IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL THERAPY

Explore Therapy that Fit Your Needs

We provide a range of evidence-based mental health services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Individual & Group Therapy

Family Support & Coaching

Consultation Workshops & Training

15+ years of clinical experience • Team of Registered Social Workers & Psychotherapists • Dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals

15+ years of clinical experience
•
Team of Registered Social Workers & Psychotherapists
•
Dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals

Image of psychotherapist and client speaking to each other. inidvidual therapy session. True North Psychotherapy located in Guelph, Ontario

Individual & Group Therapy

Evidence Based Therapy

Evidence-based psychotherapies are therapeutic approaches that have been scientifically tested and proven effective through rigorous research. These therapies, such as CBT, DBT, and ERP, are grounded in the latest research and continually refined to ensure they deliver optimal outcomes for clients.

What is Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy?

Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy is an intensive treatment designed for individuals suffering from trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This therapy helps clients process and reduce trauma-related distress by gradually confronting and working through traumatic memories, while simultaneously reducing avoidance behaviors that reinforce trauma symptoms.

How does Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy work?

PE Therapy involves a structured approach where clients are guided to gradually face trauma-related memories, thoughts, and situations that they have been avoiding. Through repeated exposure in a safe and controlled environment, the emotional intensity of these memories diminishes, helping clients regain control over their reactions and reduce PTSD symptoms.

Can this therapy help me?

If you’re struggling with PTSD or trauma-related symptoms, PE Therapy can be highly effective. It is particularly beneficial for those who find themselves avoiding reminders of their trauma, experiencing flashbacks, or feeling overwhelmed by distressing memories. PE Therapy helps by breaking the cycle of avoidance and enabling you to process traumatic experiences in a way that reduces their impact on your daily life.

What can I expect from this therapy?

During PE Therapy, you can expect a supportive environment where your therapist will work with you to safely confront traumatic memories. The process involves repeated exposure to these memories, both in sessions and through guided exercises between sessions. Over time, this approach helps to reduce the emotional impact of the trauma, allowing you to experience a significant decrease in PTSD symptoms and an improvement in overall functioning.

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment approach used to address a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to emotional distress.

How does Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) work?

CBT works by helping you recognize and challenge distorted thinking patterns and replace them with more realistic and balanced thoughts. Through structured sessions, you’ll learn to change the behaviors that are reinforcing negative thinking, leading to improved emotional well-being.

Can this therapy help me?

CBT is effective for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. If you’re struggling with persistent negative thoughts or behaviors that impact your daily life, CBT can help you develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve your overall mood.

What can I expect from this therapy?

In CBT, you can expect a goal-oriented approach where you and your therapist work together to identify specific issues and develop strategies to address them. Sessions typically involve exercises and homework to reinforce what you’ve learned. Over time, you’ll gain new skills to manage your thoughts and behaviors more effectively.

What is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive treatment designed to help clients manage intense emotions, impulsivity, and relationship difficulties. It combines individual therapy and group skills training sessions that focus on four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

How does Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) work?

DBT works by teaching clients practical skills to manage their emotions and behaviors effectively. In individual therapy, you’ll explore personal challenges and develop coping strategies, while group sessions offer a supportive environment to practice these skills with others. The combination of these approaches helps you apply what you learn in real-life situations.

Can this therapy help me?

DBT is particularly effective for individuals struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder, chronic suicidal ideation, self-harm, or those who have difficulty managing intense emotions and relationships. It can help you gain better control over your emotions, reduce impulsive behaviors, and improve your relationships.

What can I expect from this therapy?

You can expect a structured and supportive environment where you’ll learn and practice skills to manage your emotions and behaviors. The program typically includes weekly individual sessions, group skills training, and access to phone coaching for crisis situations. Over time, you’ll develop greater emotional stability and healthier relationships.

What is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a specialized therapy primarily used to treat Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety-related disorders. This therapy involves gradually exposing clients to feared situations or thoughts without allowing them to engage in compulsive behaviors, thereby reducing anxiety over time.

How does Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) work?

ERP works by breaking the cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. In a structured and supportive environment, you’ll be exposed to situations that trigger your obsessions while being guided to resist the compulsions. This repeated exposure helps decrease the anxiety associated with the obsessions and reduces the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors.

Can this therapy help me?

ERP is highly effective for individuals with OCD, phobias, and other anxiety-related conditions. If you find yourself trapped in a cycle of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, ERP can help you regain control by reducing your anxiety and the need to perform compulsions.

What can I expect from this therapy?

During ERP therapy, you’ll work closely with your therapist to identify your specific obsessions and compulsions. The therapy will involve gradually facing these triggers in a controlled manner, helping you learn to tolerate the anxiety without resorting to compulsive behaviors. Over time, you’ll experience mastery over your OCD and anxiety; living more aligned to your values.

What is Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on accepting your thoughts and feelings while committing to actions that align with your personal values. ACT helps increase psychological flexibility, allowing you to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

How does Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Work?

ACT works by teaching you mindfulness skills to stay present in the moment, accept what is out of your control, and commit to actions that improve your life. Instead of trying to eliminate difficult emotions, ACT encourages you to accept them as part of the human experience and focus on what truly matters to you.

Can this therapy help me?

ACT is beneficial for individuals dealing with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and stress. If you feel stuck or disconnected from your values, ACT can help you reconnect with what’s important and guide you toward actions that enhance your quality of life.

What can I expect from this therapy?

In ACT, you can expect a supportive environment where you’ll learn to accept your thoughts and feelings without judgment and take meaningful action in line with your values. The therapy involves exercises in mindfulness, cognitive defusion, and values clarification, helping you build a life that reflects your true self.

Image of family with father, mother and son. family support and coahing available at True North Psychotherapy located in Guelph, Ontario

Family Support & Coaching

Helping families build stronger connections, navigate challenges, and foster healthier relationships with expert coaching and compassionate support.

We provide personalized family support, parent consultation, and coaching, helping parents build confidence and skills to support their child's emotional and behavioral growth within DBT and ERP treatments.

What is Attachment-Focused Parenting?

Attachment-Focused Parenting is an approach grounded in attachment theory, focusing on building and strengthening the emotional bond between parent and child. This method helps parents understand and respond to their child’s emotional needs, creating a secure attachment that fosters emotional growth, trust, and resilience. It is particularly effective for families dealing with emotional or behavioral issues rooted in attachment disruptions.

How does Attachment-Focused Parenting work?

This approach works by helping parents attune to their child’s emotional cues and respond with empathy, consistency, and care. Through structured sessions, parents learn to create a safe, nurturing environment where their child feels secure and supported. Attachment-focused parenting encourages positive interactions that strengthen the parent-child bond, allowing the child to explore their emotions and the world with confidence. This process helps reduce anxiety, improve communication, and promote healthy emotional development.

Can this therapy help me?

If you’re struggling with your child’s emotional or behavioral challenges, or if you want to create a stronger, more secure connection, attachment-focused parenting can be highly beneficial. It’s particularly effective for parents who wish to repair or build trust, improve emotional communication, and support their child’s mental and emotional well-being.

What can I expect from this therapy?

During attachment-focused parenting sessions, you’ll work closely with a therapist to explore your child’s emotional world and develop strategies to respond in ways that promote security and trust. The sessions will include practical tools, reflective exercises, and guidance on fostering emotional safety. Over time, you’ll see improvements in your child’s emotional regulation and behavior, as well as a deeper, more connected parent-child relationship.

What is Family Support, Parent Consultation, and Coaching?

Parent Coaching and Consultation is a service designed to help parents understand and support their child’s emotional and behavioral needs, particularly when their child is undergoing Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) treatment. This approach focuses on equipping parents with the tools and strategies needed to reinforce the therapeutic process at home, offering guidance on how to manage challenges like emotion dysregulation, impulsivity, anxiety, and OCD behaviors.

How does Family Support, Parent Consultation, and Coaching work?

This service works by educating parents on the principles of DBT and ERP and showing them how to implement these strategies in their daily interactions with their child. DBT focuses on building skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, while ERP involves supporting your child in confronting fears without engaging in compulsive behaviors. Parent coaching helps parents apply these therapeutic techniques at home, reinforcing their child’s progress in therapy and creating a consistent, supportive environment.

Can this therapy help me?

If your child is undergoing DBT or ERP therapy for conditions like Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), anxiety, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), this service can be highly beneficial. It’s especially useful for parents who want to enhance their understanding of these therapies, learn how to effectively support their child’s emotional regulation, and create a home environment that encourages ongoing therapeutic progress.

What can I expect from this therapy?

In Parent Coaching and Consultation, you can expect to work closely with a therapist to understand DBT and ERP principles and how they apply to your child’s unique needs. Sessions will include guidance on managing crises, fostering emotional resilience, and using the same techniques your child is learning in therapy to promote lasting behavioral change. Over time, you’ll gain confidence in your parenting role, improve family dynamics, and help your child succeed both in therapy and at home.

What is Circle of Security Parenting Program?

The Circle of Security Parenting Group is an evidence-based program designed to help parents understand and respond to their child’s emotional needs. It focuses on building secure parent-child relationships by enhancing attachment, promoting emotional security, and addressing behavioral challenges. This group supports parents in recognizing and interpreting their child’s cues to foster a strong, healthy bond.

How does Circle of Security Parenting Program work?

The Circle of Security Parenting Group works by teaching parents how to observe and respond to their child’s emotional needs in a structured, nurturing environment. Through group sessions, parents learn to recognize when their child needs support, how to manage their own emotional reactions, and how to create a secure base from which their child can explore the world. By promoting these secure attachments, parents help children develop confidence and resilience.

Can this therapy help me?

If you are a parent looking to improve your relationship with your child, understand their emotional needs better, or address behavioral challenges, the Circle of Security Parenting Group can be highly effective. This program is especially helpful for parents who want to create a secure and supportive environment for their child, leading to healthier emotional development.

What can I expect from this therapy?

In the Circle of Security Parenting Group, you can expect a supportive, collaborative environment where you’ll engage with other parents and learn practical tools to strengthen your relationship with your child. The sessions will include discussions, exercises, and video examples to help you understand key parenting concepts. Over time, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of your child’s emotional world and feel more confident in meeting their needs.

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Consultation Workshops & Training

Elevate Your Expertise with Evidence-Based Therapy Training

Enhance your professional skills with our expert-led workshops and training. We offer evidence-based training in therapies like DBT, ERP, and CBT, designed to help clinicians and organizations elevate their practice and deliver top-quality care.

What are Workshops and Training?

Our workshops, consultation or training services are designed for mental health professionals, educators, and organizations seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and more. These services offer targeted learning opportunities to deepen understanding, improve clinical practice, and support professional development across various mental health settings.

How do the Workshops and Training work?

These services work by providing interactive workshops, one-on-one consultations, and specialized training sessions tailored to the needs of individuals or organizations. The workshops cover foundational and advanced techniques, while consultation services allow for personalized support on complex cases or program development. Training sessions are designed to ensure that professionals leave with practical tools and strategies to apply in their work immediately, all while staying current with the latest therapeutic methods and standards of care.

How can this service help me?

If you are a mental health professional, educator, or organizational leader looking to deepen your expertise in evidence-based therapies, this service is ideal for you. Whether you’re seeking to improve your clinical skills, develop new programs, or train your staff in cutting-edge therapeutic approaches, these workshops and training sessions will provide the resources and support needed to elevate your practice or organization.

What can I expect?

You can expect hands-on, engaging workshops and personalized consultation tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced trainers will provide expert guidance, real-world examples, and practical techniques that you can immediately implement in your practice. Over time, these services will help you strengthen your skills, stay up-to-date with therapeutic advancements, and enhance the quality of care you provide to your clients or students.

What is the Circle of Security Classroom?

The Circle of Security Classroom program is an attachment-based intervention aimed at helping teachers and educators understand and respond to the emotional needs of their students. By focusing on building secure relationships within the classroom, this program empowers educators to recognize students’ attachment behaviors and respond in ways that support emotional security and learning. It fosters a deeper connection between teachers and students, promoting a positive, safe classroom environment.

How do the Circle of Security Classroom work?

The Circle of Security Classroom program teaches educators how to identify students’ emotional needs and respond with empathy and care, creating a secure base for students to explore, learn, and grow. Through a series of training sessions, teachers learn to spot cues that indicate when a student needs support and how to offer that support in a way that nurtures trust and security. The goal is to promote emotional safety in the classroom, reducing behavioral issues and enhancing learning outcomes.

How can this program help me?

If you are an educator seeking to improve classroom dynamics, reduce challenging behaviors, and foster stronger connections with your students, the Circle of Security Classroom program can be highly effective. It’s particularly helpful for educators working with students who struggle with emotional regulation or have experienced attachment disruptions. The program provides a framework for creating a more emotionally attuned classroom where students feel safe, understood, and supported.

What can I expect?

Through participation in the Circle of Security Classroom program, you can expect to gain practical tools and strategies to enhance your interactions with students. You’ll learn how to create a secure and supportive classroom environment by responding effectively to students’ emotional needs. Over time, you’ll see improvements in student behaviour, increased engagement in learning, and a more positive classroom atmosphere where students feel confident to explore and succeed.

Getting Started with Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Begin Therapy?

Starting therapy is simple. First, reach out to us via phone or email to set up an initial consultation. During this consultation, we’ll discuss your concerns and goals for therapy, and determine the best approach to meet your needs. This is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions and get a feel for how therapy works.
What Can I Expect in the First Session?

In your first session, you’ll meet with your therapist to discuss your reasons for seeking therapy and what you hope to achieve. This session is about getting to know you and understanding your background, current challenges, and therapy goals. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions and decide if the therapist is a good fit for you.
How Long Does Therapy Usually Last?

The duration of therapy varies depending on your specific needs and goals. Some people find that a few sessions are enough to address their concerns, while others may benefit from longer-term therapy. Your therapist will work with you to create a plan that’s tailored to your situation.
What Types of Therapy Do You Offer?

We specialize in evidence-based therapies, including Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to name a few. These approaches are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health issues, and we’ll work with you to determine which is best suited to your needs.
Do You Offer Virtual Sessions?

Yes, we offer both in-person and virtual therapy sessions. Virtual sessions are conducted via a secure, confidential platform, allowing you to receive therapy from the comfort of your home. This option is ideal for those who prefer flexibility or have difficulty attending in-person sessions.
What Are Your Fees and Methods of Payment?

Our service fees vary depending on the clinician you see, ranging from $160 to $225 per session. Our team includes Registered Social Workers and Registered Psychotherapists, whose services are not covered by OHIP. However, many extended health insurance plans and employee benefits offer full or partial coverage for these services. Payments for sessions are due at the time of service and can be made via cash, cheque, credit card, or e-transfer. While we do not direct bill to insurance companies, we will provide you with a detailed receipt after each session, which you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.
Will My Insurance Cover Therapy?

Coverage for therapy depends on your insurance provider and plan. Many insurance plans cover Registered Social Workers and Registered Psychotherapists, but it’s a good idea to check with your provider to understand what’s included. We can also provide you with the necessary documentation for insurance claims.
What If I’m Not Sure Therapy Is Right for Me?

If you’re unsure whether therapy is right for you, we encourage you to schedule an initial consultation. This session allows you to explore your concerns and get a sense of what therapy involves without any commitment. It’s a great way to decide if this is the right path for you.
Can I Choose My Therapist?

Yes, you have the option to choose your therapist based on availability and specialization. If you have a preference for a particular therapist or a specific type of therapy, let us know when you contact us. We’ll do our best to match you with the therapist who is best suited to your needs.
How Confidential Is Therapy?

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Everything you discuss with your therapist is kept private, with a few exceptions related to safety or legal obligations. Your therapist will explain the details of confidentiality during your first session, so you know what to expect.
What If I Need to Cancel or Reschedule an Appointment?

We understand that life happens, and sometimes you may need to cancel or reschedule an appointment. We ask that you provide at least 24 hours' notice if you need to make changes to your scheduled session. This allows us to offer the time slot to someone else who may need it.

Frank Pew Found and Clinical Director True North Psychotherapy TNP 2.webp

Upcoming Group Sessions

Adult DBT Skills Training Group

Every Tuesday

20 Week DBT Skills program

New registrations every 5 weeks

Location:

Virtual (Zoom)

Age Group:

Adults 18+

Youth DBT Skills Training Group

Sept 23 - Dec 16

12 Week In-Person DBT

Skills program

Closed group (registration open for January 2025 semester)

Location:

In-person

Age Group:

Youth 12-17

OUR APPROACH

What you can expect when you work with us

Initial Contact

Contact us by phone, email, or fill out our contact form to discuss your needs and schedule a consultation.

Consultation

We will discuss your concerns, goals, and our available services, providing information about the therapists and answering any questions you have.

Intake Process

You'll complete a brief intake form that goes over essential information about your background and current situation. Review our treatment contract, which outlines our policies, confidentiality, and expectations for therapy.

Assessment

In the first few sessions, we will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan. This may include self-administered questionnaires.

Therapy Sessions

Begin regular 50-minute sessions, typically scheduled weekly based on your treatment plan.

Sessions may be scheduled weekly or as recommended by your therapist based on your individualized treatment plan.

Ongoing Support

We provide continuous support and regularly review your progress to ensure that the treatment is effective and aligned with your goals.

Adjustments to the treatment plan are made as needed to accommodate any changes in your needs or circumstances.

IN-PERSON & VIRTUAL THERAPY

Explore Therapy that Fit Your Needs

We provide a range of evidence-based mental health services tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

15+ years of clinical experience • Team of Registered Social Workers & Psychotherapists • Dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals

15+ years of clinical experience • Team of Registered Social Workers & Psychotherapists • Dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals

Individual & Group Therapy

Evidence Based Therapy

What is Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy?

How does Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy work?

Can this therapy help me?

What can I expect from this therapy?

Family Support & Coaching

Helping families build stronger connections, navigate challenges, and foster healthier relationships with expert coaching and compassionate support.

What is Attachment-Focused Parenting?

How does Attachment-Focused Parenting work?

Can this therapy help me?

What can I expect from this therapy?

Consultation Workshops & Training

Elevate Your Expertise with Evidence-Based Therapy Training

What are Workshops and Training?

How do the Workshops and Training work?

How can this service help me?

What can I expect?

Getting Started with Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions

Upcoming Group Sessions

Adult DBT Skills Training Group

Every Tuesday

20 Week DBT Skills programNew registrations every 5 weeks

Location:

Age Group:

Youth DBT Skills Training Group

Sept 23 - Dec 16

12 Week In-Person DBT Skills program Closed group (registration open for January 2025 semester)

Location:

Age Group:

OUR APPROACH

What you can expect when you work with us

Initial Contact

Contact us by phone, email, or fill out our contact form to discuss your needs and schedule a consultation.

Consultation

We will discuss your concerns, goals, and our available services, providing information about the therapists and answering any questions you have.

Intake Process

You'll complete a brief intake form that goes over essential information about your background and current situation. Review our treatment contract, which outlines our policies, confidentiality, and expectations for therapy.

Assessment

In the first few sessions, we will assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan. This may include self-administered questionnaires.

Therapy Sessions

Begin regular 50-minute sessions, typically scheduled weekly based on your treatment plan. Sessions may be scheduled weekly or as recommended by your therapist based on your individualized treatment plan.

Ongoing Support

We provide continuous support and regularly review your progress to ensure that the treatment is effective and aligned with your goals. Adjustments to the treatment plan are made as needed to accommodate any changes in your needs or circumstances.

15+ years of clinical experience
•
Team of Registered Social Workers & Psychotherapists
•
Dedicated to helping you achieve your mental health goals

20 Week DBT Skills program

New registrations every 5 weeks

12 Week In-Person DBT

Skills program

Closed group (registration open for January 2025 semester)

Begin regular 50-minute sessions, typically scheduled weekly based on your treatment plan.

Sessions may be scheduled weekly or as recommended by your therapist based on your individualized treatment plan.

We provide continuous support and regularly review your progress to ensure that the treatment is effective and aligned with your goals.

Adjustments to the treatment plan are made as needed to accommodate any changes in your needs or circumstances.