Counselling for anxiety is not “one size fits all”. I cater my approach to you based on your challenges, needs, and personality in an effort to alleviate stress and worries. Instead of using one theory or therapy approach, I combine aspects of them to best suit you. Some of my clinical modalities include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Theory (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Strengths-Based theory, Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Anxiety
Anxiety can feel like an unwelcome companion. Whether it’s an ongoing worry that won’t go away or a sudden wave of panic that leaves you stunned and breathless, anxiety can be a lot to carry. But you don’t have to carry it by yourself. Counselling gives you a space to explore your thoughts and emotions in a safe space. No matter how anxiety shows up in your life, counselling can help you understand the causes of anxiety, find relief within the worry and build coping skills. If this sounds familiar, email me for a free consult to get started.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is when you find yourself worrying excessively and uncontrollably about daily life, events, activities and more. Some common symptoms may look like constantly worrying, trouble concentrating, feeling tense, feeling nauseas or experiencing stomach issues, having trouble sleeping, heart racing, avoiding certain situations and sometimes experiencing panic attacks. Feeling anxious is normal and natural to a certain extent, however, when it feels like it's taking over, out of your control or out of proportion, it's best to find some help.
How Can Online Counselling Help with Anxiety?
Some benefits to online counselling for anxiety include feeling heard and validated within the comfort of your home or a safe and quiet space. Being comfortable and safe is a significant part of counselling, especially when it comes to anxiety. Another benefit of online counselling for anxiety is that you get the opportunity to talk about your experience and emotions in a way that also allows you to process it all. In a fast-paced society, we are so busy from jumping from one thing to another. Online counselling allows you to slow down and take time for yourself within your busy schedule by allowing you flexibility in timing and the convenience of avoiding additional time commuting/driving.
What to Expect in Online Anxiety Counselling
Counselling begins with a free consult in an effort for you to see if I am a good fit for you. It's important to consider the following questions when looking for a counsellor: Do they listen to you and make an effort to understand you? Do you like their style and approach in session? Do they have experience and expertise in working with the challenges or worries you have? Does your availability and their availability match? If you’ve asked yourself these questions after completing a consult and have answered “yes” to them and want to move forward, then we can schedule our first session.
Some people come in with something specific they want to talk about, whereas others prefer to let the conversation flow in whatever direction it takes them. The topic of sessions and frequency of sessions is always up to you, so you choose what suits you best.
Our Approach to Online Anxiety Therapy
Service Areas
Anxiety can be an overwhelming and heavy feeling to manage on your own. Counselling gives you the opportunity to talk about it in a safe space, while finding ways to alleviate the stress of it all. Virtual counselling can be done anywhere at your convenience. Although Sarah Gabriel is based in Mississauga, virtual mental health counselling can be done anywhere – Oakville, Burlington, Brampton, Caledon, Vaughan and other cities.
FAQs
Is online counselling as effective as in-person therapy?
Online counselling can be just as effective as in-person counselling. The benefits of counselling between online and in-person are similar. The only difference is its delivery. Online counselling allows for remote sessions through video calls or phone calls, which provides you with convenience and accessibility. Online counselling also alleviates transportation or distance issues and gives you flexibility in your busy schedule.
What if I'm not comfortable with video calls?
If video calls are not for you, then you can do regular phone calls. Many clients enjoy the convenience of a phone call as they are able to put their earbuds in or headphones on, while sitting in a quiet space.
Is my privacy protected during online counselling sessions?
Of course. As a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, privacy and confidentiality is a priority. Sarah Gabriel is committed to protecting your privacy of your personal information in compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, 2004 (PIPEDA) and the Personal Health Information Protection Act, 2004 (PHIPA).