unique client. In the event of client dissatisfaction with a therapist, we pledge to either find an appropriate replacement or suggest an unaffiliated alternative expert to ensure their needs are met.
(289) 806-1148 View (289) 806-1148
Photo of undefined - Holt Counselling & Consulting Services, MEd, CCC, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Holt Counselling & Consulting Services
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Belmont, ON N0L  (Online Only)
Over the past 26 years I have specialized in working with individuals (adults and youth, male and female) who have done something of a sexual nature that has gotten them into trouble, or have engaged in violent behaviour towards their intimate partner. I also support families with safety planning. I am a qualified expert in Criminal, Family, and Superior court to conduct risk assessments for individuals who have committed a sexual based offence, as well provide the courts with recommendations for treatment options for those individuals. I am also specialized in working with clients suffering with anger management issues.
Over the past 26 years I have specialized in working with individuals (adults and youth, male and female) who have done something of a sexual nature that has gotten them into trouble, or have engaged in violent behaviour towards their intimate partner. I also support families with safety planning. I am a qualified expert in Criminal, Family, and Superior court to conduct risk assessments for individuals who have committed a sexual based offence, as well provide the courts with recommendations for treatment options for those individuals. I am also specialized in working with clients suffering with anger management issues.
(519) 319-9491 View (519) 319-9491
Photo of undefined - Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cobourg, ON K9A  (Online Only)
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
I am a registered social Worker and Psychotherapist in Ontario. I am also a member of Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I obtained my bachelor of Social Work from the University of Manitoba and obtained my Masters of Social Work from the University of Windsor. I have a certificate in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). I also have a certificate in Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapy and Brian Spotting. I started my career by providing support to individuals who were struggling with life challenges. I have experience working with a variety of areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, separation, and sel
(343) 307-4960 View (343) 307-4960
Photo of Dr. Cheryl Birch, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Cheryl Birch
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Orangeville, ON L9W
Warm Greetings! I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist serving Orangeville, Caledon, Shelburne, New Tecumseth, Erin, Grand Valley and surrounding communities. My doctorate was completed in 2008, and I have experience in a wide variety of clinical settings. Individual assessment and therapy support is available for adolescents and adults in my clinic. It is my passionate commitment to respect clients' strengths and diverse backgrounds. I truly count it a privilege to walk alongside others in their pursuit of wellness. My approach is caring and non-judgmental. I am dedicated to a scientist-practitioner approach in providing treatments that have proven effectiveness.
Warm Greetings! I am a Registered Clinical Psychologist serving Orangeville, Caledon, Shelburne, New Tecumseth, Erin, Grand Valley and surrounding communities. My doctorate was completed in 2008, and I have experience in a wide variety of clinical settings. Individual assessment and therapy support is available for adolescents and adults in my clinic. It is my passionate commitment to respect clients' strengths and diverse backgrounds. I truly count it a privilege to walk alongside others in their pursuit of wellness. My approach is caring and non-judgmental. I am dedicated to a scientist-practitioner approach in providing treatments that have proven effectiveness.
(844) 629-9636 View (844) 629-9636
Photo of Lisa Trepanier, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Lisa Trepanier
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ajax, ON L1S
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide psychotherapy and other forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I teach at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
I am dually trained as a Neuropsychologist and Clinical Psychologist. I am able to provide thorough examinations of your brain health, mental health, and/or personality. I actively provide psychotherapy and other forms of psychological treatment related to these issues. I teach at York University, am on Faculty at the University of Toronto and regularly attend workshops/conferences, which helps to keep my knowledge current and practical. Common referral issues relate to work, mood, coping, chronic stress, chronic pain, or an acquired problem. Whether you struggle with your physical and/or mental health, I can assist you with improving both.
(844) 332-2482 View (844) 332-2482
Photo of undefined - Building Bridges Psychotherapy, RP, MSc, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Building Bridges Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
Accepting New Clients: In-Person & Phone/Video. We believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. We have helped individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As relational therapists, we appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. We do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, we see our clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. We see strengths and we see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(226) 702-8590 View (226) 702-8590
Photo of undefined - The Therapy Centre, PhD, Psychologist
The Therapy Centre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4S
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise and tailors treatment to target therapeutic goals.
The Therapy Centre is a full service psychology practice. We offer services to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We offer psychological and neuropsychological assessment and treatment services for a wide variety of issues listed below. All of our clinicians are well trained in empirically validated treatment models, including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Relational Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR. Each of our clinicians has an area of expertise and tailors treatment to target therapeutic goals.
(647) 492-3156 View (647) 492-3156
Photo of Renuka Gupta Phd, RP, CHT, PLRT, HART, Registered Psychotherapist
Renuka Gupta Phd
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CHT, PLRT, HART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G  (Online Only)
Outside are just manifestations, all creations are within - Rens . I have done PhD in Clinical Psychology & have always been a believer of something far beyond Science i.e. Spirituality, which is why I feel deeply that, the ones who find me and eventually come to me, were destined. My work is a mix of Science as well as Psycho-spiritual Therapy. Working towards Awareness, finding Purpose, Acceptance, Observing, eventually leading to Healing, has been the path I walk on. Remember : You are not just a part of Creation,the Creator of every part is you. FREE Email Consultations, no calls, Direct Paid Therapy :-) Blessings & Healing !
Outside are just manifestations, all creations are within - Rens . I have done PhD in Clinical Psychology & have always been a believer of something far beyond Science i.e. Spirituality, which is why I feel deeply that, the ones who find me and eventually come to me, were destined. My work is a mix of Science as well as Psycho-spiritual Therapy. Working towards Awareness, finding Purpose, Acceptance, Observing, eventually leading to Healing, has been the path I walk on. Remember : You are not just a part of Creation,the Creator of every part is you. FREE Email Consultations, no calls, Direct Paid Therapy :-) Blessings & Healing !
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Photo of Carole M. Walker, MSW, RSW, Hon, Psych, Registered Social Worker
Carole M. Walker
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, Hon, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midhurst, ON L9X
Need Help? I specialize in RELATIONSHIPS, COUPLE & SEX ISSUES, TRAUMA, PTSD, HYPNOTHERAPY, GRIEF, and LIFE PURPOSE issues. I work with individuals, couples, and groups. I can offer you sound therapeutic support in a comfortable and peaceful setting. My approach is non-judgement, client-centered, practical and results oriented. Together we achieve your desired goals!
Need Help? I specialize in RELATIONSHIPS, COUPLE & SEX ISSUES, TRAUMA, PTSD, HYPNOTHERAPY, GRIEF, and LIFE PURPOSE issues. I work with individuals, couples, and groups. I can offer you sound therapeutic support in a comfortable and peaceful setting. My approach is non-judgement, client-centered, practical and results oriented. Together we achieve your desired goals!
(249) 559-0010 View (249) 559-0010
Photo of Giovanni Foti, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Giovanni Foti
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Georgetown, ON L7G
Dr. Foti has extensive experience in helping children, adolescents, and families address a wide range of emotional, behavioural and relationship issues. Rather than viewing psychoeducational assessments as a means of simply diagnosing problems with learning and behaviour, he views the process as a tool for identifying and communicating client strengths, as well as specific strategies for improving client functioning and quality of life. Dr. Foti also provides therapy to children, adolescents and families, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Dr. Foti has extensive experience in helping children, adolescents, and families address a wide range of emotional, behavioural and relationship issues. Rather than viewing psychoeducational assessments as a means of simply diagnosing problems with learning and behaviour, he views the process as a tool for identifying and communicating client strengths, as well as specific strategies for improving client functioning and quality of life. Dr. Foti also provides therapy to children, adolescents and families, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
(289) 301-7651 View (289) 301-7651
Photo of Allison Reeves, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Allison Reeves
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6K
My name is Dr. Allison Reeves and I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist in Ontario and an Assistant Professor in Psychology at the University of Guelph & Guelph-Humber. "Parkdale Psychology" is my clinical practice, which is located at Queen and Dufferin in South Parkdale, Toronto. I offer therapy services for those who are committed to personal growth and who are looking for support in overcoming life's challenges. I also provide couples therapy as well as assessment and diagnosis. My psychotherapy services are trauma informed and LGBTQ+ affirming.
My name is Dr. Allison Reeves and I am a registered Clinical and Forensic Psychologist in Ontario and an Assistant Professor in Psychology at the University of Guelph & Guelph-Humber. "Parkdale Psychology" is my clinical practice, which is located at Queen and Dufferin in South Parkdale, Toronto. I offer therapy services for those who are committed to personal growth and who are looking for support in overcoming life's challenges. I also provide couples therapy as well as assessment and diagnosis. My psychotherapy services are trauma informed and LGBTQ+ affirming.
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Photo of Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Brian Ajamhassani @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Guelph, ON N1G  (Online Only)
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
When life gets hard to deal with, it is good to have someone to talk to; Someone with the expertise, professionalism, and compassion to listen, ask the right questions to create clarity and help us find the solution or at least see the light at the end of the tunnel. When dealing with mental and emotional pain, someone with the proper training and experience could be the right person to turn to. I utilize over 10 years of experience in therapy practice to the full benefit of my clients dealing with grief, depression, and anxiety, including those dealing with chronic illnesses such as cancer, as well as youth and parents'
(867) 731-0384 View (867) 731-0384

See more therapy options for Waterdown

Bipolar Disorder Counsellors

What is the most successful approach to treating bipolar disorder?

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, and a number of therapies have been found effective in providing support to patients as they gain the skills to understand and manage the disorder. Family-focused therapy is often helpful for children and teens (the majority of cases develop before age 19); it aims to minimize mood cycling by improving family communication and reducing conflict. It also helps young people navigate the developmental challenges the disorder can create. Cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT) and variants such as Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)help patients manage the thoughts and feelings that influence bipolar mood swings as well as develop specific behavioral strategies to counteract them.

What happens in therapy for bipolar disorder?

Because the patterns of mood switching and its triggers differ for each person and can change over time, mood tracking or monitoring becomes a basic way patients learn about the nature of their condition. One of the most common features of therapy is finding a workable method of mood monitoring, in which patients track their daily activities and rate their moods, then use the findings to adjust routines accordingly. Patients learn ways of handling the many stresses that arise in life so that they do not trigger mood swings.

What kinds of problems does therapy help with?

Like many other mental health disorders, BPD is heavily influenced by stress; therapy provides skills for coping with stressors of all kinds. Therapy is extremely important for helping individuals identify the situations that may trigger mood switching, so that mood swings can be prevented. Therapy may especially target recognition of the early stages of mood change so that they can be managed. In addition, therapy helps patients deal with the significant amount of turbulence the disorder can create in relationships and in work life.

What is the goal of therapy for bipolar disorder?

Therapy helps patients set up their lives to maintain stability so that their mood isn’t constantly threatened by daily events. Perhaps the first task of therapy is to educate people about the nature of the disorder. At the same time, a primary goal of therapy is to enhance adherence to drug treatment. Extended periods of mood stability can prompt patients to discontinue medication, triggering relapse, while the early phases of manic episodes can feel so energizing that patients stop medication, ushering in full-blown mania and the altered self-perception that can lead to destructive behaviors. Another major goal of therapy is to understand one’s mood patterns so as to minimize both the frequency and intensity of mood cycling.