Counselling

Psychotherapy, Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, and
Art Therapy

Counselling and psychotherapy are “talk therapies” that have similarities and differences, although they are terms that are often used interchangeably. Counselling tends to focus on present situations and concerns with an emphasis being placed on action and behaviours. Psychotherapy typically focuses on chronic or recurrent issues with an emphasis being placed on one’s thoughts, feelings, behaviours, and experiences. A trusting and supportive relationship between the client and therapist is a key factor in promoting positive therapeutic outcomes. Collaboration between the therapist and client is essential, with the client being viewed as the “expert” of their own life.

Reasons to seek counselling or psychotherapy can include, but are not limited to such concerns as anxiety, depression, relational conflict, life transitions, bereavement, and trauma. Individual and couple sessions typically last 60 minutes. The duration of therapy can be short-term (up to 16 weeks) or long-term, depending on the complexity of the issues being treated.

Emily is a Registered Nurse Psychotherapist specializing in pregnancy, labour, birth and postpartum concerns. She is especially equipped to help clients who have experienced infertility, pregnancy/infant loss, traumatic birth, stillbirth, depression/anxienty in pregnancy or in the postpartum. The childbearing year is an intense time in life, and counseling can help make it more manageable. Emily uses a variety of modialities in her practice, including EMDR, with an overarching person-centered approach.

Counselling services are currently being provided by Janet Sheldon and Emily Gaudreau. To learn more about the counsellors click on their name.

Art Therapy is offered by Cyndi Burgess.

Types of Therapy Approaches

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy-
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that helps people
identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to
their mental health concerns. CBT focuses on providing skills that are practical
and effective and bring lasting change. During CBT sessions, the therapist works
with the patient to challenge negative thoughts and beliefs and develop a more
positive and adaptive way of thinking. CBT can be helpful for a wide range of
mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, and grief. It is typically a
short-term treatment. If you are struggling with mental health issues, CBT may be
a helpful option for you to explore with your therapist.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy-
EMDR therapy is a type of psychotherapy that can help people overcome
traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, and other emotional issues. During
EMDR therapy, the client recalls the traumatic memory while the therapist guides
them through a series of rapid side-to-side eye movements, sounds, or taps. This
process helps the brain to process the memory in a more adaptive way, reducing
the emotional distress associated with it. EMDR therapy is a short-term treatment
that can be effective for a wide range of mental health concerns such as, anxiety,
depression, grief, relationship issues, and post-traumatic stress. Repeated studies
show that through EMDR, people can experience rapid and lasting healing. If you
are struggling with trauma or emotional issues, EMDR therapy is an effective
evidence-based approach to consider.