FAQ

Clinical Psychology combines therapeutic practice and scientific research to assess, diagnose, treat and prevent mental, emotional and behavioural disorders. 

Our practice specializes in supporting first responders, public safety personnel, members of the military and veterans and their families.

We offer virtual assessment, diagnosis and treatment of work-related psychological injuries (also known as mental stress injuries or operational stress injuries).

Psychological Assessment is a systematic process of evaluating mental, emotional, behavioural and cognitive functioning using clinical interviews, standardized tests and observation to determine diagnoses.

Psychological treatment uses scientifically-based talk therapies to help patients understand, manage and overcome emotional, behavioural and cognitive difficulties. 

First responders are routinely exposed to high-stress, life-threatening and emotionally charged situations that put them at an increased risk of sustaining psychological injuries that can impact their mental, emotional and physical functioning, as well as their job performance and personal relationships. They may also be impacted by a lack of organizational or peer support and stigma.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Symptoms include hypervigilance, avoidance, flashbacks, nightmares and intrusive thoughts. 

Depression

• Symptoms include sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest, fatigue and difficulty concentrating.

Anxiety

• Symptoms include generalized anxiety, panic or phobias.

Compassion Fatigue/Burnout

• Symptoms include emotional exhaustion, cynicism and reduced sense of accomplishment.

Secondary (Vicarious) Trauma

• Emotional reactivity from repeatedly hearing about or witnessing the trauma of others.

Sleep Disorders

• Insomnia, nightmares and chronic fatigue can result from shift work, irregular hours and hyperarousal.

Substance Use/Abuse

• Can result from the use of alcohol or drugs to manage stress or difficulty sleeping. 

Sanctuary Trauma refers to the psychological harm that occurs when someone who has experienced trauma seeks help or support from an organization or system they trust but instead is met with betrayal, neglect, disbelief or rejection.

Moral Injury results from actions (or inactions) that violate one's moral or ethical code leading to guilt, shame, anger and spiritual distress.

We use evidence-based and trauma-focused treatment modalities, including:

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

• Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours.

Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

• Helps patients challenge and modify unhelpful beliefs such as guilt, shame or self-blame.

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

• Helps patients manage intense emotions and reduce self-destructive behaviours.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

• Focuses on the ability to stay present, open up to negative thoughts and feelings and take action aligned with a patient's values.

Exposure Therapy

• Helps patients gradually and safely confront trauma-related thoughts, feelings and situations to reduce avoidance and fear.

We provide secure and confidential online services through an encrypted telehealth platform that has been demonstrated by research to be as effective as those provided in-person. Benefits of virtual services include:

Accessibility

• We can reach patients in remote or underserved areas.

Convenience

• Patients do not have to account for travel time and can receive services at home or work.

Continuity of Care

• Enables ongoing support during illness or travel if necessary.

Reduced Stigma

• Some patients feel more comfortable accessing services privately online.

Flexibility

• Easier scheduling and access around shifts.

Absolutely. Everything you share with us is strictly confidential and protected by law. Information is only shared with your consent or when legally required (eg. safety concerns).