REGISTERED PSYCHOTHERAPY
Philosophy
Registered Psychotherapists utilize talk-based therapy to help people improve and maintain their mental health and wellbeing. Psychotherapy is when a helper (the Registered Psychotherapist) and a client develop a therapeutic relationship with the purpose of helping create change in the client’s thinking, emotions, behaviour, or social functioning. At Evolve, our philosophy is to treat the whole person and to address the root cause of a problem, which leads to better health outcomes.
What do we treat?
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Depression
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Anxiety
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Stress & Burnout
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Self-Esteem Issues
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Personality Disorders
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Life Transitions
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Grief
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Substance Use
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Self-Harm
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Suicidality
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Relationship Issues
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And more – just ask!
My approach is holistic and integrative, meaning that I utilize techniques from a wide array of therapeutic modalities. These include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioural therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and client-centred therapy. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, so you can expect a treatment plan that will be tailored to your needs and goals.
My therapeutic approach focuses on the experience of living and being human. I combine lived and professional experience to support individuals manage their mental and emotional health. My practice is informed largely by Gestalt Therapy – focus on the present and the importance of the therapist-client relationship. I seek to be trauma-informed and maintain an anti-oppressive practice; and I am always learning.
Kara Leah Gonty
Registered Social Worker
I am a Registered Social Worker & Canadian Certified Counsellor with a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. My therapeutic style is eclectic, using a client-centered, strengths-based approach, rooted in positive psychology.
Within our therapeutic relationship, you have an affirming space to explore your emotions and be empowered to decide how to respond. The space and time shared will be a safe harbor where you can drop your anchor to share and express. My therapeutic style is eclectic using a client-centered, strengths-based approach rooted in positive psychology. I use methods to ensure clients feel empowered and in control of the counselling process.
When I am not journeying alongside my clients, you can find me spending time with my adolescent son and my Schnoodle dog named Joci. I practice self-care by attending Pilates, reading, and attending various classes as such Spanish language class or singing lessons. I value balance in my life and encourage my clients to do the same by connecting, healing and authentically living their life with an enthusiastic sense of well-being.
How we do what we do
After your initial assessment, your therapist will work to create a tailored treatment plan that takes into account the issue(s) you are facing, your context, personality, and more. At Evolve, we implement evidence-based practice, which means that we consider what the current literature suggests is the best approach for the problem you are facing. Importantly, we utilize an integrative approach which incorporates techniques from a wide array of therapeutic modalities, because one size does not fit all.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the gold standard treatment for depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and other disorders. With CBT, we work collaboratively to help you understand the interrelatedness between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviour. We will utilize various techniques to help target ineffective cognitions, so you can break free from the vicious cycle.
Solutions-Focused Therapy (SFT)
SFT is a strengths-based and goal-directed approach that helps you capitalize on the skills you already have to address the current problem. We work together to develop awareness of these strengths and create realistic solutions.
Humanistic Therapy
This is a holistic approach which considers the uniqueness of each person. It is particularly helpful for people who are trying to find their true potential, searching for deeper meaning, or those who feel like something is missing. Your therapist will provide a safe, supportive, and empathetic atmosphere so you can explore.
Client-Centred Therapy
A client-centred approach emphasizes the importance of the client being the expert. Your therapist will help guide you by providing the resources, techniques, and compassionate environment you need to grow and create lasting change.