I've never talked to someone. Aren't people who go to therapy considered weak?
There is a common misconception that asking for help or going to therapy is a sign of weakness, but in reality, it's quite the opposite. Seeking treatment is a courageous step toward self-care and personal growth. It takes strength to acknowledge when you're struggling and to take action to improve your mental health.
Therapy isn't just for people going through crises—it's for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, work through challenges, or have a safe space to explore their thoughts and feelings. People from all walks of life, including those who are strong, prosperous, and resilient, seek therapy to improve their mental and emotional well-being.
It's important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. We don't consider people weak for seeing a doctor for a bodily injury—seeking support for emotional health is no different. Therapy is about building resilience, finding balance, and learning tools to navigate life's challenges healthfully.
If you've never spoken to someone before, know that it's a space free from judgment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions in a supportive environment. Taking that first step is often the hardest but also the most empowering.
What's the difference between talking to someone on your team or my best friend or family member?
Why shouldn't I just take medication?
The difference is between someone who can do something and someone who has the training and experience to do that same thing professionally. At the core, therapists offer a therapeutic space, something that most friends or family cannot provide, as that space's very nature is clinical. Your friend shouldn't be your therapist, and your therapist shouldn't be your friend. This is what makes the therapeutic relationship special. The therapeutic relationship alone determines almost all success outcomes during the session.
Medication can effectively manage certain symptoms, especially for conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar or ADHD. However, it often addresses symptoms rather than the root causes of emotional or psychological distress. On the other hand, therapy helps you work through underlying issues, develop coping strategies, and gain a deeper understanding of your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
While medication can provide relief, therapy offers long-term benefits by equipping you with tools to manage life's challenges more effectively. Depending on your individual needs, a combination of therapy and medication may be the best approach in some cases.
Therapy also focuses on personal growth, helping you build resilience, improve relationships, and enhance your overall well-being. Unlike medication, which often requires ongoing use, therapy can provide lasting change even after the sessions have ended. It’s about more than symptom relief—it’s about empowering you to take control of your life meaningfully and meaningfully.
If you're considering whether therapy, medication, or a combination of both is right for you, it's always best to have an open discussion with a own healthcare provider to help explore your options.
What can I expect from counselling sessions?
FAQS (COUNSELLING and PSYCHOTHERAPY)
Every person’s journey in counseling is unique because everyone brings different concerns, challenges, and goals. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, trauma, or personal growth, I tailor each session to meet your specific needs. The approach we take will depend on what feels right for you, and we’ll work together to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where you feel heard and understood.
Our goal is to help you navigate your challenges and guide you toward meaningful progress. Whether that involves talk therapy, mindfulness, or other therapeutic techniques, our path is shaped by our individual experiences and what resonates with us. As your needs evolve, so will our approach, ensuring that you receive the care and support most helpful to you at every step of the process.
No two sessions are exactly the same, and your therapy will always be designed with your unique goals in mind.
How long will it take?
Unfortunately, this is not possible to say in a general FAQs page. Everyone’s circumstances are unique to them and the length of time counseling can take to allow you to accomplish your goals depends on your desire for personal development, your commitment, and the factors that are driving you to seek counseling in the first place.
I want to get the most out of my sessions. What should I do?
We are so glad you're dedicated to making the most of your therapy sessions. Your active participation and commitment are key to your growth and success. Here are a few ways you can maximize your experience:
1. Prepare beforehand by reflecting on your thoughts and writing down any questions or concerns.
2. Be open and honest to create a safe space for addressing your concerns.
3. Set specific goals for therapy to focus your sessions.
4. Take notes during sessions and reflect on them afterward.
5. Practice what you learn between sessions to accelerate your progress.
6. Be patient with yourself, as personal growth takes time.
By staying engaged and taking an active role in your therapy, you can see lasting, meaningful change. We're here to support you every step of the way!
Which insurance companies do you direct bill?
We work with a wide range of major insurance providers to help ensure you can access the support you need. Here are some of the key insurance companies we collaborate with:
Medavie Bluecross
Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC)
Canada Life
Manulife
ClaimSecure
iA Financial Group
Desjardins Insurance
Johnson
We also accept coverage from several participating insurers, including:
Johnston Group
Equitable Life
The Public Service Health Care Plan
Beneva
Alberta Blue Cross
BPA (Benefit Plan Administrators)
Green Shield Canada
Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan
CINUP
Coughlin & Associates
Cowan Insurance Group
D.A. Townley
First Canadian Insurance Corporation
GMS (Group Medical Services)
GroupHEALTH
GroupSource
Manion
Maximum Benefit
MDM Insurance Services Inc.
People Corporation
RWAM Insurance Administrators
Simply Benefits
Union Benefits
UV Insurance
We cannot direct bill Sunlife