Psychotherapists are mental health professionals who help people improve and maintain their mental health and well-being and are trained primarily in talk-based therapy. Psychotherapists aim to bring out positive change in a client’s way of thinking, feeling, behaving, and social functioning. People seek out psychotherapists when they have thoughts, feelings, moods, and behaviours, that are adversely affecting their daily functioning, relationships, and capacity to feel joy. Psychotherapists can work with individuals, groups, couples, and families.

Psychologists and psychological associates are trained professionals in the assessment, treatment, and prevention of behavioural and mental conditions. Given their doctoral degree, they have extensive training in research and/or clinical practice and can provide testing/assessment and evaluation. While they are not medical doctors and cannot prescribe medication, they do diagnose neuropsychological disorders and dysfunctions including psychotic, neurotic, and personality disorders and dysfunctions. In treatment, psychologists and psychological associates utilize a variety of approaches to help people maintain and enhance functioning.

Psychiatrists are mental health professionals who hold a doctorate in medicine (MD). Psychiatrists focus on the medical side of mental illness by prescribing medication. While some psychiatrists provide talk therapy, they usually place emphasis on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health issues.

RP (Qualifying) psychotherapists are registrants of the CRPO and have completed or are near completion of their psychotherapy training. They are legally authorized to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy and are required to practice with clinical supervision as they gain experience in the profession (CRPO, 2023).

RP (Qualifying) and Registered Psychotherapists (RP) are held to the same standards, professional obligations, Quality Assurance mechanisms, and accountability frameworks (CRPO, 2023).

The first step is reading our therapist’s profiles and determining which ones you align with best. Book several FREE virtual consultations (either by phone or video) and pay attention to how to connect with the therapist. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you feel heard?
• Were your questions answered?
• Can you see yourself sharing personal information with this therapist?
• Is there potential to be vulnerable with this therapist?

More logistical questions (also important to consider):

• Does my insurance cover this therapist’s license?
• Can I afford therapy with this therapist?
• Does their approach align with my values?
• Do I have the ability to engage in remote therapy (aka do I have a confidential space)?

And remember, the same way you choose to enter therapy you can choose to leave. Therapists will not take offense to you transitioning to another therapist due to the wrong fit.

This depends on the individual, presenting concern, and treatment goals. Each person is on a unique therapeutic journey. Discuss with your therapist how long would be most helpful and beneficial to you.

Evergreen Therapeutics is covered under most extended health insurance plans as psychotherapeutic and counselling services can be claimed under Registered Social Worker and/or Registered Psychotherapist. If you are unsure if our services will be covered, we advise you to check with your insurance plan to be certain before booking.

The frequency is up to the individual and is often based on their presenting concern and treatment goals. It is recommended that individuals start therapy on a weekly or biweekly basis to encourage consistency, between session work, and accountability. More frequent sessions also usually help clients see and feel progress sooner as opposed to when they are spaced further apart. Once engaged in treatment, clients often decide to space out the frequency of appointments when they feel like can do so without detriment.

You can book directly through the website by clicking a therapist of your choice and clicking the button that says “Book with ___”. Alternatively, you can email our administrative team at admin@evergreentherapeutics.ca and be placed into a therapist’s schedule by us.

You can also contact your therapist directly to book via phone. Below are the numbers for each of our therapists:

• Francesca: 647-498-4283 ext. 0
• Daniela: 647-498-4283 ext. 1
• Eunice: 647-498-4283 ext. 2
• Payal: 647-498-4283 ext. 3