❓ What is 'Psychotherapy'?

Psychotherapy—sometimes called “talk therapy”—is a collaborative process where you work with a trained counsellor to explore challenges, understand your thoughts and feelings, and build tools to support your mental health and wellbeing.

At Create PAUSE Counselling, psychotherapy isn’t just about talking—it’s about creating a safe, supportive space where you can pause, reflect, and begin making meaningful changes. Together, we’ll focus on helping you:
🌿 Understand patterns that may be keeping you stuck
🌿 Learn practical skills to manage emotions and stress
🌿 Strengthen relationships and your sense of self
🌿 Heal from past experiences and move forward with confidence

Psychotherapy can look different for everyone. It might involve individual sessions, family work, or even blending counselling with resources from our Learning Hub. It’s about meeting you where you are and walking alongside you as you work toward your goals

❓ Who can benefit from counselling?

Honestly? Just about everyone. Counselling isn’t only for moments of crisis—it’s a supportive space to build self-awareness, explore your strengths, and learn tools to navigate life’s challenges with more ease and confidence.

Psychotherapy can help you:
🌿 Manage stress, anxiety, or overwhelming emotions
🌿 Heal from grief or past experiences
🌿 Strengthen relationships and communication
🌿 Discover new ways to cope and grow through life’s ups and downs
🌿 Reconnect with your sense of self and what truly matters to you

If you’re wondering, “Do I really need counselling?”, you’re not alone. Many people feel unsure at first. But reaching out is a brave step—and even a short conversation can help you decide if it’s right for you.

✨ Give Melissa a call today for a free consultation. Together, you can explore how counselling might support you or your family.

πŸ’‘ Tips to Get the Most from Counselling

Counselling works best when you bring your whole self into the process. Here are a few ways to make it even more effective:

  1. 🌱 Attend regularly – progress builds with consistency.

  2. πŸš— Be willing to test out strategies – think of it like taking new tools for a test drive.

  3. 🀝 Work collaboratively – your feedback and questions are welcome.

  4. πŸ’¬ Share your needs openly – therapy works best when we tailor it to you.

  5. ⏳ Be patient with yourself – meaningful change takes time and courage.

  6. πŸŽ‰ Celebrate your progress – every step forward matters

❓ Does going to counselling mean I’m β€œcrazy”? Will you judge me?

Absolutely not. And let’s be very clear: no one is “crazy.” That word is hurtful and doesn’t reflect the reality of what it means to be human.

We all have moments when life feels overwhelming or when we respond to pain in ways we don’t fully understand. That doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you—it means you’re human, and you deserve support.

At Create PAUSE Counselling, this is a judgment-free space. Our work together is about understanding—not blaming—so you can begin to make sense of your experiences, build compassion for yourself, and take steps toward healing and growth.

✨ Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a courageous step toward your “life worth living.”

❓ Which is more effective: virtual, in-person, or walk & talk therapy?

The good news? All three can be equally effective. It really depends on what feels most comfortable and supportive for you.

🌿 Virtual sessions are a great option if you want the flexibility to fit therapy into your day—whether it’s on a lunch break, between classes, or from the comfort of your own space.

🌿 In-person sessions let you step out of your home and into a calming, private space designed just for you. Some people find that coming to therapy helps them set aside distractions and fully focus on themselves.

🌿 Walk & Talk therapy combines movement, fresh air, and conversation. For some, walking side-by-side in nature feels more comfortable than sitting face-to-face, and being outdoors can help ease anxiety or spark new insights.

✨ There’s no “right” choice—it’s about what works best for your life and your comfort level. Many people even mix and match options depending on their needs

What happens if I feel unable to keep myself safe? Or if I am having thoughts/urges to hurt myself?

 

🌱 Crisis & Community Resources

At Create PAUSE Counselling, we know that sometimes life feels heavy and overwhelming. If you or someone you care about is in crisis—or if you’re unsure where to turn—there are people ready to listen and support you 24/7.

All of the services below are free, confidential, and available to St.β€―Thomas and Elgin County residents.


πŸ‘©‍πŸ‘§‍πŸ‘¦ Youth & Family Supports

πŸ“ž TANDEM (formerly C-IT Crisis Line)

Call: 519‑433‑0334 (24/7)
Support for children & youth (birth–18 years) and their caregivers. TANDEM offers 24-hour telephone crisis intervention and helps coordinate intake for Vanier, Craigwood, and Humana services.


πŸ“± Kids Help Phone

Call: 1‑800‑668‑6868 (24/7)
πŸ’¬ Live Chat: kidshelpphone.ca
Support for children and youth across Canada, available anytime by phone or online chat.


🌿 PEPP (Prevention & Early Intervention for Psychosis)

Specialized program supporting youth experiencing early signs of psychosis. Contact CMHA Thames Valley for referral information.



🧠 Adult Mental Health Services

πŸ“ž CMHA Thames Valley – Elgin/St.β€―Thomas

Address: 10 Mondamin St., St.β€―Thomas
Support for ages 12+ including:
βœ” Crisis intervention (walk-in & mobile teams)
βœ” Addiction support
βœ” Counselling & case management
βœ” Housing assistance
Cost: Free


πŸ₯ St.β€―Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH) – Mental Health Services

Address: 189 Elm St., St.β€―Thomas
Inpatient and outpatient mental health support for adults (18+). Includes psychiatric assessment, short-term hospitalization, and therapy.
Cost: OHIP-covered


🌱 West Elgin Community Health Centre

Address: 153 Main St., West Lorne
Free counselling and addiction support for adults living in Dutton-Dunwich & West Elgin. Includes Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM).


πŸ“ž Reach Out – CMHA Crisis Response Line

Call or Text: 519‑433‑2023 or 1‑866‑933‑2023 (24/7)
🌐 Webchat: www.reachout247.ca
Free 24/7 support for mental health and addictions.


☎️ London Distress Centre

Call: 519‑667‑6711 (24/7)
Emotional support for anyone in crisis or experiencing distress.



🚨 Emergency Support

If you or someone you know is at immediate risk of harm, please:
πŸ“ž Call 9‑1‑1 or
πŸ₯ Go to your nearest hospital emergency department.

✨ You don’t have to do this alone. Reaching out for help is a brave first step.