Therapists in East Garafraxa, ON
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Check out counsellors located nearby or offering teletherapy in Ontario below.More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Ann Merton - WindHorse Psychology, MA, CPsych, Assoc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ef82e92-ca8b-4aa7-878f-438c4358522a/1/320x400.jpeg)
At WindHorse Psychology, our experienced clinicians provide caring and confidential psychological assessment & treatment services for children, teens, & adults. We help with a wide range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, illness, stress, parenting, workplace injury (WSIB), and informed care for First Responders. Treatment approaches include CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, & other modalities. Clinicians available also include Reg. Psychotherapists, MSW, RN, & a Wellness Coach (personalised nutrition/fitness plans). Psychoeducational Assessments are currently available.
At WindHorse Psychology, our experienced clinicians provide caring and confidential psychological assessment & treatment services for children, teens, & adults. We help with a wide range of difficulties such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief/loss, trauma, illness, stress, parenting, workplace injury (WSIB), and informed care for First Responders. Treatment approaches include CBT, CPT, DBT, EMDR, & other modalities. Clinicians available also include Reg. Psychotherapists, MSW, RN, & a Wellness Coach (personalised nutrition/fitness plans). Psychoeducational Assessments are currently available.
![Photo of Ann Merton, MEd, DTS, MA, CPsych, Assoc, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/109f3ab3-5fa3-48d4-9c39-4b65b86366d0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Merton
Psychological Associate, MEd, DTS, MA, CPsych, Assoc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orangeville, ON L9W
I am registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in Clinical and School Psychology for children, teens and adults. I approach my work from a holistic perspective that includes care for body, mind, and spirit. This holistic approach to psychological treatment works cooperatively with medical, naturopathic and alternative treatment modalities to promote wellness. Because I work with people from around the province of Ontario, my treatment sessions are usually provided via secure videoconferencing. This means no travel time & you can do the session from your most comfortable private place with a strong wifi connection.
I am registered with the College of Psychologists of Ontario in Clinical and School Psychology for children, teens and adults. I approach my work from a holistic perspective that includes care for body, mind, and spirit. This holistic approach to psychological treatment works cooperatively with medical, naturopathic and alternative treatment modalities to promote wellness. Because I work with people from around the province of Ontario, my treatment sessions are usually provided via secure videoconferencing. This means no travel time & you can do the session from your most comfortable private place with a strong wifi connection.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Aidan Parchelo, MACP, ASD-IP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1247dc8a-a953-416e-9e86-9adf16355487/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aidan Parchelo
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, ASD-IP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5T
I am also a certified ASD-Informed Professional, and support concerns relating to autism & high sensitivity, burnout & boundary-setting, ADHD, and giftedness.
At the end of the day, therapy is about being listened to, being heard. There may be difficult experiences in your life that you are carrying alone right now. I can assure you, it doesn’t have to be that way. My job as therapist is to make it easy to sit with and explore the difficult stuff. I do this by removing many of the barriers that ever made it hard: by listening attentively without judgement, meeting you wherever you’re at, and showing up with patience, curiosity, and compassion. In this, I support clients to build new habits and change their relationship with themselves and others for the better.
I am also a certified ASD-Informed Professional, and support concerns relating to autism & high sensitivity, burnout & boundary-setting, ADHD, and giftedness.
At the end of the day, therapy is about being listened to, being heard. There may be difficult experiences in your life that you are carrying alone right now. I can assure you, it doesn’t have to be that way. My job as therapist is to make it easy to sit with and explore the difficult stuff. I do this by removing many of the barriers that ever made it hard: by listening attentively without judgement, meeting you wherever you’re at, and showing up with patience, curiosity, and compassion. In this, I support clients to build new habits and change their relationship with themselves and others for the better.
![Photo of Larissa Zoubareva, RP, MMT, MTA, FAMI, NMT, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42cde6a6-8c2c-475e-8323-4d26aee7775d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Larissa Zoubareva
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MMT, MTA, FAMI, NMT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5A
I also work with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism.
People who may not be able to experience other kinds of psychotherapies are often more open to the benefits of music therapy. You can develop love for life through creative music making, because music plays incredible role in human well-being. I provide a person-centred and evidence-based music therapy/psychotherapy, using a heart-centred model as a representative of the humanistic approach, and a music-centred model as a professional musician, which gives me a wide range of musical and verbal choices for implementing activities and allows me to be flexible in selecting methods and techniques.
I also work with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism.
People who may not be able to experience other kinds of psychotherapies are often more open to the benefits of music therapy. You can develop love for life through creative music making, because music plays incredible role in human well-being. I provide a person-centred and evidence-based music therapy/psychotherapy, using a heart-centred model as a representative of the humanistic approach, and a music-centred model as a professional musician, which gives me a wide range of musical and verbal choices for implementing activities and allows me to be flexible in selecting methods and techniques.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bef0e75-77e6-4527-90be-8764e2abe679/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Guelph, ON N1H (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.
![Photo of Corina Lee, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b97cb249-da1f-4b55-b97e-71f4066dfce7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you grappling with anxiety, self-doubt, anger, or frustration? Do you struggle with negative thoughts, toxic partners, or a lack of motivation? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or exhausted and are seeking greater self-understanding and emotional resilience. You are looking to build self-compassion, healthier relationships, and a more balanced life. You want to break free from negative cycles and live authentically, driven by a deep desire for healing and personal growth. You are open to exploring both your strengths and vulnerabilities.
Are you grappling with anxiety, self-doubt, anger, or frustration? Do you struggle with negative thoughts, toxic partners, or a lack of motivation? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or exhausted and are seeking greater self-understanding and emotional resilience. You are looking to build self-compassion, healthier relationships, and a more balanced life. You want to break free from negative cycles and live authentically, driven by a deep desire for healing and personal growth. You are open to exploring both your strengths and vulnerabilities.
![Photo of Sarah G Bickle, MPsy, RP, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30ca2177-606a-4106-a233-42d239d50b64/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah G Bickle
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M4Y (Online Only)
I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field. I primarily work with trauma and sexuality and am experienced with LGBTQ2IA+ and neurodivergent communities. My work in this field began with refugees abroad which led me to research treatment development for survivors of sexual trauma. My experience extends beyond these populations and I strive to stay open to the wisdom gained through working with a wide range of demographics and therapeutic approaches. Visit my website for more information!
I have over ten years of experience in the mental health field. I primarily work with trauma and sexuality and am experienced with LGBTQ2IA+ and neurodivergent communities. My work in this field began with refugees abroad which led me to research treatment development for survivors of sexual trauma. My experience extends beyond these populations and I strive to stay open to the wisdom gained through working with a wide range of demographics and therapeutic approaches. Visit my website for more information!
![Photo of Shawna Akerman, MEd , RPQ, ECE, BEd, FIS, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/713fff8b-9477-43cb-a90c-d2ab9d1bee69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shawna Akerman
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd , RPQ, ECE, BEd, FIS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North York, ON M2N
Is your family environment off balance? Is parenting more difficult than you imagined? Have you lost control of yourself or your relationships? Are you are looking for a different feeling or ready to make a change? It takes one conversation to start change. What is standing in your way of starting? Book now and explore the simple steps to feeling okay every day. Start the journey of self-discovery. If you are looking to RESET, start here and make yourself a priority. If not now, when? We focus on skills and strategies for making better choices for yourself with experience In ADHD, ASD, Neurotypical, Anxiety, Family Dynamics.
Is your family environment off balance? Is parenting more difficult than you imagined? Have you lost control of yourself or your relationships? Are you are looking for a different feeling or ready to make a change? It takes one conversation to start change. What is standing in your way of starting? Book now and explore the simple steps to feeling okay every day. Start the journey of self-discovery. If you are looking to RESET, start here and make yourself a priority. If not now, when? We focus on skills and strategies for making better choices for yourself with experience In ADHD, ASD, Neurotypical, Anxiety, Family Dynamics.
![Photo of Mai Ling Patel, MA, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c94666-40c1-4e76-9f16-55a6136e7928/3/320x400.jpeg)
You’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed and it causes you to overthink, "doom scroll", or lash out at others. The mere thought of work; seeing that person, or having that conversation seems too unbearable. When you get up the courage to do the ‘thing’, it feels like it never works out, leaving you feeling misunderstood, discouraged and stuck. You’re often told that you are “too much”. Over time, you’ve come to believe it, resent it and blame yourself. You spend so much time trying to be a version of yourself that is acceptable to others that at the end of the day you’re exhausted. And now you realize that it's time to make a change.
You’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed and it causes you to overthink, "doom scroll", or lash out at others. The mere thought of work; seeing that person, or having that conversation seems too unbearable. When you get up the courage to do the ‘thing’, it feels like it never works out, leaving you feeling misunderstood, discouraged and stuck. You’re often told that you are “too much”. Over time, you’ve come to believe it, resent it and blame yourself. You spend so much time trying to be a version of yourself that is acceptable to others that at the end of the day you’re exhausted. And now you realize that it's time to make a change.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49563062-c73a-4bcd-986a-bd846d59a22c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Strength Counselling Services
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M4Y (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.
![Photo of Allison Cordner - Speakeasy Counselling & Associates, MA, RCC, RTC, SEP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50623bf9-1dfc-4107-9b3e-a7cf98094b6b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Speakeasy Counselling & Associates
Counsellor, MA, RCC, RTC, SEP
Verified Verified
Hamilton, ON L8N (Online Only)
We are a team of clinicians that are trained to work with students, individuals, couples and families. That excel at helping you expand your emotional tolerance, reactions & communication skills. Too many of us suffer in silence with anxiety, low self-esteem, unprocessed trauma and anger. You are not alone and we are here to encourage you to let those experiences be felt in a safe & non-judgmental environment. We know how hard it can be for most people to do therapy & our goal is to make it engaging, insightful & rewarding. To be vulnerable means not having our deepest feelings and secrets shot down. We use an integrative approach.
We are a team of clinicians that are trained to work with students, individuals, couples and families. That excel at helping you expand your emotional tolerance, reactions & communication skills. Too many of us suffer in silence with anxiety, low self-esteem, unprocessed trauma and anger. You are not alone and we are here to encourage you to let those experiences be felt in a safe & non-judgmental environment. We know how hard it can be for most people to do therapy & our goal is to make it engaging, insightful & rewarding. To be vulnerable means not having our deepest feelings and secrets shot down. We use an integrative approach.
![Photo of Amanda Dewar - Strength Counselling Services, MEd, RCC, CCC, RSW, RP, Counsellor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/342e51e7-e4c3-4446-8a9f-6058c5aaec9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Krista Gatti - Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de8291b7-78e9-4f13-9423-ce19b5db5f7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Krista Gatti @ Psychotherapy for You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peterborough, ON K9H (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
![Photo of Street Therapy, MPsy, RP, (CRPO), CCC, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60b858ef-a412-4f36-a630-b966c4e87191/1/320x400.png)
Street Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MPsy, RP, (CRPO), CCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kitchener, ON N2H
Operating for 16+ years, Street Therapy is a group practice, providing mental health services for clients across the lifespan. Our practitioners come from diverse academic, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds, practicing within the neurodiversity and anti-oppressive frameworks. We strive to provide a safe space for clinicians and clients alike to explore and engage in collaborative, and respectful, psychotherapeutic relationships. Bernadette Street, clinical supervisor and director of Street Therapy, has over 15 years of experience working with children, youth and adults. Her expertise informs the work of our team.
Operating for 16+ years, Street Therapy is a group practice, providing mental health services for clients across the lifespan. Our practitioners come from diverse academic, religious, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds, practicing within the neurodiversity and anti-oppressive frameworks. We strive to provide a safe space for clinicians and clients alike to explore and engage in collaborative, and respectful, psychotherapeutic relationships. Bernadette Street, clinical supervisor and director of Street Therapy, has over 15 years of experience working with children, youth and adults. Her expertise informs the work of our team.
![Photo of Melania Eliza Lumezanu, MADS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01209a95-997e-4588-a04c-c96559afe094/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Trauma-Informed Therapist, Educator, and Mentor with over 19 years of experience, I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach rooted in education and empowerment. My goal is to guide you on your healing journey, helping you access your innate healing abilities and fostering your independence, growth, and well-being. Together, we will prioritize your unique needs, experiences, and goals, placing you at the centre of the therapeutic process.
As a Trauma-Informed Therapist, Educator, and Mentor with over 19 years of experience, I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach rooted in education and empowerment. My goal is to guide you on your healing journey, helping you access your innate healing abilities and fostering your independence, growth, and well-being. Together, we will prioritize your unique needs, experiences, and goals, placing you at the centre of the therapeutic process.
![Photo of Elena Polyanovsky - Real-Talk Psychotherapy, BA(hon), RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44fd7ef3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Real-Talk Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, BA(hon), RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Toronto, ON M5S
Stressed?? Anxious?? Depressed?? Are you struggling to find the right therapist? Feeling lost? All first sessions are FREE with no obligations. WHY? I am passionate about creating opportunities for healing centered around your unique needs! My personal philosophy is radical acceptance. I believe that most coping strategies (from perfectionism to addictions) actually enable survival to one's best ability. Reflect on how your personal coping methods enabled you to survive until this moment! I believe in honouring old patterns with awareness. We must recognize and accept what is holding us back in order to change it.
Stressed?? Anxious?? Depressed?? Are you struggling to find the right therapist? Feeling lost? All first sessions are FREE with no obligations. WHY? I am passionate about creating opportunities for healing centered around your unique needs! My personal philosophy is radical acceptance. I believe that most coping strategies (from perfectionism to addictions) actually enable survival to one's best ability. Reflect on how your personal coping methods enabled you to survive until this moment! I believe in honouring old patterns with awareness. We must recognize and accept what is holding us back in order to change it.
![Photo of Michael Holker, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7e3a1aa-521c-4a88-98cb-4feefff7ecf1/2/320x400.png)
Michael Holker
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North York, ON M2N (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with traits of ADHD/Neurodivergence and Giftedness and seeking effective strategies to regain control and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life? Do you struggle to escape self-criticism and self-judgements of not living up to your potential? Have you been stuck in cycles of anxiety and depression, unhelpful thoughts, or struggling with the complexities of life and now desire the tools and support to break free and progress toward your aspirations? We can learn to work on our thought patterns and process the complex emotions we experience in a supportive environment.
Are you struggling with traits of ADHD/Neurodivergence and Giftedness and seeking effective strategies to regain control and lead a more fulfilling and meaningful life? Do you struggle to escape self-criticism and self-judgements of not living up to your potential? Have you been stuck in cycles of anxiety and depression, unhelpful thoughts, or struggling with the complexities of life and now desire the tools and support to break free and progress toward your aspirations? We can learn to work on our thought patterns and process the complex emotions we experience in a supportive environment.
![Photo of Megan Piercy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ddcbb46-28c1-43d8-bda8-5cdeb45b6056/2/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling stuck in longstanding patterns that don't work well for you? Tired of the constant battle in your head? Overwhelmed with stress in relationships? Struggling to become a more authentic you? Feeling called to change, to become happy and free, to thrive? A holistic therapist, I guide you through those stuck places - emotional, mental, physical and spiritual - with counselling, hypnosis and energy work, to address both your conscious and unconscious selves for deep and lasting change. I offer you my depth, insight, clarity, intuition, problem-solving, compassion, connection, safety, humour and great respect for your uniqueness.
Feeling stuck in longstanding patterns that don't work well for you? Tired of the constant battle in your head? Overwhelmed with stress in relationships? Struggling to become a more authentic you? Feeling called to change, to become happy and free, to thrive? A holistic therapist, I guide you through those stuck places - emotional, mental, physical and spiritual - with counselling, hypnosis and energy work, to address both your conscious and unconscious selves for deep and lasting change. I offer you my depth, insight, clarity, intuition, problem-solving, compassion, connection, safety, humour and great respect for your uniqueness.
![Photo of Shauna Lynn Switzer, MCP, MA, CHyp, RP#6934, Registered Psychotherapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3db2f3a7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shauna Lynn Switzer
Registered Psychotherapist, MCP, MA, CHyp, RP#6934
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Georgetown, ON L7G
At times, many of us contend with emotions and suffering that are overwhelmingly painful, disheartening and difficult to bear, often as a result of unique stressors and events. I work with adults, adolescents, families and step-families using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy, and DBT/CBT within neuroscience and attachment frameworks. I encouraged clients to access inner strengths and free their capacity for growth. Whether you or a family member experience depression, anxiety, marital distress or difficulties with peers, you deserve support in a confidential, accepting, safe and caring environment.
At times, many of us contend with emotions and suffering that are overwhelmingly painful, disheartening and difficult to bear, often as a result of unique stressors and events. I work with adults, adolescents, families and step-families using Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy, and DBT/CBT within neuroscience and attachment frameworks. I encouraged clients to access inner strengths and free their capacity for growth. Whether you or a family member experience depression, anxiety, marital distress or difficulties with peers, you deserve support in a confidential, accepting, safe and caring environment.
![Photo of Paul T P Wong, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef7d01f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is willing to engage in self-reflection, explore the deeper existential issues related to his/her predicament, and discover the pathways of actualizing his/her potential and dream. Such a client can be a new college graduate struggling for a better understanding of her self-identity or a senior questioning his life's meaning. The issues I am best suited to addressing are both the dark sides of the human condition-such as depression, anxiety, anger, loss, suffering, and death-and the bright sides of personal growth and flourishing.
My ideal client is willing to engage in self-reflection, explore the deeper existential issues related to his/her predicament, and discover the pathways of actualizing his/her potential and dream. Such a client can be a new college graduate struggling for a better understanding of her self-identity or a senior questioning his life's meaning. The issues I am best suited to addressing are both the dark sides of the human condition-such as depression, anxiety, anger, loss, suffering, and death-and the bright sides of personal growth and flourishing.
Autism Counsellors
What is the most effective treatment for autism?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has come to be considered the standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder, and research has confirmed its effectiveness for many children. Therapists trained in ABA techniques work with children (and their parents) on developing social skills, communication and learning abilities, and everyday habits of hygiene and grooming. The clinician will tailor their program to the child’s particular need but the overarching goal will be to help them advance as far as possible toward independence based on their level of symptoms and decrease the need for additional special services. Families should seek a mental health professional specifically trained in ABA, and holding special certification in the technique, who has extensive experience not only with the approach but in using it with children with the same level of symptoms as the child who needs care.
How does ABA work?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) sessions, which typically focus on positive reinforcement, can be intensive, lasting two or more hours several times a week, and continuing for two years or more. Therapists can also be expected to ask parents to take an active role in reinforcing lessons. Research has found that the technique can lead to major improvements that decrease the need for additional special services.
How does treatment for autism work?
Therapy sessions based on Applied Behavior Analysis will likely be frequent, intensive, and highly structured. After a thorough assessment, a therapist will help a child understand and develop skills in a range of areas, including communication, motor skills, social skills, self-care, play, and academic skills, as well as routines of daily living like hygiene. Typically, the therapist will help a child break down the components of a behavior—often referred to as the antecedent (what prompts an action), the behavior, and the consequence(what immediately follows)—and then reward the child at every step, while also asking parents to reinforce the lessons, and the rewards, throughout the day. This core therapy may be supplemented by occupational or speech therapy, and antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants may be prescribed to address specific severe symptoms.
How long does therapy for autism take?
Some people with autism spectrum disorder may be engaged in some level of therapy for many years, but research shows that treatment will be most effective if it is begun early and delivered intensively. When therapy begins by age 3, children tend to be better able to grasp and adopt the skills needed to manage everyday life, including attending school and establishing social relationships. This type of early-intervention treatment regimen is highly structured, typically involving 20 to 40 hours of one-on-one therapy per week, along with additional hours of engagement managed by parents, for a period of two years or more, although the duration of treatment is dependent on the child’s level of symptoms and pace of progress.