Services

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Mental health counselling or psychotherapy is a formal, purposeful partnership between a client and licensed mental health practitioner that allows the client to explore relational concerns, improve communication, and resolve conflicts by developing skills that help create healthier, happier relationships. Therapists at Brighter Vision specialize in confidential, evidence-based therapy and work with children, adults, couples, and families to help them nurture positive change and healthy development in their lives and relationships. Appointments are available both in-person and on-line. Most private insurance and employee benefits cover the costs of Social Work services.

• Psychological (Diagnostic) Assessment
• Psychoeducational and Developmental Assessment

Psychological (Diagnostic) Assessment

Psychological assessments are completed for a variety of reasons. The goal is to develop a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s social, emotional, and behavioural functioning in order to determine whether a diagnosis of a psychological disorder is warranted. The diagnosis of a psychological disorder (e.g., mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma-related disorders, etc.) is a controlled act in Ontario, restricted to Psychologists, Psychological Associates, and Physicians.

During the course of a psychological assessment an individual will be asked to complete a clinical interview that will include a discussion of current concerns but also a detailed history. You will also be asked to complete some self-report questionnaires which are chosen based on your presenting questions. On occasion, and with your permission, family members or friends may be included in the process to provide additional information from another person’s perspective.

When your assessment is complete, a comprehensive report containing information you provided about your background, presenting problems, diagnoses, and recommendations for treatment will be generated. This information will then be shared with you in a follow up “feedback” session that will include ample time to address any questions that you may have.

Psychoeducational Assessment

A psychoeducational assessment may include a comprehensive evaluation of a person’s intellectual, developmental, social, and/or emotional development. Common goals of such assessments include identifying and diagnosing the following:

Learning Disorders
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Giftedness
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Behavioural Disorders

Psychoeducational assessments are completed in keeping with the guidelines and expectations of local school boards, but also colleges and universities. These assessments can be instrumental in ensuring that you or your child receive appropriate classroom and/or academic accommodations to allow them to achieve to the best of their ability and thrive in their learning environment. Most private insurance and employee benefits cover the costs of Psychological services.

Divorce ReDefined  

Certified Divorce Coaches (CDCs) help you through the process of divorce and can significantly reduce legal fees. Family Lawyers and Mediators are increasingly recognizing how Divorce Coaches can benefit their clients in many areas from emotion and communication to organization of documents and to understanding the process to help you get through and beyond divorce successfully. A CDC is your advocate and quarterback through it all -- You are not alone! CDC Coaches are professionally recognized by the International Coaching Federation and the American Bar Association. Note: the Divorce Redefined program is offered virtually by Cindy Stibbard, CDC Certified Divorce Coach®.

There are many phases in an individual’s life where working with a career coach may be necessary in order to move ahead. This could include graduating from college, corporate downsizing, becoming an empty nester, or divorce. Sometimes, in divorce situations, you may need to enter (or re-enter) the workforce in order to become self-sufficient or to supplement alimony income. This can be incredibly difficult especially at a time when your confidence, self-esteem and general feelings of well-being may be all but depleted. A Career Coach creates a plan for you to move in your desired direction. Everything in the coaching process is geared toward you finding and landing the job you want. Note: Career Transition & Life Coaching services are offered virtually by Cindy Stibbard, CDC Certified Divorce Coach®.

Telehealth services allow clients to receive treatment consultations  safely and conveniently in our practitioners' secure on-line offices or over the phone. Telehealth sessions share many of the features and benefits of our in-person appointments with the advantage of remaining in the comfort of your home or office. Telehealth is an ideal way to continue your treatment process during physical distancing but also for anyone with busy work, life, and travel schedules; anyone with physical limitations; anyone who is away at college or university; or anyone feeling unwell but still wishes to access support. Telehealth services at Brighter Vision are provided regularly within the province of Ontario. Some services are also offered in other provinces and countries during a State of Emergency. Please inquire to find out more about which services and practitioners offer telehealth appointments.

Animal Assisted Therapy is a therapeutic application that incorporates a therapy dog into the treatment plan of traditional talk therapy. Animals in therapy are known to help create a more relaxed counselling experience and improve the well-being of their human clients. Animals facilitate an atmosphere of trust, nurturance, and relationship-building through their naturally warm and playful interactions with humans.  

Weaver (pictured above) is a retired Dog Guide with years of experience working with people in a therapeutic capacity. Weaver works with therapist Sherri Dowsett during select counselling sessions. Please inquire about scheduling your sessions on a day that Weaver is planned to be in the office.

“It has been found that emotional connections made with animals in therapy translate into more empathetic relationships and attitudes toward other humans.”  -Cynthia Chandler, Professor, Director, University of North Texas

“Humans interacting with animals have found that petting the animal promoted the release of serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin- all hormones that can play a part in elevating moods.” -UCLA Health, 2018.

Those who dislike, fear, or are allergic to animals, are not likely candidates for this treatment. 

Brighter Vision is pleased to offer massage therapy services with a Registered Massage Therapist. Massage therapy is the practice of kneading or manipulating a person’s muscles and other soft-tissue in order to improve their health and wellbeing. Massage therapy is a form of manual therapy that includes holding, moving, and applying pressure to the muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia. Massage therapy offers many benefits and is one of the oldest forms of healing. Some of these benefits include reduced muscle tension, improved circulation, stimulation of the lymphatic system, reduction of stress hormones, relaxation, increased joint mobility and flexibility, improved skin tone, and improved recovery of soft tissue injuries. Our Massage Therapists are registered with the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario which means that if your extended healthcare benefits cover massage therapy, you may be reimbursed for these expenses. Please check with your provider. Most private insurance and employee benefits cover the costs of Registered Massage Therapy services.