Therapeutic Modalities
We often hear from individuals who have been asked to request a specific modality but they are unsure of what that specific modality entails. Each of our providers incorporate modalities based on their education, experience and training and through consultation with you, the client.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
CBT was developed in the 1960’s by Aaron T. Beck, and further refined by Albert Ellis. It is an evidence-based psychotherapy that focuses on helping to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviours.
CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts, feelings and behaviours are interconnected, and changing on of those components can lead to change in the others.
Engaging in CBT typically has the following key components: assessment, collaborative goal-setting, cognitive work, behavioural techniques and feedback. Therapy is typically short-term, lasting about 12-16 weeks and is highly structured.
CBT can be helpful in addressing depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, stress and anger, among others.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT is a type of cognitive behaviour therapy that was developed in the 1980’s by Marsha Linehan. It was originally developed, and is still widely used to help treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), although it has been adapted for a wide range of concerns that involve emotion dysregulation, impulsivity and difficulty with interpersonal relationships.
Standard DBT is highly structured and includes weekly individual therapy, group therapy and skills coaching. A typical DBT session includes setting an agenda, behavioural analysis, skill building, validation and support, and assigning homework.
DBT has been shown to help address borderline personality disorder, self-harm and suicidality, substance use, and trauma.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a highly structured and specialized form of psychotherapy that was developed in the late 1980’s by Francine Shapiro. It was originally developed and highly successful in treating post-traumatic stress disorder and has since been helping in treating anxiety, substance use, grief and phobias.
EMDR is typically conducted in 8 phases which include history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure and evaluation. During an EMDR processing session, your therapist will utilize bilateral stimulation (BLS) to support you through the reprocessing of traumatic memories. The use of bilateral stimulation is thought to mimic rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and is achieved through side to side eye movements, tapping, auditory tones or tactile sensations.
Sex Therapy
Sex therapy is a specialized branch of psychotherapy that focuses on addressing sexual concerns and sexual health and wellness. It is grounded in the belief that sexual health is an essential component of overall health. Sex therapists are trained professionals who provide education, guidance and support to individuals and couples that present with a wide-range of sexual-related concerns.
A typical session with a trained sex therapist can include assessment, education, exploration, skill building, communication and between session work.
Sex therapy has been found to be especially helpful with a wide variety of concerns, including addressing sexual dysfunction, improving intimacy, exploring sexual identity, healing from trauma, managing sexual pain and navigating life transitions.
Grief Therapy
Grief therapy is a specialized type of psychotherapy designed to support individuals struggling with the emotional, psychological and physical pain that often accommodates loss. The goal of grief therapy is to navigate the complex and often overwhelming emotions associated with the loss.
A typical grief therapy session can include assessment, validation, expression, coping strategies, exploration of meaning and setting realistic expectations.