How do I choose a treatment provider?

Once you have decided to see a mental health professional, you need to decide whom to choose. It is important that you choose someone that you feel comfortable with and that you feel you will be able to develop a good rapport and working relationship with.

It is important that you trust yourself and use your feelings as a guide. Do you feel understood and respected? Are you being treated with dignity and care? Do you feel supported? Is the therapist non-judgmental? Are you listened to and heard? If not, you have the right to try someone else who might be a better fit for you.

Remember that you have the right to ask questions. You might want to ask about …

  • The kind of psychotherapeutic approach they use and how it works.
  • The professional’s qualifications, training, and experience.
  • What a typical treatment session might be like.
  • What hours the services are available.
  • What the fees are.
  • What you can expect.

How long will treatment take?

Treatment can often bring an immediate sense of relief as you discharge feelings that you have been holding for a long time. However, it is not a quick fix. It takes varying lengths of time to work through what is necessary to experience a lasting internal shift that brings a sense of freedom and clarity. At Dr. Lisa Berger & Associates we believe that you own the process for healing and that you determine for how long you wish to engage in it with a therapist.

It is our experience that even with limited therapy you can move in the direction of greater emotional health. You can begin to learn about the process of healing, and how to listen to and honour yourself. For many people, the therapy process reveals a completely new way of viewing one’s life. In learning and experiencing this process, individuals find a new way of understanding themselves and relating to others. We trust that the skills and knowledge you learn in therapy will allow you to continue with your personal growth and recovery outside of therapy so that you remain free and clear in your life.

Do I need a referral?

In almost all cases a self-referral is appropriate.

How do I make an appointment?

Please contact our office at 905-836-4555 during office hours, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Who do I contact if I am in a crisis in York Region?

Dr. Lisa Berger & Associates does not provide crisis services. If you are in crisis please contact one of the following crisis resources or visit your local hospital.

Community Crisis Response Service (24 hours)

310-2673 (COPE) – Do not dial 905

Domestic Abuse and Sexual Assault Care

905-882-1406 or 1-800-521-6004

Kids Help Phone (24 hrs)

1-800-668-6868

Markham-Stouffville Hospital — Crisis Team

905-472-7556

Pathways for Children

905-471-7877

Southlake Regional Health Centre:
Adult Crisis

905-895-4521 ext. 2666

Child & Adolescent Crisis

905-853-2227

Street Outreach Van

416-274-4972 or 1-866-553-4053

Women’s Support Network of York Region

905-895-3646 or 1-800-263-6734

York Region Children’s Aid Society

905-895-2318 or 1-800-718-3850

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