Photo of Joanne Kirzner, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Joanne Kirzner, MSW, RSW
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5M  (Online Only)
I am a warm, engaging, insightful and eclectic psychotherapist with a keen interest in people and the process of change. I have built my career in the mental health system, working with diverse populations who present with anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, family of origin issues, bi-polar disorder, etc. I also have a background in addiction work and work from both a harm-reduction and abstinence based model. We start the therapy process where you are. Some of the modalities I employ are CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy and narrative therapy.
I am a warm, engaging, insightful and eclectic psychotherapist with a keen interest in people and the process of change. I have built my career in the mental health system, working with diverse populations who present with anxiety, depression, OCD, relationship issues, trauma, family of origin issues, bi-polar disorder, etc. I also have a background in addiction work and work from both a harm-reduction and abstinence based model. We start the therapy process where you are. Some of the modalities I employ are CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness, psychodynamic therapy and narrative therapy.
(289) 312-0864 View (289) 312-0864
Photo of Sahar Mozafari, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Sahar Mozafari
Registered Psychotherapist, HBsc, MA, RP
Verified Verified
North York, ON M3B
My areas of expertise are working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, Obsessive-compulsive spectrum, phobia, and trauma-related disorders.
As a psychotherapist, I provide comprehensive interventions rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I specialize in helping individuals transform negative thought patterns, develop practical coping strategies, and make positive behavioral changes. By incorporating elements of DBT, which emphasizes emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as MBCT, which promotes mindfulness and self-compassion, I offer a holistic approach to addressing various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorder
My areas of expertise are working with adults struggling with anxiety, depression, Obsessive-compulsive spectrum, phobia, and trauma-related disorders.
As a psychotherapist, I provide comprehensive interventions rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). I specialize in helping individuals transform negative thought patterns, develop practical coping strategies, and make positive behavioral changes. By incorporating elements of DBT, which emphasizes emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness, as well as MBCT, which promotes mindfulness and self-compassion, I offer a holistic approach to addressing various mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and eating disorder
(289) 807-4839 View (289) 807-4839
Photo of Own Your Space Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Own Your Space Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Aurora, ON L4G
Do you ever wonder why you keep on doing the things that you do? Your habits or rituals on a daily basis are sometimes hard to decipher or break. The shame, guilt, anger, Sadness, anxiety or depression that we may feel from repeatedly performing the same actions and thoughts, over and over again, may wear you down. By living more in the moment, and being more mindful of your daily activities, your true self will begin to see the workings of your ego. Your egoic mind is built on early childhood defenses and sub personalities that forms certain addictions and inefficient habits. It is important to be curious about your discomfort.
Do you ever wonder why you keep on doing the things that you do? Your habits or rituals on a daily basis are sometimes hard to decipher or break. The shame, guilt, anger, Sadness, anxiety or depression that we may feel from repeatedly performing the same actions and thoughts, over and over again, may wear you down. By living more in the moment, and being more mindful of your daily activities, your true self will begin to see the workings of your ego. Your egoic mind is built on early childhood defenses and sub personalities that forms certain addictions and inefficient habits. It is important to be curious about your discomfort.
(365) 655-6339 View (365) 655-6339
Photo of Lori Dennis, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Lori Dennis
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5M
Talk therapy is designed to heal your emotional wounds. With the power of talk therapy, I can help you address and resolve: low self esteem; depression; anxiety; trauma; loss; loneliness; anger; forgiveness; relationship difficulties; parenting challenges; family struggles and more. The secret to emotional healing is to increase awareness of your thoughts, feelings and patterns of behavior and to find the courage to face and move past your pain. Only then can you discover a state of being that is richer, fuller and more deeply satisfying.
Talk therapy is designed to heal your emotional wounds. With the power of talk therapy, I can help you address and resolve: low self esteem; depression; anxiety; trauma; loss; loneliness; anger; forgiveness; relationship difficulties; parenting challenges; family struggles and more. The secret to emotional healing is to increase awareness of your thoughts, feelings and patterns of behavior and to find the courage to face and move past your pain. Only then can you discover a state of being that is richer, fuller and more deeply satisfying.
(416) 709-8117 View (416) 709-8117
Photo of Carol L McDowell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ontario
Carol L McDowell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
I have found these techniques work well for addiction but in many other circumstances including disordered eating, depression, and anxiety.
When I was young, I wanted to be a writer. I went into journalism and that’s where I figured out why I was so obsessed with stories. True stories heal us. I have spent the last 30 years, both personally and professionally, in the field of addiction. I became increasingly sad as I witnessed the suffering that goes along with substance abuse and behavioural addictions. I learned as a volunteer and mentor that helping people uncover their true story also creates healing. So, I went to Yorkville University and obtained a master’s degree in counselling psychology.
I have found these techniques work well for addiction but in many other circumstances including disordered eating, depression, and anxiety.
When I was young, I wanted to be a writer. I went into journalism and that’s where I figured out why I was so obsessed with stories. True stories heal us. I have spent the last 30 years, both personally and professionally, in the field of addiction. I became increasingly sad as I witnessed the suffering that goes along with substance abuse and behavioural addictions. I learned as a volunteer and mentor that helping people uncover their true story also creates healing. So, I went to Yorkville University and obtained a master’s degree in counselling psychology.
(249) 700-5478 View (249) 700-5478
Photo of Anxiety Solutions, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Anxiety Solutions
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Vaughan, ON L6A
He is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, one of the most effective therapies for anxiety, depression and trauma.
Are you currently facing any emotional difficulties? Are you searching for answers to certain life related issues? Anxiety Solutions can help! We use effective and evidence informed therapeutic approaches and we are committed to help you achieve your goals and aspirations in the most supportive, respectful and realistic way. Our work together will open doors to new possibilities and perspectives in your life. We will look for behaviours or thinking patterns that have prevented you from living the life you want. During our counselling sessions you can discover new ways to relax, regain your balance and recharge your energy resources.
He is certified in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, one of the most effective therapies for anxiety, depression and trauma.
Are you currently facing any emotional difficulties? Are you searching for answers to certain life related issues? Anxiety Solutions can help! We use effective and evidence informed therapeutic approaches and we are committed to help you achieve your goals and aspirations in the most supportive, respectful and realistic way. Our work together will open doors to new possibilities and perspectives in your life. We will look for behaviours or thinking patterns that have prevented you from living the life you want. During our counselling sessions you can discover new ways to relax, regain your balance and recharge your energy resources.
(289) 401-5592 View (289) 401-5592
Photo of Sherwood Psychology, Psychologist in Ontario
Sherwood Psychology
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Y
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Need help navigating relationships or family conflict? Is work wearing you down and burning you out? Is OCD, ADHD, Autism or past difficult experiences getting in your way? Are you worried about your child or teen's anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, social skills or learning challenges?
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious or depressed? Need help navigating relationships or family conflict? Is work wearing you down and burning you out? Is OCD, ADHD, Autism or past difficult experiences getting in your way? Are you worried about your child or teen's anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, social skills or learning challenges?
(343) 321-1136 View (343) 321-1136
Photo of Natasha Saini, Counsellor in Ontario
Natasha Saini
Counsellor, MCP, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4K
I have 8 years of experience working with young professionals, adults, and youth experiencing mental health challenges in areas of anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma.
Navigating the challenges and stressors in our lives can difficult even in the best of times. When you are feeling overwhelmed even the smallest “bumps in the road” can feel like an unmovable mountain. Having a place to talk about those challenges can be incredibly meaningful and it can be the start to developing a healthier relationship with yourself. Therapy provides clients with the opportunity to explore their feelings and emotions and the chance to (re)discover that we are all meant for belonging, unconditional love, and significance.
I have 8 years of experience working with young professionals, adults, and youth experiencing mental health challenges in areas of anxiety, depression, anger, and trauma.
Navigating the challenges and stressors in our lives can difficult even in the best of times. When you are feeling overwhelmed even the smallest “bumps in the road” can feel like an unmovable mountain. Having a place to talk about those challenges can be incredibly meaningful and it can be the start to developing a healthier relationship with yourself. Therapy provides clients with the opportunity to explore their feelings and emotions and the chance to (re)discover that we are all meant for belonging, unconditional love, and significance.
(647) 952-6121 View (647) 952-6121
Photo of Cecilia Taiana, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Cecilia Taiana
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1M
I am a Registered Psychotherapist located in Ottawa providing psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to individuals, couples, and families. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling, emotional and functional adjustments, PTSD, stress management, couples counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to help them attain personal growth. Typically, you can expect to discuss with me the events currently happening in your life and your personal history relevant to your concerns.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist located in Ottawa providing psychodynamic psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to individuals, couples, and families. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, providing services that span from therapy for depression and anxiety to grief counseling, emotional and functional adjustments, PTSD, stress management, couples counseling and beyond. I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each of my clients' individual needs to help them attain personal growth. Typically, you can expect to discuss with me the events currently happening in your life and your personal history relevant to your concerns.
(855) 727-9659 View (855) 727-9659
Photo of The Counselling Centre, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
The Counselling Centre
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Thornhill, ON L4J
My clinic offers therapy for issues related to mental health (anxiety, depression, anger, etc.
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
My clinic offers therapy for issues related to mental health (anxiety, depression, anger, etc.
Making the first step and reaching out to professionals who can help may be an overwhelming experience. But if you find the right fit for you, it is well worth it and will lead to amazing results. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger issues, relationships, self-esteem, parenting, or just feel you need to explore yourself to make a change, you've come to right place. I am a therapist and counselor with an MSW from Wilfred Laurier University and M. Ed from Saint Leo University with special training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for mental health challenges at the University of Toronto (OISE).
(647) 699-3128 View (647) 699-3128
Photo of Jen Nicholson, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Jen Nicholson, MSW RSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, ON P1H
Counselling / Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents and Couples. Scope of practice includes mental health struggles (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder); relationship Issues; addictions / substance abuse; grief and loss; trauma informed work including counselling for male and male identified survivors of sexual abuse. EMDR therapy / treatment available.
Counselling / Psychotherapy for Adults, Adolescents and Couples. Scope of practice includes mental health struggles (anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder); relationship Issues; addictions / substance abuse; grief and loss; trauma informed work including counselling for male and male identified survivors of sexual abuse. EMDR therapy / treatment available.
(705) 243-8390 View (705) 243-8390
Photo of Trudi Anne Wright, Registered Psychotherapist in Ontario
Trudi Anne Wright
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, OT Reg
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K0H
I have worked extensively with clients with mental health concerns throughout my career, most recently with Veterans and others suffering from PTSD, depression and anxiety.
Do you suffer from trauma? Are you overwhelmed, anxious or distracted? Are you trying to work through grief? Are you having difficulties at home, at work, or in your interpersonal relationships? Are the stressors of daily life becoming obstacles that you can't seem to overcome? You are not alone, and I am here to help. My dual training of a Master's Degree in Psychotherapy and years of experience as an Occupational Therapist working in mental health has provided me with a unique perspective to help you reach your goals. We can work together to help you move through your journey to improved health and well-being.
I have worked extensively with clients with mental health concerns throughout my career, most recently with Veterans and others suffering from PTSD, depression and anxiety.
Do you suffer from trauma? Are you overwhelmed, anxious or distracted? Are you trying to work through grief? Are you having difficulties at home, at work, or in your interpersonal relationships? Are the stressors of daily life becoming obstacles that you can't seem to overcome? You are not alone, and I am here to help. My dual training of a Master's Degree in Psychotherapy and years of experience as an Occupational Therapist working in mental health has provided me with a unique perspective to help you reach your goals. We can work together to help you move through your journey to improved health and well-being.
(613) 703-6665 View (613) 703-6665
Photo of Angie Holstein - Shanti Psychotherapy Clinic in Ontario
Angie Holstein - Shanti Psychotherapy Clinic
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4J
With over twenty years in mental health services, I am passionate about helping you to overcome the chalIenges you face and enhance your existing strengths. It is not uncommon during periods of life to feel overwhelmed, inadequate and anxious. As both a therapist and clinic owner of my group practice Shanti Psychotherapy, I specialize in working with Teenagers, Adults, Families, Trauma and Mental Health issues such as depression and anxiety. All sessions foster a safe and non-judgmental environment that focus on your individual needs. No single approach is right for everyone. I welcome the opportunity to start a conversation!
With over twenty years in mental health services, I am passionate about helping you to overcome the chalIenges you face and enhance your existing strengths. It is not uncommon during periods of life to feel overwhelmed, inadequate and anxious. As both a therapist and clinic owner of my group practice Shanti Psychotherapy, I specialize in working with Teenagers, Adults, Families, Trauma and Mental Health issues such as depression and anxiety. All sessions foster a safe and non-judgmental environment that focus on your individual needs. No single approach is right for everyone. I welcome the opportunity to start a conversation!
(647) 952-9648 View (647) 952-9648
Photo of Lesley Hannell (Psychologist) Supervision And Counselling, Psychologist in Ontario
Lesley Hannell (Psychologist) Supervision And Counselling
Psychologist, CPsych
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ancaster, ON L9G
We provide assistance with the following areas: Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Work Stress, Trauma, Communication, Parenting, Conflict Resolution, Blended Families, Separation, Divorce, Self-esteem, Grief & Loss, Stress Management.
Counselling for Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. Assessment & Diagnosis. Emotional challenges can affect any individual, couple or family. Finding a healthy way to manage can be difficult. It's common to feel overwhelmed. We provide a safe place, professional support, and the tools to help. Bringing Balance to Mind, Body & Spirit. Now available, ongoing supervision for clinicians in group or individual format. 45 years of clinical experience and training in many modalities, under many well known teachers, brings a depth that incorporates East and West, spiritual and energetic aspects of wellness and healing.
We provide assistance with the following areas: Relationships, Anxiety, Depression, Work Stress, Trauma, Communication, Parenting, Conflict Resolution, Blended Families, Separation, Divorce, Self-esteem, Grief & Loss, Stress Management.
Counselling for Adolescents, Adults, Couples and Families. Assessment & Diagnosis. Emotional challenges can affect any individual, couple or family. Finding a healthy way to manage can be difficult. It's common to feel overwhelmed. We provide a safe place, professional support, and the tools to help. Bringing Balance to Mind, Body & Spirit. Now available, ongoing supervision for clinicians in group or individual format. 45 years of clinical experience and training in many modalities, under many well known teachers, brings a depth that incorporates East and West, spiritual and energetic aspects of wellness and healing.
(289) 206-6505 View (289) 206-6505
Photo of Dr. Naomi Carpenter - Carpenter Psychology, Psychologist in Ontario
Dr. Naomi Carpenter - Carpenter Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y  (Online Only)
I am the Clinic Director of Carpenter Psychology & Clinical Psychologist providing individual psychotherapy to adults, clinical supervision and consultation services. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy for adults dealing with a wide range of concerns including symptoms of anxiety (e.g. social, general, panic), self-criticisms, depression, traumatic events, and difficult life transitions (e.g. school, relationships). My clinical training spans various settings including hospitals, private practice, and community mental health centres. In addition, I work as a Consultant at the CMHA - Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program.
I am the Clinic Director of Carpenter Psychology & Clinical Psychologist providing individual psychotherapy to adults, clinical supervision and consultation services. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy for adults dealing with a wide range of concerns including symptoms of anxiety (e.g. social, general, panic), self-criticisms, depression, traumatic events, and difficult life transitions (e.g. school, relationships). My clinical training spans various settings including hospitals, private practice, and community mental health centres. In addition, I work as a Consultant at the CMHA - Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program.
(289) 212-7936 View (289) 212-7936
Photo of Yukimi Henry, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Yukimi Henry
Registered Social Worker, BA, LLB, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M6H
Supports for individuals and couples are available for a wide array of issues including: * Relationships * Family Conflict * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Workplace Stress * Substance Use.
My counselling practice is about supporting growth, achieving positive change and overcoming adversity with compassion and integrity. An effective therapeutic relationship can help clarify the nature of struggles you are facing and most importantly, foster your strengths and skills to help you achieve your goals. I would value the opportunity to provide you with responsive, evidenced-based supports in your process of growth.
Supports for individuals and couples are available for a wide array of issues including: * Relationships * Family Conflict * Anxiety/Depression * Trauma * Workplace Stress * Substance Use.
My counselling practice is about supporting growth, achieving positive change and overcoming adversity with compassion and integrity. An effective therapeutic relationship can help clarify the nature of struggles you are facing and most importantly, foster your strengths and skills to help you achieve your goals. I would value the opportunity to provide you with responsive, evidenced-based supports in your process of growth.
(647) 952-5971 View (647) 952-5971
Photo of Tijana Pesic, Registered Social Worker in Ontario
Tijana Pesic
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Have you been feeling overwhelmed & stressed? Experiencing difficulty in your relationships, school or work? Are you struggling with your emotions or relationship concerns ? Are you a parent with a child experiencing behavioural issues? Are you or your child struggling with thoughts of depression, self-harm & suicide? Do you have low self esteem? You have come to the right place! We would be honoured to support you. Whether it be helping to process events, providing support or learning different coping skills through evidence-based interventions, myself & the team at CBT Wellness can help you!
Have you been feeling overwhelmed & stressed? Experiencing difficulty in your relationships, school or work? Are you struggling with your emotions or relationship concerns ? Are you a parent with a child experiencing behavioural issues? Are you or your child struggling with thoughts of depression, self-harm & suicide? Do you have low self esteem? You have come to the right place! We would be honoured to support you. Whether it be helping to process events, providing support or learning different coping skills through evidence-based interventions, myself & the team at CBT Wellness can help you!
(289) 723-2130 View (289) 723-2130
Photo of Carley Rawes Centre in Ontario
Carley Rawes Centre
MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W  (Online Only)
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
Feeling like something isn't right in your life? Are you, or is someone you love in crisis? Are you consumed by worry, overwhelmed, unable to cope, exhausted, struggling at school, work or a relationship? Depression, anxiety anger or addictions rob you of joy, make you feel numb, isolated and that life is darker and far more challenging than it should be? We help people and families just like you to find hope. Internal Family Systems, EMDR and cognitive behavioural therapy are some of our approaches. Carley was my young, talented, vibrant, beautiful cousin, and it is in her memory that this centre was founded; that's her picture.
(226) 641-6805 View (226) 641-6805
Photo of Dr. Sheila Tervit, Psychologist in Ontario
Dr. Sheila Tervit
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
My areas of specialty include working with individuals who may be experiencing low mood (depression) or anxiety (i.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
My areas of specialty include working with individuals who may be experiencing low mood (depression) or anxiety (i.
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile to decide if I am the right psychologist for you. I strive to put people at ease as they take the important step of seeking therapy. My goal is to empower individuals to face challenges and make lasting changes in their lives by building their coping skills and strategies. I am experienced in a variety of evidenced-based treatments and utilize a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach with individuals that incorporates components of interpersonal and acceptance & commitment therapies. When working with couples, I emphasize an Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) approach.
(289) 271-1967 View (289) 271-1967
Photo of Devina Daya, Psychologist in Ontario
Devina Daya
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4R
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety (e.g social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, health anxiety, phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder and related disorders (e.g. body dysmorphia, trichotillomania), bipolar disorder, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, grief and loss, acculturation stress and difficult life transitions. I work towards helping you cope with difficult thoughts, intense emotions and unhelpful behaviours, along with strengthening your interpersonal functioning. My approaches include cognitive, behavioural, mindfulness, interpersonal and attachment-focused therapies.
My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety (e.g social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, health anxiety, phobias), obsessive-compulsive disorder and related disorders (e.g. body dysmorphia, trichotillomania), bipolar disorder, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties, grief and loss, acculturation stress and difficult life transitions. I work towards helping you cope with difficult thoughts, intense emotions and unhelpful behaviours, along with strengthening your interpersonal functioning. My approaches include cognitive, behavioural, mindfulness, interpersonal and attachment-focused therapies.
(437) 747-8713 View (437) 747-8713

See more therapy options for Ontario

Depression Counsellors

What is the goal of therapy for depression?

Therapy for depression has several major goals. One is to relieve the mental pain of depression, which distorts feeling and thinking so that sufferers cannot see beyond their current state of mind or envision feeling better. Another is to give people the mental tools to recognise and correct the kinds of distorted thinking that turn a problem into a catastrophe and lead to despair. Therapy also teaches people how to process negative emotions in constructive ways, so they have more control over their own emotional reactivity. And it helps people regain the ability to see themselves positively, the motivation to do things, and the capacity for pleasure.

What happens in therapy for depression?

Perhaps most important, no matter the type of therapy, patients form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Patients learn to identify and to challenge their own erroneous beliefs and thoughts that amplify the effects of negative experiences. They learn to identify situations in which they are especially vulnerable. And they learn new patterns of thinking and behaving. They may be given “homework” assignments in which they practice their developing skills. In addition, good therapists regularly monitor patients to assess whether and how much the condition is improving.

What therapy types help with depression?

Several types of short-term therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps clients challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, learn new behavioral strategies, and curb reactivity to distressing situations. Behavioural activation (BA) is a form of therapy often used in conjunction with CBT; it focuses on engagement in rewarding activity as a pathway to changing negative feelings and disturbed mood. Another widely used approach is interpersonal therapy (IPT), which targets the social difficulties that both give rise to and get exacerbated by depression. Therapists may combine approaches as needed.

Can therapy for depression be done online?

Studies have found that online therapy can be highly effective for treating depression, although it may be more challenging to build a good therapist-patient alliance on screen than in person—at least at first. However, online therapy can offer considerable advantages. Accessibility and convenience are tops among them. Some people actually find it easier to talk about problems online than in person. While online therapy typically limits visibility of facial expression and body gestures that give important nonverbal cues to a patient’s state of mind, it can give therapists a glimpse into a patient’s world and life, providing information that can be highly useful in guiding therapy.

How effective is therapy for depression?

Many studies show that therapy is highly effective provided that patients complete the prescribed course of therapy, commonly 16 to 20 sessions. Over the long term, it is more effective than medication and the effects are more enduring. As a result, psychotherapy has the power not just to relieve current suffering but to prevent future episodes of the disorder. Therapy reverses the dysfunction in neural circuitry that disposes individuals to a negative view of themselves, the world, and their future and they acquire coping techniques, problem-solving skills, and understanding of their own vulnerabilities that are useful over the course of a lifetime.