Counselling or Therapy

In addition to medical treatment, professional counselling or therapy is often beneficial in the treatment of mental health problems or mental illnesses. Counselling may address one or more of the following issues:

• effective coping strategies for daily living
• relationships and family communication
• changing negative thought patterns
• dealing with loss and grief
• childhood issues of abuse, neglect or trauma
• crisis planning
• managing emotions in a healthy way
• problem-solving
• building self-awareness and self-esteem
• developing new skills

Counselling can come from a number of perspectives and may be focused on particular issues. Examples of different perspectives may include feminist or faith-based approaches. Sometimes counselling is focused on a particular issue such as domestic abuse, past childhood abuse, or specifically for men. When choosing a counsellor or counselling organization, ask questions about the perspective and focus to make sure it fits with your values, beliefs, and needs.

Finding a Counsellor

• Ask your doctor for a referral to a qualified counsellor (a referral may be required by the counsellor or by your insurance plan to receive coverage).
• See the Yellow Pages under Counsellors.
• Your employer may have an Employee Assistance Program (E.A.P.) that provides free confidential counselling or referral to counselling.
• Check if your private medical insurance plan covers professional counselling.

Contact any one of the agencies listed below.