I'M THINKING ABOUT GOING TO THERAPY. DOES THAT MEAN I'M "CRAZY"? 

 

That's highly unlikely and you are not alone with these worries! We sometimes do not realize that we all struggle to meet expectations of "the norm" in some way or another. Ultimately, going to therapy helps you to develop personal growth, strengthen your relationships, and better your situation. Therapy provides you with a nonjudgmental and skilled professional who can help you find the solutions that fit for you.

 

 

ARE YOUR SERVICES CONFIDENTIAL?

 

I adhere to strict ethical codes on confidentiality and other professional standards of the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and the American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy (AAMFT). Your identifying information and what we talk about will be kept private. In the first session, I discuss my Terms of Service, a consent form that explains the parameters of confidentiality.

 

 

WHAT IF MY PARTNER ISN'T INTERESTED IN COUPLES THERAPY?

 

Taking the step to come to therapy as a couple can pose these challenges which might feel discouraging. However, I work with you to explore the possibilities of getting you the support you need individually and/or as a couple. Please contact me so that we can determine possible next steps.

 

 

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PSYCHOTHERAPIST, PSYCHOLOGIST, AND PSYCHIATRIST?

 

Although all are qualified to provide psychotherapy, what largely separates these mental health professionals is the training of the therapist and their specialization in the services provided. These professionals are expected to be affiliated with a professional organization that regulates their profession.

 

Psychotherapists have a master’s degree in psychotherapy, counselling or psychology. They have advanced training in psychotherapy and specialize in counselling individuals, couples or families. Psychotherapy is regulated by the newly formed College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) based on the Psychotherapy Act, 2007, proclaimed in April 2015. The Psychotherapy Act, 2007 legislates that to practice psychotherapy in Ontario and use the professional title "Psychotherapist", one must be a member of CRPO. Given the recent induction of the College, many therapists who specialize in psychotherapy are in the process of registering with the College as a "Registered Psychotherapist" or "Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)".

 

Psychologists specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health issues. They have a doctorate (PhD) in psychology and are trained to perform psychological tests to assess for emotional, behavioural and neuropsychological problems. Psychologists have advanced training in psychotherapy for treating these conditions and other presenting concerns. Psychologists are members of the College of Psychologists of Ontario. 

 

Psychiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating emotional and behavioural problems and mental conditions. Similar to a physician, they have a degree in medicine and can prescribe medication, while also providing psychotherapy for related conditions. They are licensed by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario.