Counselling Therapy Services for Adults
At times, life can present challenges that are overwhelming, and some people find it helpful to have space to talk through emotional roadblocks. At Shoreline, we are passionate about empowering individuals, serving as a listening ear, and supporting people in identifying their strengths when working towards overcoming obstacles and striving toward achieving their goals. We recognize and respect the importance of accommodating the needs and lived experiences of every unique individual, through tailoring our therapeutic approach to appreciate the needs of clients with where they are at in their personal journey. We value creating a collaborative, and respectful relationship with clients, where they can expect a warm, open, non-judgmental, and safe space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Our goal is to help clients become comfortable navigating through their journey of growth and self-discovery.
Services
Counselling therapy services are available for adults age 19 and older for anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, self-esteem, stress management, and life transitions.
Sessions are a full 60 minutes and can be held in person or by Zoom.
We approach counselling from a holistic client-centered and strength-based framework, integrating evidence-based strategies from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy.
To inquire about services, please contact us.
To learn about Shoreline's counselling therapist, read more here.
When to Consider Counselling
There is no right or wrong reason for seeking counselling, it looks and means something different for everyone. We believe that there is no issue too large or too small, and having a safe space to express and explore issues you are experiencing with someone regularly outside of friends and family can be healthy. If you decide to become a client at Shoreline, whenever you feel you need extra support we will fit you in for an appointment.
What is the Purpose of the Initial Consultation?
Counselling services begin with a brief (15-minute) initial consultation. There is no charge for this initial consultation. It is held by phone or video call between the prospective client and counsellor. Designed as an information session, it provides an opportunity for people interested in seeking counselling services to express their presenting concerns, learn about the therapeutic approaches the clinician utilizes and for both client and counsellor to determine whether the counsellor may be an appropriate fit for their specific needs. These are not formal therapy sessions, but rather are intended to determine therapeutic fit. If there is another service that would better fit a person's needs, the counsellor may be able to provide this information.
What is Therapeutic Fit and Why is it Important?
Therapeutic fit refers to the relationship formed between client and counsellor. At its core, therapy is a talking relationship, one that must feel comfortable, trusting, non-judgmental, and respectful. Having a strong therapeutic fit is one of the key foundations for positive outcomes.
What to Expect in Counselling
We strongly believe that you are the expert of your own life. The counselling process involves collaborative work between client and counsellor where counsellors provide support and tools for clients to feel more comfortable with decision making. We tailor our therapeutic approach to meet clients’ individual needs due to the presenting concerns they are entering counselling to address or goals they are looking to achieve.
Services for Persons with Communication Disorders
Persons with communication disorders (e.g., aphasia, dementia, stuttering, voice disorders) often find it difficult to connect with a counsellor who has the skills to communicate effectively with a person with a communication disorder and/or who appreciates the unique challenges associated with communication disorders. By working within a multidisciplinary service which includes speech-language pathologists, Shoreline's counsellor is uniquely suited to support persons with communication disorders to engage in and benefit from the therapeutic process.
How do I know Which Mental Health Profession is Right for Me?
It can be overwhelming and confusing trying to determine which mental health professional can best support you. It’s important to understand the areas of expertise, training and insurance coverage offered by these professionals. Some key differences between these professionals are described below.
Registered Social Worker (RSW)
The role of these professionals is to support individuals, families, and or communities to improve well-being. Professionals holding an MSW may have additional training to provide talk therapy.
Persons holding a designation of Registered Social Worker, or a Master of Social Work (MSW) are regulated by the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW).
Registered Counselling Therapists (RCT) - Available at Shoreline
Counsellors often work toward addressing and supporting people with a more specific set of presenting concerns (behavioural, emotional, mental health) that is impacting their daily functioning or well-being.
Individuals holding a designation of Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) or Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate (RCT-C) are regulated by the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists (NSCCT).
If a counsellor is in their candidacy period (RCT-C), this allows them to practice independently while completing a required clinical supervision period by an approved supervisor. Shoreline's counsellor works indirectly with their supervisor - their supervisor is not present during sessions.
Psychologist
Psychologists offer evidence-based assessments and evaluations that may lead to a mental health diagnosis while also providing counselling services, whereas counselling therapists are not able to legally provide a formal mental health diagnosis.
Individuals holding a designation of Registered Psychologist (R.Psych) or Candidate Registered Psychologist are regulated by the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology (NSBEP).
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors and must be licensed to practice by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia. Psychiatrists complete specialized training in diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders and can legally prescribe medication. While psychiatrists are able to provide counselling services, there is often more of a focus on meeting the need for providing psychological evaluations and the prescription of medication. Individuals must be referred by a physician to be seen by a psychiatrist.