Therapy Questions, Straight Answers

How do I know if therapy is right for me?

If you're asking this question, you're already thinking like someone who could benefit from therapy. You might find it helpful if anxiety is affecting your work performance, you feel stuck despite your usual problem-solving skills, or stress is impacting your relationships.

Many clients are high-achievers who recognize that mental wellness is as important as physical health. You don't need to be in crisis - therapy is also about building resilience and developing practical skills for life's challenges.

Ready to explore if therapy is right for you? Call (416) 306-2157 for a free consultation.

What makes Next Step Therapy different?

We specialize exclusively in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), an evidence-based approach that focuses on building psychological flexibility rather than just managing symptoms. ACT is practical and action-oriented, focusing on real-world application.

Our virtual-first approach means you can access specialized ACT therapy from anywhere in Ontario. We offer evening and weekend appointments because mental health doesn't follow a 9-to-5 schedule.

As a CRPO registered therapist (#10979) with advanced ACT training, I bring specialized expertise that many general practitioners don't offer.

Do you take insurance?

Yes, most extended health plans cover services from Registered Psychotherapists (CRPO). We provide all necessary receipts and documentation for reimbursement.

During your free consultation, we'll help you understand your specific coverage. Investment in mental health often pays dividends in improved work performance, better relationships, and enhanced quality of life.

What's the difference between a psychologist and psychotherapist in Ontario?

Both can provide therapy, but psychologists typically have doctoral degrees, while Registered Psychotherapists have master's level training and are regulated by CRPO. As a CRPO registered psychotherapist with an M.A. in Psychology and advanced ACT training, I provide the same evidence-based therapy services.

The most important factor is finding a therapist whose approach and expertise match your needs, not the specific credential.

What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?

Many people have had disappointing therapy experiences. ACT therapy is different - it's action-oriented and focuses on building specific skills you can use in real-world situations.

If previous therapy felt like "endless talking," ACT's emphasis on psychological flexibility and values-based living might be exactly what you need. We focus on what works, not what sounds good in theory.

What exactly is ACT therapy?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) builds psychological flexibility - your ability to adapt your thoughts and behaviors to align with your values, even when facing difficult emotions. It's practical, research-backed, and designed for people who want real-world skills.

Instead of trying to eliminate anxiety or depression, ACT teaches you to change your relationship with these experiences while still pursuing your goals.

How is ACT different from CBT?

CBT typically works on changing negative thoughts. ACT focuses on changing your relationship with thoughts - learning to make room for them while still pursuing your goals. ACT is more accepting of human struggles while emphasizing action aligned with personal values.

Think of it this way: CBT asks "Is this thought true?" ACT asks "Is this thought helpful right now?"

What does "acceptance" mean in ACT?

Acceptance in ACT doesn't mean giving up or liking your problems. It means acknowledging reality so you can respond effectively, rather than wasting energy fighting what you can't control.

Acceptance empowers change by helping you focus your energy where it can make a difference - your actions and choices.

Will ACT help me get rid of my anxiety?

ACT's goal isn't eliminating anxiety - it's building a meaningful life even when anxiety shows up. Rather than focusing on getting rid of difficult emotions, ACT teaches you psychological flexibility so they don't control your life choices.

Many clients find that when they stop fighting their emotions, the intensity naturally decreases. But more importantly, they learn to live fully regardless.

What is psychological flexibility?

Psychological flexibility is your ability to stay present and take action guided by your values, even when facing difficult thoughts or emotions. It's like mental agility - crucial for handling pressure, adapting to change, and maintaining performance while preserving well-being.

Is virtual therapy as effective as in-person?

Research consistently shows virtual therapy is as effective as in-person for most conditions. The therapeutic relationship and evidence-based techniques matter more than location. Many clients prefer the convenience and find it easier to maintain consistent sessions.

Virtual sessions also eliminate travel time, parking hassles, and scheduling conflicts - making therapy more sustainable long-term.

What technology do I need?

Just a device with a camera and microphone (computer, tablet, or smartphone), reliable internet, and a private space. We use a secure, PIPEDA-compliant platform that works through your web browser - no downloads required.

How do you ensure privacy in virtual sessions?

We use a PIPEDA-compliant virtual therapy platform with end-to-end encryption. Your sessions are as secure as in-person meetings. As a CRPO registered therapist, I'm bound by strict confidentiality requirements regardless of the format.

Can I do sessions from anywhere in Ontario?

Yes, as long as you're physically located in Ontario during sessions. This is helpful for business travelers, students, and those in rural areas where specialized ACT therapy isn't readily available locally.

What if I have technical difficulties?

We're prepared for technical issues with backup communication methods. You won't be charged for time lost to technical difficulties. We'll also do a quick tech check during your free consultation.

What happens in the first session?

Your first session is about getting to know each other and understanding what brought you to therapy. We'll discuss your current challenges, what you've tried before, and what you're hoping to achieve. It's conversational, not interrogational. You're in control of what you share.

How long does therapy take?

ACT therapy is generally shorter-term than traditional approaches, often showing benefits within 8-16 sessions. We'll regularly check in about your progress and adjust our approach as needed. The goal is to give you practical skills you can use independently.

How often will we meet?

Most clients start with weekly sessions, then gradually space them out as they build skills. We'll find a rhythm that works for your life and goals. Consistency is more important than frequency.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule?

We have a flexible cancellation policy - just give reasonable notice when possible. Our virtual format makes rescheduling easier since there's no travel time to consider.

Can I contact you between sessions?

Yes, you can reach out via email if you're having difficulties. While we can't provide full therapy sessions via email, we can offer brief support and help you apply the skills we've been working on.

How will I know if therapy is working?

You'll likely notice changes in how you respond to stressful situations, increased confidence in handling challenges, and better alignment between your actions and what truly matters to you. We'll check in about your progress regularly and adjust our approach as needed.

I'm worried about confidentiality as a professional. How do you handle this?

Professional confidentiality is critical. As a CRPO registered therapist, I'm bound by strict confidentiality requirements. Your therapy participation cannot be disclosed to employers or colleagues without your explicit consent.

Virtual sessions offer additional privacy - no risk of being seen entering a therapist's office.

Can therapy help with workplace stress and performance anxiety?

Absolutely. ACT is particularly effective for workplace challenges. We'll work on managing presentation anxiety, handling difficult colleagues, balancing high performance with well-being, and making career decisions aligned with your values.

I'm successful but still feel anxious or unfulfilled. Can therapy help?

This is very common among high-achievers. External success doesn't always translate to internal satisfaction. ACT is particularly helpful here because it focuses on values-based living - exploring what truly matters to you beyond professional success.

What if someone finds out I'm in therapy?

Therapy is increasingly recognized as a sign of self-awareness and commitment to personal growth. Your participation is completely confidential, and virtual sessions eliminate the risk of being seen entering a therapist's office.

Many successful professionals prioritize their mental health just like their physical health.

Can you help with career transitions or major life decisions?

Yes, ACT is excellent for major life transitions because it helps clarify your values and develop confidence in making difficult decisions. It provides a framework for making authentic choices rather than ones based solely on external expectations.

How do you understand the pressures of high-achieving environments?

Working extensively with professionals and students, I understand the unique pressures: perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and the challenge of maintaining well-being while pursuing ambitious goals. ACT is particularly relevant for addressing the gap between external success and internal satisfaction.