Approach to Therapy in Ontario

Our therapists recognize that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to therapy and mental health support. Using clinical judgement, expertise and collaboration, the client and clinician work together to create a comprehensive treatment plan to reach client identified goals. Mental health professionals use talk therapy and different forms of therapy in therapy sessions to support individuals in their mental health care. The type of therapy and approach by the therapist may use more than one modality.

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Types of Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Exploring the connection between how our thoughts are connected to our feelings and behaviours, this therapy uses an analytical approach to change the way we think in order to change how we feel. The purpose of CBT is to help the client identify problem thinking patterns that occur automatically and may have a negative impact on their day to day life. CBT often involves activities during and/or between sessions to improve the a client’s ability to notice particular thought patterns and emotions throughout their day. CBT has been heavily researched and is used to treat anxiety, depression and a variety of other symptoms.

Emotion Focused Family Therapy

Rooted in interpersonal neurobiology, EFFT works to support caregivers increase their capacity to support their loved ones through mental health recovery. Recognizing the strong neuro-biological connection between parents and children (of any age) EFFT aims to help caregivers build tools and skills to more confidently use validation, emotion and behaviour coaching to support people with emotional dysregulation. More information on EFFT can be found by clicking here

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (also known as ART) is a new, evidence informed modality that uses rapid eye movements, similar to the REM cycle of sleep to help clients process strong emotions and traumatic experiences. ART is often used for trauma, phobias, anxiety, insomnia, grief and many other symptoms. Most clients identify significant reduction of symptoms quickly. This therapy is currently available with the Clinic Director.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

This evidence informed therapy is rooted in building coping skills through understanding the concept of opposing truths. DBT teaches concepts such as mindfulness, distress tolerance skills, interpersonal effectiveness and emotional regulation. These skills help clients improve distress tolerance and reduce symptoms.

Motivational Interviewing

Empowering an individual to make positive changes is the focus of this modality. A therapist will support you in resolving insecurities and internal ambivalent feelings as you work towards achieving a goal important to you. This is a client-centered approach to communication that is used to strengthen a person’s own motivation and commitment to change. The approach is based on the idea that people are more likely to change when they feel that the decision to change is coming from within themselves, rather than being imposed on them by others.

The goal of motivational interviewing is to help individuals explore and resolve their barriers about making a change. Your therapist will use open-ended questions, reflective listening, and empathy to create a safe and supportive environment to explore your reasons for change and address any hurdles that may be preventing you from taking action.

By helping clients explore their own reasons for change and addressing any concerns they may have, motivational interviewing can help them to build the confidence and motivation needed to make lasting changes in their lives.