Psychotherapy, talk or talking therapy, counseling, or simply therapy—no matter the name it’s known by, mental health counseling can benefit people struggling with emotional difficulties, life challenges, and mental health concerns.

Therapy can help improve symptoms of many mental health conditions. In therapy, people also learn to cope with symptoms that may not respond to treatment right away. Research shows the benefits of therapy last longer than medication alone. Medication can reduce some symptoms of mental health conditions, but therapy teaches people skills to address symptoms on their own. These skills last after therapy ends, and symptoms may continue to improve, making it less likely people will need further treatment.

That's okay. Many aren't when they start. Here's how you know:

When any type of mental health or emotional concern affects daily life and function, therapy may be recommended. Therapy can help you learn about what you’re feeling, why you might be feeling it, and how to cope. Therapy also offers a safe place to talk through life challenges such as breakups, grief, parenting difficulties, or family struggles.

Encouraging someone you care about to look into possible therapy options, even offering to review potential therapists with them, is generally a better way to show support.

It is normal and natural to feel nervous or anxious at your first counselling session. We understand that it takes a lot of courage to come share your emotions and life experiences with someone you have just met. We aim to make the counseling atmosphere comfortable and free from judgment. At first, your therapist will talk with you, ask questions, and listen to learn more about you. Depending on your needs, your therapist will listen, work with you to set goals, and build skills and coping mechanisms - in hopes of leaving you feeling empowered and heard.

Breaking Barriers Counselling Centre assures confidentiality at all times. As a client, you are guaranteed the protection of confidentiality within the boundaries of the client/counselor relationship. Breaking Barriers Counselling Centre will not make any disclosure of any information without your consent. Any limitations to confidentiality will be discussed prior to beginning your session.

Length of counseling treatment varies depending on the individual and the problem they are presenting with. Therapy can last anywhere from one session to several months or even years. While some clients look for solution-focused brief therapy to address an imminent issue, others decide to seek therapy to explore underlying issues dating from their childhood. 

Counselors at Breaking Barriers Counselling Centre will discuss your treatment plan in detail with you which would also involve setting a time guideline necessary to achieve your goals.

Yes. Members of the OCSWSSW are authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy in compliance with the Social Work and Social Service Work Act, 1998 (the “SWSSWA”), its regulations and bylaws. 

Members must practise in accordance with the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice Handbook , Second Edition, 2008 as revised from time to time, which have been approved by bylaw. In order to determine if they are competent to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy, members should also review the Practice Guidelines for Performing the Controlled Act of Psychotherapy which were approved by Council in December 2017 and are available on the College website.

In Ontario, Registered Social Workers and Registered Psychotherapists don’t have the ability to complete a diagnosis or prescribe medication. Only medical doctors, psychologists and psychiatrists can complete a clinical diagnosis. Of these professionals, doctors and psychiatrists are both covered by OHIP and are able to prescribe medication.

Our Meet and Greet (or consultation) is a 15 minute appointment which is free of charge. An individual session is 60 minutes, and will cost $130/hr. Couple/family sessions are 75 minutes and are $180.00.  Our services are often covered by your extended health benefits plan.  Payment is collected following your appointment, we accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Visa Debit. Once the payment is processed, an invoice will be sent directly to your email address, for you to provide directly to your insurance provider.

As of 2012, Psychotherapy services provided by a Registered Social Worker are recognized as an income tax deductible medical expense by Revenue Canada.

Very simple! Here are a few ways to do this:

• You can make a booking by clicking this link.
• You can call us at 289-522-0133 to make an appointment.
• Email us at info@breakingbarrierscc.ca to get further information.