Therapy Ottawa:
A Road to Healing, Support and Hope
Everyone deserves support
Life in Ottawa can be absolutely beautiful — but sometimes it feels like the world is just getting away from you. Between work, relationships, family and all the personal stress, it’s no wonder so many people reach a point where they feel lost, drained or totally alone.
If that sounds like you, just know that reaching out for therapy in Ottawa isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of courage. You’re taking the first step towards finding a way out of that darkness.
Here at Aref Psychotherapy, we help people all across Ontario find hope, find balance and find healing. Our compassionate, down-to-earth therapists create a safe and supportive environment where you can talk, process and grow without fear of judgment.
Introduction to Mental Health
Your mental health is at the very heart of everything. It shapes how you see the world, how you feel about yourself and others, and how you connect with the people around you.
It’s just like physical health: it needs care and attention to stay on track. Taking care of your mind helps you manage stress, build healthy relationships and just get through life with more balance.
More and more people in Ottawa are realising that supporting their mental health is not just a good idea – it’s actually essential.
Reaching out for therapy is a proactive step towards healing and feeling whole again. Whether you’re living with anxiety, depression, an eating disorder or just feel like you’re drowning under the stress of everyday life, there is help out there.
You don’t have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders. Here at Aref Psychotherapy, our compassionate therapists offer in-person and online counselling across Ontario, providing a safe space for you to explore your emotions, process trauma and learn the skills you need to feel stronger and more confident.
Therapy isn’t just about fixing problems. It’s about understanding yourself better, communicating more clearly with others and finding some hope again – even when things seem tough.
When you choose to care for your mental health, you’re actually investing in your own growth and development.
With the right psychotherapy services and support, healing is very much possible.
Every single journey is different – but with time, compassion and some good guidance, you can build confidence, find calm and move towards a more balanced and peaceful future.
CONTENT
1. Understanding Mental Health
In this section, we’ll explore the heart of mental health — what it means, why it matters, and how it affects every part of your daily life.
You’ll learn what therapy really is, how it works, and why more people in Ottawa are turning to psychotherapy services for support.
We’ll talk about the importance of self-awareness, emotional care, and recognizing when it’s time to seek help. Whether you’re coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, or eating disorders, this section will show you that caring for your mind is just as vital as caring for your body.
It’s the foundation for everything else — your relationships, work, and overall well being.
What Is Therapy and How Does It Work?
So, what exactly is therapy? It’s when you talk to a trained therapist about your feelings, your thoughts and your struggles. It’s a place to unpack what’s been weighing on your mind, explore what’s been missing and learn new skills to help you navigate your daily life.
Every therapy session is a little different. Some people come in to work through anxiety or depression, while others want to tackle relationship issues, work through trauma or overcome an eating disorder.
In Ottawa, psychotherapy services come from qualified professionals such as:
- Registered psychotherapists
- Psychologists
- Social workers
Each one brings their own special set of skills – but they all share one goal: helping you feel more balanced, more peaceful and more confident in yourself.
College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO)
Why People Choose Therapy in Ottawa
Everyone’s story is unique. Some people start therapy after years of struggling in silence – others come in after a major life event.
The reasons are many and varied: constant anxiety, depression or loss of motivation; stress from work or relationships; feeling disconnected from the people you love; trauma or painful memories that keep coming back; an eating disorder or a negative self-image; or just the desire to understand yourself better and live a more fulfilling life.
Therapy isn’t just for people in a crisis – it’s also for anyone who wants to feel better, communicate more clearly or just live a more happy, balanced life.
Here at Aref Psychotherapy, we see therapy as an act of self-care – helping you reconnect with your inner strength and rediscover your sense of peace.
2. The Therapy Process
Here, we’ll walk through what therapy in Ottawa looks like — from your first session to your ongoing journey of growth.
You’ll learn what happens in a typical psychotherapy session, what types of therapy are available (like CBT, trauma-informed therapy, or family counselling), and what to expect along your journey.
We’ll also explore the importance of a supportive environment and how our compassionate therapists at Aref Psychotherapy help you feel safe and understood throughout the process.
Whether you’re new to therapy or returning after a break, this section helps you know exactly what to expect — and how real change begins.
What Happens During a Therapy Session
If you’ve never been to therapy before, you might be wondering what it’s all about.
Your first session is easy. You’ll meet your therapist, share what’s been going on in your life and talk about what you hope to get out of therapy. There’s no pressure, no rush – it’s your space, your time.Over time, you and your therapist work together on:
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Getting to know your emotions and patterns
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Learning healthy ways to cope with things
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Nurturing your relationships
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Healing from past hurts or traumas
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Feeling better about yourself
The process is a team effort – your therapist will guide you, but ultimately you’re in the drivers seat. Each session moves at your own pace and you get to focus on what’s most important to you.
Types of Psychotherapy Services in Ottawa
Mental health care isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different people need different support – that’s why our Ottawa psychotherapy centre offers a wide range of methods.
Some of the common types of therapy services we provide are:
1. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps you figure out how your thoughts, feelings and actions are all connected. It’s super helpful for dealing with anxiety, depression and stress.
2. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) helps you manage strong emotions and stay grounded during stressful moments. It’s a supportive, skill-based therapy that teaches balance — accepting what you feel while learning healthy ways to cope and grow.
3. Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) is great for people who are struggling with relationships or communication issues. It helps you reconnect with others in a more empathetic way.
4. Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness-Based Therapy combines talk therapy with mindfulness to help you deal with stress and find more calm in your daily life.
5. Family and Couples Counselling
This is for families or partners who are struggling to get along, communicate effectively or deal with change.
Our compassionate therapists tailor every approach to your personal goals, values and comfort level.
The Healing Journey
The therapy journey isn’t always easy, but it’s always worth it. Some weeks you’ll feel strong; other weeks you may feel tired or emotional. That’s okay. Healing takes time, and every step matters.
With each session, you build resilience and self-awareness. You learn to handle challenges more calmly and connect with your well being in new ways.
Our psychotherapists and social workers walk with you through it all — with empathy, patience, and care.
The Value of a Supportive Environment
Healing happens best when you feel safe.
That’s why our psychotherapy centre prioritizes kindness, respect, and safety.
Our therapists understand that trauma, stress, and other factors can make it hard to open up. We never rush the process. You decide what to share, when, and how.
We’re here to help you feel supported every step of the way.
3. Accessibility and Cost
This section focuses on something practical but important — the cost of therapy in Ottawa and how to make it accessible for everyone.
We’ll explain how therapy fees vary, how insurance coverage works in Ontario, and what options exist for affordable therapy. You’ll also learn about sliding scale pricing and reduced rate sessions offered by psychotherapy centres like ours.
Our goal is to help you understand your options clearly — so money never stands between you and the mental health support you deserve.
Therapy Fees and Accessibility
We understand that cost can be a barrier for some people seeking therapy services.
At Aref Psychotherapy, we believe that healing should be accessible. Our fees vary, but we always strive to make affordable therapy possible through:
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Reduced rate sessions
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Flexible scheduling
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Guidance on insurance coverage and insurance plans
Many of our clients are able to use workplace or private benefits to cover part of their psychotherapy services. If you’re unsure, our team can help you understand what your plan covers and how to submit claims.
💬 Tip: Always check if your provider covers sessions with registered psychotherapists or social workers — many insurance plans do!
The Cost of Therapy in Ottawa
Money shouldn’t get in the way of getting help. So, let’s talk about what therapy costs in Ottawa.
Typical Fees
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Registered psychotherapists: $140–$200 per session
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Psychologists: $200–$250 per session
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Social workers: $120–$180 per session
Therapy fees are pretty flexible and depend on your therapist’s experience and the type of sessions you prefer.
Making Therapy More Affordable
We get it – money can be a barrier. That’s why we offer:
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Sliding scale pricing based on income
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Reduced rate sessions with newer clinicians
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No surprises when it comes to fees – we’ll break it down for you upfront
We want everyone to be able to access affordable therapy, no matter what their financial situation.
Does OHIP or Insurance Cover Therapy in Ontario?
We get asked this a lot: “Is therapy covered by OHIP?”
Unfortunately, private therapy sessions are not covered by OHIP in Ontario.
However, many insurance plans and workplace benefits provide partial or full insurance coverage for psychotherapy services, online counselling, or psychology.
Here’s how to check your insurance coverage:
- Look for “mental health” or “psychotherapy” under your health plan.
- See if your plan covers registered psychotherapists, social workers, or psychologists.
- Confirm how many sessions are included per year and at what rate.
You may need to pay upfront and then submit receipts for reimbursement.
If you’re unsure, our team can help you navigate your insurance plans and explain which services qualify for coverage.
4. Choosing the Right Support
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important parts of healing. In this section, we’ll guide you through how to choose a therapist, psychotherapist, or psychologist who truly fits your needs.
We’ll also talk about what makes a good fit — how to tell if your therapist helps you feel heard, safe, and supported — and what to do if they don’t.
You’ll also get to know our team of registered psychotherapists, social workers, and psychologists, and how each brings unique expertise to help you reach your goals.
By the end of this section, you’ll feel confident knowing how to find the kind of support that feels right for you.
When You’re Unsure Where to Start
Many people hesitate before reaching out for therapy. You might think:
“What if I don’t know what to say?”
“What if my problems aren’t big enough?”
“What if it doesn’t help?”
These thoughts are completely normal. The truth is, therapy isn’t about being “broken” — it’s about being human.
Maybe you’re grieving, stressed, or simply tired of trying to manage alone. Maybe you want to feel lighter, calmer, or more in control. Whatever the reason, therapy is a safe place to start.
Our registered psychotherapists and social workers meet you where you are. You don’t need to have it all figured out — you just need to take the first step.
The Difference Between a Therapist, Psychotherapist, and Psychologist
In Ottawa, several professionals provide psychotherapy services. Understanding the difference helps you choose the best fit.
|
Professional |
Education |
Focus |
Covered by OHIP? |
|
Registered Psychotherapist |
Master’s Degree |
Talk therapy, emotional healing |
❌ No |
|
Psychologist |
Doctorate (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) |
Assessment, diagnosis, therapy |
❌ No |
|
Social Worker |
Bachelor’s or Master’s |
Support, life skills, family systems |
❌ No |
|
Psychiatrist |
Medical Doctor |
Medication + mental health treatment |
✅ Yes |
Each role supports mental health in different ways. Most people begin with a psychotherapist or social worker for talk-based support, and may consult a psychologist if they need testing or diagnosis.
How to Choose the Right Therapist
Finding the right therapist can feel intimidating — but it’s one of the most important steps in your healing journey.
You’ll know a therapist is a good fit when you:
✅ Feel safe and understood
✅ Leave sessions feeling supported and hopeful
✅ Notice small positive changes
✅ Feel respected, never judged
Here’s how to start:
- Look for registered psychotherapists, social workers, or psychologists in Ottawa counselling directories.
- Read therapist bios to understand their expertise and mental health areas.
- Book an initial appointment to see if you connect.
It’s okay to try a few therapists before finding the right one. You deserve to work with someone who helps you feel supported and comfortable.
Our Team of Compassionate Therapists
Our team of registered psychotherapists, psychologists, and social workers is deeply committed to your healing.
We’ve supported hundreds of people across Ontario and Ottawa in building healthier, happier lives.
Each therapist brings unique expertise — from trauma recovery to eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and relationships.
Together, we create a supportive environment where you can grow and heal safely.
Our psychotherapy services are inclusive, trauma-informed, and grounded in compassion.
5. Therapy for Every Need
In this section, we’ll explore the wide range of psychotherapy services available for different needs and lifestyles.
You’ll learn how online therapy and online counselling make it easier than ever to access care — whether you live in Ottawa or anywhere else in Ontario.
We’ll also discuss family therapy, couples counselling, and our holistic approach to care, which looks at your mind, emotions, and relationships as one connected system.
No matter your situation — busy parent, student, professional, or someone healing from trauma — there’s a therapy approach designed for you.
Online Therapy in Ottawa and Across Ontario
The world has changed, and so has therapy.
Today, many people prefer online therapy because it’s easy, private, and flexible.
At Aref Psychotherapy, our online counselling services allow clients from anywhere in Ontario to connect with a therapist they trust — right from the comfort of home.
Whether you live in downtown Ottawa or a rural community, online therapy gives you access to compassionate care without travel or scheduling stress.
You can choose between:
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Video sessions for face-to-face connection
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Phone sessions for privacy and convenience
Our online counselling sessions follow the same structure as in-person therapy — just more accessible. Many clients say they actually open up more easily when in their own space.
Benefits of Online Counselling
Here’s why people across Ontario love online therapy:
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No commute or waiting rooms
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Easier to schedule around daily life
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Comfortable and private setting
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Access to a wider range of psychotherapy services
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Perfect for families, young adults, and busy professionals
Our registered psychotherapists and social workers bring the same warmth, empathy, and professionalism to online therapy as they do in-person.
It’s real therapy — just through a screen.
Therapy for Families and Relationships
Relationships are central to our lives — and sometimes, they need care too.
Our psychotherapy services include family counselling and couples therapy for people in Ottawa and across Ontario.
We help families and partners facing:
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Conflict or communication struggles
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Stress from life transitions
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Emotional distance or disconnection
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Trauma that affects the household
Through gentle guidance, each family member learns to express feelings safely, listen with empathy, and rebuild trust.
For couples, therapy offers a chance to understand each other’s needs, heal wounds, and strengthen interpersonal relationships.
When relationships heal, the whole family feels the difference.
Our Holistic Approach to Mental Health
We believe that good mental health is more than just managing symptoms — it’s about creating balance and meaning.
Our holistic approach looks at your whole person: your mind, emotions, relationships, and environment.
During psychotherapy, we help you explore:
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How your body reacts to stress
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How other factors (sleep, habits, trauma) affect your mood
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How your relationships shape your well-being
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How to bring kindness and self-awareness into your daily life
This holistic approach helps you build a stronger sense of self and live more intentionally.
A Supportive Environment for Every Client
We know that reaching out for therapy takes courage.
That’s why our psychotherapy centre is built around comfort, privacy, and trust.
Our therapists listen without judgment and create a supportive environment for every client.
You decide the pace. You decide what feels safe to share.
We meet you where you are — whether you’re processing trauma, managing stress, or learning to rebuild after loss.
Our goal is simple: to help you feel safe, feel supported, and reconnect with your inner strength.
6. Taking the Next Step
The final section is all about hope and action.
We’ll help you understand what happens after you start therapy Ottawa — how progress unfolds, what to expect over time, and how our compassionate therapists support you every step of the way.
You’ll find encouragement to take that first step — to contact our team, book your first appointment, and begin your healing journey.
We’ll also share gentle reminders that healing takes time, that small steps matter, and that you’re never alone in this process.
This section is your invitation to begin — with courage, kindness, and trust that a calmer, more peaceful life is within reach.
How Aref Psychotherapy Supports You
At Aref Psychotherapy, we’re more than a clinic — we’re a community of care.
Our psychotherapy centre brings together registered psychotherapists, psychologists, and social workers who share one mission: helping people build stronger, healthier lives.
We work with clients from all backgrounds, ages, and experiences. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health areas, our compassionate therapists are here to guide you.
Here’s what makes our services special:
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Holistic approach — caring for mind, body, and relationships
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Focus on healing, growth, and long-term well being
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Flexible sessions — in-person or online therapy
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Transparent fees and insurance coverage guidance
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Inclusive care for people from all walks of life
Every therapist in our team believes in kindness, respect, and empowerment.
What to Expect Over Time
The therapy process is different for everyone. Some people notice small changes within a few sessions. For others, deeper healing takes longer.
That’s completely normal. Healing isn’t linear — it’s a journey.
Over time, you may notice that:
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You handle stress more calmly
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You feel lighter and more peaceful
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Your relationships improve
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You feel more confident expressing your feelings
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You reconnect with your sense of purpose
Even small changes matter. Every insight, every boundary, every gentle step forward counts.
Therapy: A Safe Space to Be You
One of the most powerful things about therapy is that it gives you permission to simply be yourself.
You don’t have to pretend, minimize, or hide. You can come as you are — even on the hard days.
Our therapists will meet you with warmth, understanding, and zero judgment.
You’ll have space to talk about:
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Stress from work or family
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Anxiety about the future
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Depression or hopelessness
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Trauma and healing
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Eating disorders or body image
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Relationships that feel complicated
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Any other mental health areas that matter to you
You don’t need to have the right words. You just need to show up. That’s where healing begins.
Taking the Next Step
Reaching out for therapy can feel scary, but it’s one of the bravest choices you’ll ever make.
It means you’re ready to care for yourself — and that’s something to be proud of.
Here’s how to begin your therapy in Ottawa:
- Contact our team through our website or phone.
- Share what kind of support you’re looking for.
- We’ll match you with the right therapist for your needs.
- Book your FREE 15 minutes consultation — in person or through online therapy.
From that first call, we’ll help you feel supported, guided, and safe.
You Deserve to Feel Well
No matter what you’ve been through, healing is possible.
You don’t have to go through it alone.
At Aref Psychotherapy, our mission is to help you rediscover your strength, restore your well being, and reconnect with a fulfilling life.
We believe in small steps, gentle progress, and lasting change.
So, take that first step — reach out today. Let’s walk this path together.
Final Thought
Therapy isn’t about fixing who you are — it’s about helping you remember who you’ve always been: capable, strong, and worthy of peace.
At Aref Psychotherapy, our compassionate therapists are here to support you through every chapter of your healing journey.
With care, connection, and understanding, you can find your way back to balance and live the life you deserve.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, our affordable online counselling services in Canada are here for you. Begin your journey toward healing today.