Adults
Adult Counselling
If you have been holding things together for a while, telling yourself it is manageable or that you will deal with it once things calm down, counselling gives you a place to slow down. Together we look at what is happening, what is keeping you stuck, and practical ways forward that fit your life.
In person in Burlington for clients from Oakville, Milton, Mississauga and Hamilton, and online across Ontario.
What is adult counselling?
Adult counselling is one-on-one therapy focused on you: what you are feeling, what is weighing on you, and what you want to change. Sessions are a conversation with a purpose. Some days you will come in knowing exactly what you want to talk about; other days you will arrive with a feeling you cannot quite explain. Both are useful.
What you are feeling rarely sits on its own, so we look at the whole picture: sleep, health, stress, work, relationships and the people around you, not just the thing that brought you in.
Common reasons adults reach out
Anxiety, worry, or feeling constantly on edge
Low mood, depression, or losing interest in things
Grief and loss
Trauma or post-traumatic stress
Burnout and work stress
Separation, divorce, or relationship difficulties
Life transitions you did not plan for
Recovering from a controlling or narcissistic relationship
Low self-esteem or people-pleasing
Support after trauma
After a frightening or painful experience, it is common to feel on guard, have unwanted memories, avoid reminders, or feel disconnected from the people around you. Trauma-informed therapy moves at your pace. The focus is on safety and steadiness first, then on making sense of what happened and how it still affects you, so that it takes up less space in your life.
We also work with correctional staff, first responders and other public safety personnel, who may carry the effects of cumulative stress from the job.
Separation, divorce and life transitions
Separation, a new role, a move, becoming a parent, a health change, or the end of a long chapter can shake your sense of who you are. Counselling gives you space to grieve what has changed, steady yourself, and make decisions with a clearer head. For separating parents, we can also help you think through co-parenting and how to support your children.
What to expect
- Free consultationA 15-minute call to talk about what is going on and whether we are a good fit.
- First sessionWe talk about what brought you in, your history, and what you would like to be different.
- A plan that fits youTogether we choose a focus and an approach, drawing on CBT, DBT-informed skills, narrative, solution-focused, somatic or mindfulness-based work as it suits you.
- Ongoing sessionsSpace to talk, understand patterns, and practise new ways of coping between sessions.
- Reviewing progressWe check in regularly on what is helping and adjust as you go.
You do not need to arrive with a diagnosis or a clear explanation. You can start with whatever feels most pressing.
Pricing
Session rates are based on 50-minute appointments, in person at our Burlington office or online by secure video or phone anywhere in Ontario. Appointments are available days, evenings and weekends. Extended sessions are available on request.
Insurance and OHIP Coverage
Many extended health plans cover sessions with a Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, Social Worker or Registered Psychotherapist. Please confirm with your insurance provider before your first session. OHIP does not cover these services, but fees may be claimed as a medical expense on your income tax return.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I need counselling?
If something has been weighing on you for a while, affecting your sleep, work, relationships or mood, or you simply want a space to think things through, counselling can help. You do not need to be in crisis.
Do I need a diagnosis or referral?
No. You can book directly. Some insurance plans ask for a doctor’s referral before they reimburse, so check with your provider.
What happens in the first session?
We talk about what brought you in, some background, and what you would like to be different. You share only what you are comfortable sharing.
How often will we meet?
Many people start weekly or every two weeks, then space sessions out as things improve. It depends on your goals and schedule.
Is what I say confidential?
Yes, with a few legal exceptions, such as a serious risk of harm. Your therapist will explain these at the start.
Are sessions in person or online?
Both. Sessions can be in person at our Burlington office, or online by secure video or phone anywhere in Ontario.
Related reading
Take the first step
You do not need to have it all figured out before reaching out. A free 15-minute consultation is a chance to share what is going on and ask whether counselling could help.
Safety disclaimer
This page provides general information only. It is not a diagnosis, an assessment, or a substitute for individual care. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing an emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. If you are in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 9-8-8, available 24/7 across Canada. Booking requests and messages to our office are not emergency services. You do not need to manage an emergency on your own.