Aly Giesbrecht Counselling
cpc; MA Counselling Psychology
Who
Therapy can be beneficial for people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds. There are thought to be two experts in the therapeutic relationship...
What
There are some basic things you can expect from therapy, including standards of practice, basic flow of sessions, and more...
Why
People come to therapy for many reasons and no reason too big or too small. Here are some common reasons people seek therapy and benefits...
How
Therapy can take on a variety of forms, from individual to group therapy, online to in-person, talking to artistic expression...
My Approach
I tend to work from a blend of attachment theory, cognitive-behavioural therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and somatic therapy. I am trained in working with trauma.
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I offer a warm, accepting, nonjudgmental environment
for you to address whatever is on your mind!
a note about what therapy is not...
There are some misconceptions about therapy, so let's tackle a few of them here:
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Therapy not a sign of weakness. It takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable and seek help. Contrary to popular belief, in many ways it's 'easier' and 'safer' to stay silent and struggle alone (even though the effects of struggling alone are by no means easy or safe). But it's important to know: there is not a single person alive who does not need help at times.
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Therapy is not just for those who are "really messed up". Sadly, this is another misconception that prevents people from reaping the benefits of therapy. It also spurs on negative judgments toward those who are struggling in life. No one is 'above' therapy!
Therapy is not an indication that you are somehow inadequate in skills, ability, or strength. It shows that you're human and are in the process of growing and learning, and that is a life-long process.
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Therapy is not only about focusing on what's going wrong in your life--it's about focusing on what's meaningful in your life. Addressing what's not going well is absolutely an important part of therapy, but as your therapist, I'm also interested in celebrating with you what's going well for you--so don't be shy about letting me know about those things too!
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.
Maya Angelou