Barrie Psychotherapist | Witlox Psychotherapy

ABOUT ME

I’m Alissa, the face behind Witlox Psychotherapy.

I understand that life isn’t always what you expect it to be, and it can be messy. At times it can be confusing, hard to navigate, and may leave you feeling alone.

Prior to working as a therapist, I worked as a paramedic where I met many who were at a low point. This is where I began to develop some of the counselling skills that I continue to use today. This is also where I recognized the power of ongoing support for individuals.

Now, as a therapist I continue to be passionate about walking alongside others during challenging times in their lives. Together, we can work towards your goals. Therapy is an act of courage and I feel privileged to partner with clients in their journey.

I hold a Master’s of Divinity in Clinical Counselling from Tyndale University, as well as an Honours Bachelor of Science in Paramedicine from the University of Toronto. I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the CRPO.

SERVICES

I offer both individual therapy as well as family therapy. I have experience working with children, youth, adults, and families.

I use evidence-based practices in my therapeutic approach to meet the unique needs of those I am working with. I have received training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), and Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS). I approach therapy with a trauma informed and strengths-based lens.

I believe that everyone has strengths within them and the ability to create change. I draw on and highlight one’s strengths while providing tools, when necessary, to empower clients to overcome the challenges they are facing. I strive to make therapy welcoming, comfortable, safe, and adaptive to the unique needs of each client.

INDIVIDUAL THERAPY

anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem/self-confidence, stress, parenting challenges, relationship issues, anger, boundaries, grief, life transitions

FAMILY THERAPY

managing expectations, communication, conflict, boundaries, co-parenting, life transitions, separation/divorce/blended families, coping strategies

WHAT TO EXPECT

Before We Meet

Reaching out can often be intimidating and may cause feelings of nervousness. It is a big step. One of my goals as a therapist is to make this process comfortable for you.

I believe that for therapy to be effective it is important to find the right therapist that fits you and your personal style. For this reason, I provide a no obligation 15-minute phone consultation where we can discuss your goals for therapy and assess if working with me may be right for you.

Prior to your first session, I will provide an electronic intake form for you to complete. Other than this, there is nothing special you need to do to prepare for your first session.

First Session

Therapy sessions are typically 50 minutes. During our first appointment, we will start by going through a consent form together, which will cover things such as the risks and benefits of therapy as well as the limits of confidentiality.

We typically spend the rest of the first session getting to know each other. I will ask you several questions to learn more about your story and experiences. You will have opportunities to ask me questions as well. We will chat about your goals, talking about what you hope to achieve by coming to therapy, and how we will know these goals have been achieved. We will also talk about a treatment plan – what therapeutic approach will fit for you and your goals.

Sessions are $155 inclusive of HST. I accept payment by cash, cheque, or e-transfer. I will then provide you a receipt that you can submit to your extended health plan for reimbursement if you have coverage. Please note that I do not submit invoices to extended health plans.

Subsequent Sessions

The quantity and frequency of therapy sessions varies between clients and can be influenced by many different factors. Often for clients, sessions may be more frequent at the start of services and become less frequent as goals are achieved.

Typically, sessions involve working through our treatment plan towards the set goals. During sessions I will check in to make sure we are on the right track for what you want to work on. Sometimes, things come up that require more immediate attention than what we had planned to work on.

+1 (647) 464-2567

alissa@witloxpsychotherapy.ca

11 Ferris Lane Unit 302, Barrie ON
(Shared space with Turner Counselling)