There are almost as many definitions of counselling (psychotherapy, trauma therapy, psychological counselling) as there are types of therapies used in counselling. Definitions aside, the quintessential element of a positive counselling experience will always be the relationship forged between client and counsellor.
Annette Poechman is a Master’s Level trained therapist with significant experience working with people of all ages. She earned her Master of Education in Counselling in 2000, is a Registered Psychotherapist, a Canadian Certified Counsellor, and a Certified EMDR Therapist. Learn more about Annette Poechman.
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy and personal counselling provide the space to explore issues with a trained professional. By understanding one’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours, new ways of interacting with the world can be cultivated. You’ll develop strategies to better manage life issues, including stress, depression and anxiety, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and trauma.
Safe Space for Psychotherapy, Trauma Therapy, Counselling
Annette provides a safe, non-judgmental, and completely confidential environment for her clients to explore their concerns. Clients tell Annette that she is a great listener, an experienced guide, and shows how much she cares. If you are interested in therapy or trauma therapy, but are unsure if we are a good fit, reach out to book a free 15-minute consultation.
Counselling involves sitting with an impartial, non-biased person like Annette to openly discuss issues or problems that you might be experiencing as a result of current challenges or historical problems. Take a moment to check out Ready, Set, Grow… a resource for answers to life’s most perplexing questions.
Growth and change are always involved in counselling; it can be hard work and sometimes even painful. Personal counselling can simply be about making the unbearable more bearable. It can also be about finding peace and even joy at the end of a long journey.
Want to know more? Book a free 15-minute consultation with Annette today.
Why is Psychotherapy Important?
- Validation: Many people experiencing trauma or other mental health challenges feel misunderstood. Your therapist provides a safe, non-judgmental space where they can recognize the difficulties and provide the tools needed in your recovery.
- Emotional Insight: Therapy helps you understand the thoughts, emotions, and behaviours that influence your mental health. Greater self-awareness empowers you to make healthier choices and create lasting positive change.
- Decreased Emotional Distress: Psychotherapy can reduce stress, anger, and fear. A reduction in emotional distress provides the opportunity to change behaviour, and different behaviour can change your mental health.
- Healthier Coping Skills: A key goal of psychotherapy is to help you develop practical coping skills to manage stress, regulate emotions, and navigate difficult situations with greater confidence.
- Healing from Trauma: An essential element of healing includes letting go and moving past historical traumas. Once you have processed past trauma, you will start to feel differently and make different choices for yourself.
- Stronger Relationships: Often individuals in therapy have challenging relationships with others. Your therapist can help you improve communication, strengthen boundaries, and foster healthier relationships with partners, family members, friends, and colleagues.
What are the Physical Benefits of Psychotherapy?
Beyond mental health, psychotherapy highlights the complex connection between mind and body and can also play a role in your physical well-being. Some physical benefits associated with psychotherapy include pain management, better sleep, reduced stress, enhanced immune function, and better cardio health.
Treatment for PTSD, Complex PTSD (CPTSD), and Trauma
Listening. Guiding. Caring.
