(437) 918-9370 4711 Yonge Street, North York, Toronto, ON M2N 6K8

Therapy Modalities

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented approach that helps individuals understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. CBT targets unhelpful thinking patterns and teaches practical strategies to replace them with healthier, more productive thoughts. This therapy is highly effective for managing anxiety, depression, stress, and more, promoting positive changes in behavior and emotional responses.


Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices to help individuals manage intense emotions and improve interpersonal relationships. DBT focuses on four key areas: mindfulness (staying present), emotional regulation (managing emotions), distress tolerance (coping with difficult emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (improving communication). This approach is especially beneficial for individuals with mood disorders, borderline personality disorder, or those struggling with self-harm or suicidal thoughts.


Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to accept difficult thoughts and emotions rather than avoid them. ACT integrates mindfulness and helps individuals focus on their values, leading to greater psychological flexibility. It is particularly useful for those dealing with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and other conditions, as it empowers individuals to make healthier choices even in the face of discomfort.


Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a structured approach primarily used for couples and families to strengthen emotional bonds and improve communication. EFT helps individuals understand emotional responses and attachment patterns, fostering clearer expression of needs and feelings. This modality has been shown to be effective in resolving conflicts, rebuilding trust, and improving emotional intimacy between partners or family members.


Solution-Focused Therapy

Solution-Focused Therapy is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that focuses on identifying solutions rather than dwelling on past problems. This therapy emphasizes client strengths and resources, empowering individuals to solve specific challenges efficiently. Solution-Focused Therapy is ideal for addressing work-related stress, relationship conflicts, personal goals, and other concerns, offering quick, effective pathways to change.


Strength-Based Therapy

Strength-Based Therapy focuses on leveraging an individual’s existing strengths rather than dwelling on weaknesses. This approach promotes resilience and enhances self-esteem by helping clients recognize and utilize their personal resources. It is beneficial for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, and more, fostering a positive, empowering perspective on personal growth.


Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness-Based Therapy integrates mindfulness practices to help individuals stay present and aware of their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This therapy promotes emotional regulation and stress reduction by encouraging individuals to observe their experiences rather than react impulsively. It is particularly effective for managing anxiety, depression, and chronic pain by fostering calmness and clarity in daily life.


Trauma-Informed Approach

The Trauma-Informed Approach emphasizes creating a safe and supportive environment for individuals who have experienced trauma. By understanding the impact of trauma on both the mind and body, therapists can help clients rebuild a sense of control and trust. This approach is especially important for individuals recovering from abuse, violence, or other traumatic experiences, providing a framework for healing and empowerment.


Motivational Interviewing

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative, person-centered approach that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about making positive changes. It is commonly used for clients struggling with addiction, health behaviors, or lifestyle changes. Motivational Interviewing enhances intrinsic motivation by focusing on personal goals and values, helping individuals commit to lasting change.

Conflict Resolution Therapy

Conflict Resolution Therapy focuses on helping individuals and couples navigate recurring disagreements by identifying underlying issues and fostering collaborative problem-solving skills. This approach emphasizes open communication, empathy, and the development of practical strategies to address and resolve conflicts effectively. It is particularly useful for couples, families, and professional relationships, creating a path toward healthier interactions and mutual understanding.


Attachment-Based Therapy

Attachment-Based Therapy explores how early attachment experiences influence current relationships. By examining attachment patterns, individuals and couples can better understand their emotional needs and responses. This therapy fosters secure connections, builds trust, and enhances emotional intimacy. It is especially effective for addressing relationship challenges, parenting concerns, and emotional disconnection in couples or families.


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In Person & Virtual Appointments

Ocean Blue Therapy provides in-person psychotherapy in North York, easily accessible by public transit, and virtual therapy for clients across Ontario.

Daytime, Evening & Weekend Availability

Our therapists offer flexible scheduling to fit your busy schedule.

Culturally inclusive

We provide culturally inclusive therapy, embracing diverse backgrounds and creating a safe space.

How Therapy at Ocean Blue Works

Free Consultation

During the free 15 minutes consultation, we discuss your concerns, answer questions, and explore how therapy can help. At Ocean Blue Therapy, we see your journey as setting sail. Whether the waters are calm or stormy, we provide a safe, judgment-free space for support and understanding

Personalized Planning

We will work together to map out a personalized path that fits your needs and helps you navigate the challenges you’re facing

Ongoing Support

As we navigate this journey, we will check in regularly to make sure you’re heading in the right directions. Like adjusting sails to the wind, we will adapt the treatment plan as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are feeling overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or navigating life transitions, therapy can be a supportive space to help you feel more grounded. Whether you are dealing with trauma or seeking help to manage difficult emotions, therapy offers a safe place to explore your feelings and experience personal growth. It is perfectly okay to seek support—it is an important part of taking care of yourself.

Your first session is an opportunity to share your story. We will discuss your background, the concerns currently on your mind, and what you hope to achieve through therapy. It is a time for you to get comfortable and for us to start building a connection. This session is all about understanding how we can support you moving forward, at a pace that feels right for you.

The length of therapy depends on your personal needs and goals. Some people find that short-term therapy is helpful for addressing specific concerns, while others benefit from long-term therapy for deeper self-exploration and growth. We will work together to ensure therapy is as helpful as possible for your unique journey.

Therapy is a deeply personal journey, and we believe it should be tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. At Ocean Blue Therapy, we are committed to connecting you with a therapist and approach that feels like the right fit for you. We understand how important it is to feel comfortable and supported in this process, which is why we offer a free 15-minute consultation with each of our therapists. During this time, you can ask any questions you may have and share your concerns, so we can ensure the care you receive is focused on what matters most to you. We're here to help you feel heard, understood, and supported every step of the way.

We kindly request payment at the time of your session. Afterward, we will provide you with a receipt, which you can easily submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement. For your convenience, we accept cash, credit cards, and e-transfers. If you prefer to pay via e-transfer, you can send it to info@oceanbluetherapy.ca. We want to make this process as smooth and comfortable for you as possible.

Insurance coverage can vary, and we understand how confusing it can be to navigate. Unfortunately, OHIP does not cover psychotherapy services, so most of our clients either pay out-of-pocket or use their private insurance. If you have insurance coverage or benefits, it’s important to confirm with your provider whether your policy covers the services provided by your clinician’s specific license—whether that’s a Registered Psychotherapist (R.P.), Social Worker (R.S.W.), or Psychologist (C.Psych. or C.Psych. Assoc.). We’re happy to assist you in any way we can to ensure your therapy journey is as smooth as possible. Feel free to reach out with any questions!

Contact Ocean Blue Therapy

At Ocean Blue Therapy, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Have questions or ready to book a session?

Just send us a message—your story matters.

Ready to take the first step
towards a better version of yourself?

Contact an Ocean Blue therapist right now