Pathways Psychotherapy in Ottawa utilizes evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs and goals. Our Registered Social Worker, Kellye Woods, specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT). Each approach is backed by extensive research demonstrating effectiveness for treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health conditions. During your initial assessment, we collaboratively determine which therapeutic modality or combination of approaches will best address your unique situation and treatment goals. Whether you’re dealing with PTSD, recurrent depression, chronic stress, or relationship difficulties, our Ottawa counselling services provide personalized, flexible treatment that adapts to your progress and changing needs throughout your therapy journey.

Pathways Psychotherapy and Counselling Services in Ottawa specializes in treating a comprehensive range of mental health concerns for youth aged 16 and older and adults across Ontario. We provide expert treatment for stress and anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD and trauma, addictions, anger management issues, insomnia, grief and loss, relationship concerns, self-esteem difficulties, and communication challenges. Our Ottawa therapists also address school or work-related stress, life transitions, family dynamics and family of origin issues, and boundary-setting concerns. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, CPT, ACT, and MBCT, we help clients heal from past trauma while learning effective coping strategies for current distress. Whether you’re experiencing a specific mental health condition or seeking personal development and self-improvement, our compassionate, non-judgmental counselling services provide the support and tools you need to thrive.

Your first therapy session at Pathways Psychotherapy in Ottawa is a comprehensive assessment designed to understand your unique situation and establish a collaborative treatment plan. During this initial session, we’ll explore your history, current symptoms, reasons for seeking therapy, and specific goals you hope to achieve through counselling. Our Registered Social Worker creates a safe, non-judgmental space where you can openly share your experiences and concerns. We’ll discuss which evidence-based therapeutic approaches, such as CBT, EMDR, ACT, CPT, or MBCT, might be most effective for your situation. The assessment helps us understand not just what you’re struggling with, but also your strengths, resources, and what you want your life to look like after therapy. By the end of your first session, you’ll have clarity about your treatment plan, session frequency recommendations (typically weekly or bi-weekly initially), and next steps in your healing journey across Ontario.

The length of therapy at Pathways Psychotherapy in Ottawa varies significantly based on your individual goals, the complexity of concerns, and which therapeutic approach we use. Some structured treatments like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) follow a 12-session protocol, while Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an 8-week program. For general anxiety, depression, or stress management using CBT, many clients notice improvement within 12-20 sessions. Trauma processing with EMDR may take 6-24 sessions depending on whether you’re addressing single-incident or complex trauma. We typically begin with weekly or bi-weekly sessions to promote symptom relief and develop coping skills. As you progress and build the tools to manage your mental health effectively, sessions can become less frequent or shift to maintenance support. Our collaborative approach means you’re actively involved in decisions about session frequency and treatment duration, ensuring therapy aligns with your needs, schedule, and budget throughout your journey.

Yes, Pathways Psychotherapy currently offers all counselling services exclusively through secure online video sessions across Ontario. Our virtual therapy platform allows you to access high-quality, evidence-based treatment from the comfort and privacy of your own home, eliminating travel time and geographical barriers. Research consistently shows that online therapy is equally effective as in-person sessions for treating anxiety, depression, trauma, and most mental health conditions. Our Ottawa-based therapists are experienced in delivering CBT, EMDR, CPT, ACT, and MBCT through telehealth, adapting therapeutic techniques seamlessly to the virtual environment. Online counselling offers several advantages: greater scheduling flexibility, the ability to attend sessions from anywhere in Ontario, reduced anxiety about visiting a therapist’s office, and immediate access to your familiar, comfortable environment for practicing new coping skills. All sessions use secure, confidential video platforms that comply with privacy regulations to protect your personal health information.

Therapy costs at Pathways Psychotherapy in Ottawa vary depending on session length and treatment type. Many extended health insurance plans in Ontario cover psychotherapy and counselling services provided by Registered Social Workers under mental health benefits. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify your coverage for psychological services and determine your reimbursement rate, annual maximum, and whether pre-authorization is required. Our team provides detailed receipts after each session that include all necessary information for insurance reimbursement, making the claims process straightforward. During your initial consultation, we’ll discuss session fees, available payment options, and help you understand how to maximize your insurance benefits. We believe financial concerns shouldn’t prevent you from accessing quality mental health care, so we’re happy to discuss your specific situation and explore solutions that work within your budget. Investment in your mental health through evidence-based therapy provides lasting benefits that extend far beyond the cost of treatment.