Counselling Modalities
Below is an alphabetical list of many of the specialties that we use in our practice. As always, each client's needs and goals determine the modalities that are used in the therapy space. Consult the About tab to see which practitioners offer which modalities.
Research tells us that the most important factor to finding healing, wellness and change within the counselling process is based upon the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and client. Counselling modalities are the various therapeutic approaches and techniques that support treatment plans.
Our practice at Riverbend Family Counselling is to create custom, tailored treatment plans that are efficient and effective and allow our clients to reach the goals they want so that they can return to living their lives the way they want. As such, we are proud to be trained in a variety of modalities to ensure that we can create a plan that works best for each client.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based therapeutic approach that encourages individuals to embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling overwhelmed by them. ACT focuses on helping clients align their actions with their core values, fostering psychological flexibility and promoting a fulfilling life. By combining acceptance strategies with commitment and behavior-change techniques, ACT helps individuals navigate life's challenges with resilience and purpose.
Art Therapy
Art Therapy is a creative therapeutic approach that uses the process of making and interpreting art to help individuals explore their emotions, express themselves, and resolve inner conflicts. By engaging in artistic activities such as drawing, painting, or sculpting, clients can access and process feelings that might be difficult to articulate through words alone. Art Therapy is effective for individuals of all ages and can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. This approach fosters self-discovery, emotional healing, and personal growth in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Christian-Centred Counselling
Christian-Centred Counselling is available for any clients who wish to integrate it into their therapy sessions. Incorporating Christian beliefs and values into counselling can be powerful for those whose faith plays a key role in their lives and worldview. This approach blends psychological principles, and other modalities listed with the foundations of the Christian faith.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. By addressing distorted thinking and developing healthier coping mechanisms, CBT helps individuals manage a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress. Through structured sessions, clients learn to challenge harmful beliefs, enhance problem-solving skills, and achieve lasting emotional well-being.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a highly structured form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help individuals regulate emotions, manage stress, and improve interpersonal relationships. Developed to treat borderline personality disorder, DBT combines techniques for mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and effective communication. By fostering a balance between acceptance and change, DBT empowers clients to build a life worth living and enhance their overall mental well-being.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. By using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, EMDR helps reframe distressing memories and reduce their emotional impact. This evidence-based therapy is particularly effective for treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related issues, facilitating a path to emotional well-being and resilience.
Family Systems Therapy
Family Systems Therapy is a therapeutic approach that views the family as an interconnected system, where each member's behavior and emotions affect the entire family dynamic. By addressing patterns of interaction and communication within the family, this therapy aims to improve relationships, resolve conflicts, and foster a healthier, more supportive environment. Therapists work collaboratively with family members to identify dysfunctional patterns and develop strategies to enhance understanding, cooperation, and emotional well-being for all members.
Neurofeedback - Dynamical NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback
NeurOptimal® Neurofeedback is a cutting-edge, non-invasive brain training system designed to help your brain function at its best, naturally. Unlike traditional neurofeedback that targets specific symptoms or brainwaves, NeurOptimal uses real-time feedback to mirror your brain's activity back to itself, allowing it to self-correct and optimize without external stimulation or effort. During a session, sensors placed on your scalp and ears monitor brainwave patterns while you relax and listen to music. Subtle interruptions in the sound signal your brain to adjust and reorganize, promoting greater flexibility, resilience and calm. Regardless of what you are facing, NeurOptimal offers a personalized and effortless way to support your brain's natural ability to thrive. NeurOptimal is available to be booked in person, and rental units are available.
Play Therapy
Play Therapy is a therapeutic approach specifically designed to help children express their emotions, resolve conflicts, and develop coping skills through the natural medium of play. By engaging in play activities, children can communicate their thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive environment. Play Therapy is effective in addressing a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and social challenges. Through guided play sessions, children gain insight into their experiences, build self-esteem, and improve their emotional well-being, all while fostering a sense of trust and security.
Sand Tray Therapy
Sand Tray Therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses a sandbox and a variety of miniature figures to help individuals express and explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In a safe and supportive environment, clients create scenes and stories in the sand, which can reveal underlying emotions and conflicts. This non-verbal, creative process is particularly beneficial for children but can also be effective for adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Sand Tray Therapy fosters self-discovery, emotional healing, and personal growth by providing a tangible, visual medium for self-expression and reflection.
Trauma-Focused Therapy
Trauma-Focused Therapy is a specialized therapeutic approach aimed at helping individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. This practice integrates various evidence-based techniques to address the emotional and psychological impact of trauma. By creating a safe and supportive environment, therapists guide clients through the process of confronting and reprocessing traumatic memories, reducing their distressing effects. Trauma-Focused Therapy can be beneficial for individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related issues, empowering them to build resilience and achieve emotional well-being.