Frequently Asked Questions

What is culturally sensitive psychotherapy?

• Culturally sensitive psychotherapy is an approach to therapy that respects and acknowledges each person’s unique cultural background, values, and experiences. It involves creating a safe, inclusive space where individuals feel understood with a close emphasis and understanding of their cultural, racial, ethnic, or religious backgrounds. This type of therapy considers how cultural factors—such as family traditions, beliefs, language, and identity—can shape a person’s experiences and perspectives on mental health.

How do I know if I need therapy?

• Therapy can be beneficial at any stage of life, whether you’re facing specific challenges or simply want to better understand yourself and improve your well-being. You might consider therapy if you’re experiencing feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, or overwhelm that interfere with your daily life or relationships. Therapy can also help if you’re navigating major life changes, coping with loss or trauma, or feeling “stuck” and unsure of how to move forward. Sometimes, you may not have a specific issue but feel a general sense of dissatisfaction or want to work on personal growth, self-esteem, or emotional resilience. Therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts and feelings, gain insight into your patterns, and learn strategies for managing life’s challenges. Ultimately, if you feel that talking to someone could provide support or guidance, therapy may be a helpful resource for you. 

What can I expect during my first therapy session at Choice Point Counselling?

• Your therapist will greet you warmly, aiming to create a comfortable and safe environment. They will introduce themselves and provide an overview of the therapy process. To gain a comprehensive understanding, your therapist may inquire about your personal history, including family dynamics, relationships, work, and any previous experiences with therapy. This helps in tailoring the therapy to your unique context. Together, you’ll discuss what you hope to achieve through therapy. Setting clear, attainable goals helps in creating a focused treatment plan. You are encouraged to ask any questions you have about the therapy process, expectations, or any other concerns to ensure you feel informed and comfortable moving forward.

How long does each therapy session last?

• Each therapy session at Choice Point Counselling is 50 minutes long. This duration allows us to explore your concerns in depth while providing enough time to reflect on key insights and work on strategies for growth. Sessions are designed to create a structured, focused space where you can discuss your thoughts and feelings openly.

Can I choose which therapist I want to work with at your practice?

• Yes, absolutely! You’re welcome to review each clinician’s profile and book an appointment with the therapist who feels like the best fit for you. If you’re unsure or would like guidance, our booking coordinator is happy to help you find the right match based on your needs and preferences. Please keep in mind that availability may vary, and certain clinicians may have limited openings at particular times.

What techniques do you use to address issues related to self-worth and confidence?

• To help clients build self-worth and confidence, we use a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to individual needs. Through these techniques, we work collaboratively with clients to help them develop a resilient sense of self, embracing their strengths and empowering them to face life’s challenges with confidence. Key approaches include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This technique focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns that undermine self-esteem. By reframing these thoughts, clients can develop a more balanced, positive self-view.
2. Affirmations and Positive Self-Talk: Incorporating affirmations and encouraging positive self-talk helps clients replace self-criticism with compassionate, supportive inner dialogue, fostering a stronger sense of self-worth.
3. Strengths-Based Approach: This approach emphasizes identifying and building on each client’s unique strengths and successes, encouraging them to recognize and appreciate their personal assets.
4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT encourages clients to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment, while helping them commit to actions that align with their values, reinforcing self-worth through purposeful living.
5. Somatic Practices: Incorporating mindfulness and body-based techniques can help clients connect with themselves on a deeper level, grounding them in self-awareness and confidence.

What should I do if I’m not sure what type of therapy is right for me?

• If you’re unsure about which type of therapy would best suit your needs, don’t worry—this is quite common, and we’re here to help! At Choice Point Counselling, we offer a variety of therapeutic approaches, and our therapists are skilled at tailoring their methods to each client’s unique situation. You can start by reaching out to our booking coordinator, who can help you decide which therapist and approach may be a good fit. During your initial session, your therapist will work with you to explore your goals and challenges, and together you can decide on the most effective approach. Therapy is a flexible, collaborative process, so we’ll adapt as needed to ensure the experience is meaningful and supportive for you.

How can therapy help me with my anxiety and depression?

• Therapy offers effective tools and support for managing anxiety and depression. Through therapy, you can gain a better understanding of the underlying causes of these feelings and develop strategies to cope with them more effectively. Some ways therapy can help include:

1. Identifying and Challenging Negative Thought Patterns: Techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you recognize unhelpful thought patterns that fuel anxiety and depression, replacing them with balanced, positive perspectives.
2. Building Coping Skills: Therapy equips you with practical tools for managing symptoms, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness practices, and grounding exercises, which can reduce anxiety and improve emotional resilience.
3. Setting and Achieving Goals: Therapy is a space where you can set meaningful, realistic goals for yourself and work towards them at your own pace, building a sense of accomplishment and hope over time.

Does Choice Point Counselling offer sliding scale fees?

• Yes, Choice Point Counselling Services offers individual sessions at a rate of $160. Sliding scale fees are available for those who may be eligible. To discuss your specific situation and determine if you qualify for a reduced rate, please contact us directly.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?

• At Choice Point Counselling, we understand that unforeseen circumstances may require you to cancel or reschedule an appointment. To cancel or reschedule, you can contact us via phone or email. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation with this policy, as it enables us to provide the best possible service to all our clients. To accommodate such situations, we have a cancellation policy in place:

1. Notice Period: Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us to offer the time slot to another client in need.
2. Late Cancellations and No-Shows: Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice, as well as missed appointments without prior notification, may incur a fee. This policy helps us maintain availability and respect the time of both our clients and therapists.

How often should I attend therapy sessions?

• The frequency of therapy sessions depends on your unique needs, goals, and schedule. Many clients find it helpful to start with weekly sessions, as this consistency allows for steady progress and the development of a strong therapeutic relationship. As you begin to feel more comfortable and see progress, you may decide to space sessions out to bi-weekly or monthly, depending on your goals and circumstances. Your therapist will work with you to find a pace that feels right for you, and together, you can adjust the frequency as your needs evolve. Therapy is a flexible process, and we’ll ensure that your schedule supports meaningful growth and healing.

What is the process for setting and reviewing goals during therapy at Choice Point Counselling?

• At Choice Point Counselling, setting and reviewing goals is a collaborative and dynamic process designed to align therapy with your personal aspirations and needs. Here’s how we approach it:

1. Initial Assessment: In your first session, we discuss your current challenges, strengths, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. This conversation helps us understand your unique situation and lays the groundwork for goal setting.
2. Collaborative Goal Setting: Together, we identify specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals that reflect your values and desired outcomes. This ensures that our work is focused and meaningful to you.
3. Action Planning: We develop a clear plan outlining the steps needed to reach your goals. This may involve learning new skills, exploring different perspectives, or implementing coping strategies.
4. Regular Review and Adjustment: Throughout therapy, we regularly assess your progress toward your goals. This allows us to celebrate successes, address any obstacles, and adjust the plan as needed to stay aligned with your evolving needs.