Frequently Asked Questions
What is therapy and how can it help me?
Therapy is a safe and private space where you can talk about your thoughts and feelings with a trained professional. At Gowthorpe Therapists, we help you understand yourself better, manage emotions, and heal from painful experiences. Therapy can improve your relationships and help you live with more peace and confidence.
How do I know if I need therapy?
You might benefit from therapy if you often feel anxious, sad, angry, or stuck. You may notice that your sleep, focus, or relationships are suffering. Many people seek therapy when they’re tired of coping alone. You don’t need to wait for things to get worse — reaching out early can make a big difference.
How to take care of myself mentally?
You can start by talking about your feelings instead of keeping them inside. Spend time with people who make you feel safe and supported. Be gentle with yourself when things feel hard—you don’t need to have everything figured out. And if you’re struggling, reaching out to a therapist can help you understand what you’re feeling and find healthy ways to cope.
How long will therapy take?
Everyone’s healing process is different. Some people start to feel better after a few sessions, while others may need longer-term support. Your therapist will check in with you regularly to make sure the approach is working and that you’re moving toward your goals.
Does therapy really work?
Yes. Research shows that therapy can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. The key is finding the right therapist and approach for you. At Gowthorpe Therapists, we use proven methods that help clients make real, lasting changes in how they think, feel, and live.
What is trauma-informed care?
Being trauma-informed means understanding how painful or frightening experiences can affect your mind and body. It also means creating a space where you feel safe, seen, and never judged. Our therapists are trained to recognize signs of trauma and to help you heal at your own pace — with compassion and care.
How much does therapy cost?
Therapy costs vary depending on the type of session, service, and the therapist’s qualifications. Our team will provide clear information about fees before your first appointment. We also issue receipts that can be submitted to insurance providers for reimbursement. If cost is a concern, ask us about options to make therapy more accessible.
Can I do therapy online?
Yes. Gowthorpe Therapists offers virtual therapy sessions for your comfort and convenience. You can meet your therapist through a secure video platform from anywhere in Ontario and select provinces. Even clients who have done in-person therapy, enjoy online therapy and find it as effective as coming to the office. You get to stay where you are, have your favorite coffee and we come to you!
Why is mental health important in everyday life?
Your mental health shapes how you handle stress, make decisions, and connect with others. When your mind is cared for, it’s easier to focus and enjoy the things that matter to you. But when your mental health is ignored, even simple tasks can start to feel heavy. Taking care of your emotional well-being helps you build strength from the inside out—it supports healthy relationships, better sleep, and a greater sense of peace.
Can therapy help with trauma and PTSD?
Yes. Many of our clients come to us after experiencing trauma or PTSD. We use safe, proven approaches like EMDR, CBT, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy to help you process painful memories and rebuild a sense of calm and safety. Healing takes time, but it is always possible.
What is Self-Nurturing Therapy (SNT)?
Self-Nurturing Therapy™ (SNT) is a gentle, structured way to heal from complex trauma. Created by Dr. Julie Gowthorpe, RSW, it helps you move from pain and fear to confidence and self-love. Through a three-step process, you learn how to understand and care for your inner child — the part of you that still carries old wounds. SNT combines proven methods like Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Attachment Therapy to help you build safety, trust, and emotional strength.
What is a Custody and Access Assessment?
This assessment helps determine parenting arrangements that best support a child’s well-being. It includes interviews with parents, children, relatives, and professionals such as teachers or doctors, along with observations of parent–child interactions.
After gathering information, the assessor holds a disclosure meeting with the parents and/or lawyers to share findings and recommendations. These are typically presented as a parenting plan to help resolve disputes. If needed, a detailed report can be submitted to assist the court in deciding custody and access.
Do you offer therapy for children, teens, adults, and seniors?
Yes. At Gowthorpe Therapists, we care for people of all ages and stages — from young children to older adults. Each plan is personalized, so you and your family receive the kind of care that fits your unique needs.
What causes bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder doesn’t have one single cause. It’s usually the result of a mix of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Some people may have a family history of mood disorders, which can increase the chance of developing it.
What if I’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t help?
That’s okay — many people feel this way. The truth is, therapy works best when it feels safe and fits your needs. Our approach is gentle, trauma-informed, and rooted in compassion. We take the time to understand your story and work with you at your pace.
How do I contact Gowthorpe Therapists?
You can reach us through our website’s Contact Form, by phone, or by visiting our office in person. Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself, a loved one, or a referral for your organization, our team is here to help.