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Sunday, November 17, 2024

Is Therapy Covered by OHIP?

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If you’re here, you’re probably wondering whether psychotherapy and counselling are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

You can look no further! We wrote this article to provide you all the details and information you need to understand OHIP coverages.

Therapy Services Covered by OHIP

OHIP provides coverage for certain mental health services, depending on the professional credentials. Some mental health services are included under OHIP but others require private insurance or paying out of pocket. 

Let’s look at what professionals are covered under OHIP. 

Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are physicians who focus on diagnosing and providing mental health treatment. Psychiatrist services are fully covered by OHIP. 

At Get Reconnected Psychotherapy Services, we’ve teamed up with Psychotherapy Matters, a platform that brings therapists and psychiatrists together to provide you with better support.

Book a Free Consultation with us if you are interested for more information on our collaboration with Psychotherapy Matters.

Book Consult

Family Doctors with Psychotherapy Training

There are some family physicians who received specialized training in psychotherapy. If your family doctor provides psychotherapy services, then the services would fall under OHIP coverage. 

Check with your family doctor whether they are part of a Family Health Team (FHT). FHTs offer integrated mental health services, including psychotherapy and counselling.

Mental Health Support in Public Institutions

If you are seeking therapy and counselling services through a psychotherapist, psychologist or social worker in a public funded setting such as a hospital, school, or community health centers, then these services may be included under OHIP. 

Mental health support in these programs typically focus on short-term treatment or targeted interventions for specific issues. 

Therapy Services Not Covered by OHIP

Mental health professionals working in private practice (i.e., psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers) are not covered by OHIP. 

If you are looking for support from these professionals, you will need to cover the cost out of pocket or rely on the insurance benefit plans from your employer.

Affordable Alternatives to Private Therapy

If you are struggling financially and do not have access to insurance benefits coverage, there are several affordable options available. 

In Ontario, access to free or low-cost psychotherapy depends on several factors, including your location, income, and personal circumstances. If you’re looking for support, here are some options to consider:

  • Workplace Support Programs: Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) as part of their benefits. These programs often provide free or reduced-cost counseling services for both employees and their families.

 

  • Government Assistance Programs: Programs like the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Ontario Works may help cover psychotherapy costs for those who qualify. These options are designed to assist individuals facing financial or disability-related challenges.

 

  • Community-Based Clinics: Free or low-cost mental health services may be available through community health centers, local hospitals, or outreach clinics. These resources often focus on providing accessible care to underserved populations.

 

Services and resources can differ greatly depending on where you live and the funding available in your region. It’s important to explore what’s offered in your local community to find the most suitable support.

 

The Affordable Therapy Program at Get Reconnected

Get Reconnected Psychotherapy Services offers an affordable therapy program, making quality therapy and counselling accessible to individuals across Ontario. 

We offer rates as low as $25 per session offered by intern therapists. Our intern therapists have completed their 2-year Master Level Education and are currently enrolled in an 8-month practicum. Reach out to us for more information or to book a free 15-minute consultation.

 

Considerations When Choosing Therapy

When deciding on the type of therapy to pursue, consider these factors:

  • Wait Times: Services covered by OHIP can have long waitlists, especially for psychiatrists or mental health support from public institution programs.

 

  • Budget: There are different therapy options available, from affordable (low-cost) or sliding scales programs like our affordable therapy program that can help make it more manageable.

 

  • Type of Support: Determine whether you need talk therapy, medication, or both. A consultation with a psychiatrist or family doctor can steer you in the right direction. We also offer psychiatrist consultations through our psychotherapy services. 

 

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your mental health is a priority, but the cost of therapy can sometimes feel like a barrier. 

Don’t hesitate to explore your options or reach out for guidance—we’re here to help you take that first step.



source https://getreconnected.ca/is-therapy-covered-by-ohip/

Friday, November 8, 2024

Understanding Attachment Styles: What They Are and Why They Matter

Have you ever wondered why some relationships feel safer from the get-go than others? Or even why some of the people you dated in the past weren’t as compatible with you as you thought?

This is largely due to the type of care you received in your early years and how it shapes attachment styles, which are patterns of behaviour and emotional responses that affect our relationships.

Origins of Attachment Theory

Attachment Theory, studied by British psychiatrist John Bowlby and psychologist Mary Ainsworth, examines how the bonds we form in early childhood influence our ability to connect with others throughout life.

Bowlby believed that our first relationships, especially with caregivers, are a blueprint that sets the tone for how secure, trusting, or anxious we might feel in later relationships.

Mary Ainsworth took this further with her “Strange Situation” study, where she watched how infants reacted when their caregiver briefly left the room. Through these reactions, she uncovered different attachment styles that reflect how safe or unsettled the child feels.

Our early experiences teach us what to expect from others—whether relationships will feel like a safe haven or something a bit more uncertain. These early bonds give shape to how we navigate intimacy, trust, and closeness as we grow.

The 4 Attachment Styles

Bowlby’s studies suggested that the attachment system essentially “asks” a core question: Is the caregiver close by, accessible, and attentive?

If the child senses that the answer is “yes,” they feel loved, secure, and confident, and are more likely to explore their surroundings, engage in play, and socialize with others.

This translates later on in our relationships with close ones, whether they are bonds with siblings, romantic partners or relationships that make up our sense of trust and safety.

A man and woman joyfully hold hands symbolizing unity and connection in a vibrant setting.

Let’s explore the four attachment styles and look at the traits of each one:

Secure Attachment Style

Imagine a friend who feels right at home in their relationships—they’re open, trusting, and don’t mind giving their partner or friends space when they need it. Someone with a secure attachment says “I’m here for you, but I’m also good on my own”. This balance lets them enjoy closeness without fear or worry.

People with a secure attachment are usually good at balancing closeness and independence. For example, if their partner or friend needs some time alone, they don’t take it personally or worry about losing that connection. They know that time apart doesn’t mean the relationship is any less meaningful. They’re comfortable giving and receiving affection without feeling clingy or distant. This security lets them handle disagreements or misunderstandings calmly because they trust the strength of the relationship.

Secure attachment is about trust, open communication, and a deep sense of connection that isn’t shaken by time apart or life’s ups and downs. People with this attachment style see relationships as safe spaces where they can be themselves and let others do the same, leading to balanced and resilient bonds.

a sad woman touching her head with her hand

Anxious Attachment Style

Think of someone who wears their heart on their sleeve. They value closeness and are often sensitive to any hint of distance. When they don’t hear back from a loved one, they might start to worry: “Did I say something wrong? Are they upset?” Someone with an anxious attachment style may feel like they’re always wondering if others care as much as they do—and it’s hard to shake that feeling.

They might check their phone a lot, wonder about past conversations, or even feel a bit jealous. It’s like a constant need to make sure everything is still good in their relationships.

In social or work settings, distance from others can lead them to feel left out or rejected, even if nothing is actually wrong. This can cause them to feel worried and crave reassurance.

a man and woman standing on a track

Avoidant Attachment Style

People with an avoidant attachment style often like their independence and can feel uneasy when relationships start to get too close or intense. For them, a bit of distance feels safer and helps them stay calm. But when someone tries to get closer—whether it’s a friend, family member, or partner—they may start to feel anxious or uncomfortable. This can lead them to pull back or act distant, even if they do care about the other person.

For example, imagine someone who’s dating but suddenly stops replying as much or avoids deep conversations when things get serious. They might do this because they’re starting to feel overwhelmed by how close the relationship is getting.

a woman looking through a hole in orange paper wall

Disorganized Attachment Style

People with a disorganized attachment style often feel conflicted in relationships, like they’re caught in a back-and-forth between wanting closeness and feeling the need to pull away. One moment, they might crave connection and feel comforted by someone’s presence, but as soon as things get too close, they might start to feel anxious or uncertain, wondering if it’s truly safe to trust. This push-pull feeling can make relationships feel intense and unpredictable.

This attachment style often develops from past experiences where caregiving was inconsistent or even confusing, mixing love with moments of fear or uncertainty.

Disorganized attachment isn’t as simple as being either anxious or avoidant; instead, it’s a mix that can shift depending on the situation.

We all have parts of each attachment style in us, but people with disorganized attachment may feel like they’re constantly switching between different needs. It’s helpful to notice where you feel most comfortable—your “natural home”—so you can understand your reactions better and find more stability in relationships.

Each attachment style reflects our need to feel safe, loved, and understood in relationships. About half of people have a secure attachment, but it’s common to show traits from more than one style.

Secure people may still feel anxiety at times, and those with avoidant or disorganized attachments can experience both closeness and caution.

Why Attachment Styles Matter

Self-Discovery and Self-Awareness

Understanding your attachment style can be a powerful tool for personal growth. It’s like getting a clearer picture of the emotional patterns that show up in your relationships. For someone with an anxious attachment style, learning self-soothing techniques can help calm those worries.

If you have an avoidant or disorganized attachment style, it’s essential to notice triggers and patterns—paying attention to what’s happening internally and identifying the kinds of thoughts that arise. This awareness can deepen your understanding of your feelings and emotions, leading to healthier relationships.

Better Together

When we understand our own and our partner’s styles, it fosters empathy and open communication.

A securely attached partner can reassure an anxious one, helping to ease anxiety, while avoidantly attached individuals can learn to share their needs better.

This mutual understanding can strengthen relationships, making both partners feel more supported and seen.

How Attachment Styles Impact Relationships

As you can imagine, attachment styles are a handy framework to guide us to think deeply about how our attachment tendencies show up in relationships.

Friendships and Family

Securely attached folks tend to feel at ease in their social lives. They trust others, can set boundaries and don’t mind leaning on friends or family when things get tough; they’re there for others in the same way. People with an anxious attachment style, on the other hand, often crave reassurance, which can spill over into friendships. They might sometimes feel left out or a bit too invested, which can make social situations tricky. Those with avoidant attachment might keep a bit of distance even with family and close friends.

Romantic Relationships

Attachment styles play a big role in how people approach intimacy, communication, and conflict in romantic relationships.

According to researchers Hazan and Shaver, the bond between romantic partners actually operates on the same attachment system that shapes the bond between infants and caregivers. Just like a child feels safe with a responsive caregiver, adults feel more secure and open to exploring the world when they have a caring, reliable partner.

Adults with anxious attachment styles often crave closeness but might worry their partner doesn’t feel the same, leading to worry and sensitivity to signs of distance. Avoidantly attached adults might struggle with intimacy, keeping their independence by steering clear of vulnerability.

Professional Relationships

Attachment styles even extend to our work lives, influencing how we navigate teamwork, leadership, and workplace relationships. If you are securely attached, then you are more comfortable with collaboration, open communication, and handling feedback.

An anxious attachment style can lead people to worry about approval from coworkers or supervisors, making you sensitive to criticism or prone to seeking reassurance.

For someone with a disorganized attachment style, navigating work relationships can feel confusing or even stressful. They may experience a push-and-pull between wanting connection with colleagues and feeling mistrustful or anxious about being vulnerable.

Understanding attachment can be valuable for workplace teams to create a work environment where everyone’s strengths are acknowledged and encouraged.

a woman leaning on a table with her head on her hands

What’s Your Attachment Style?

It’s not easy to always know what our unique attachment style is as we are all multifaceted and dynamic humans who change depending on our environment, context, history and past. The great thing is that learning about your attachment style is a great place to start as it will prime you to take notice of your relational moments and how they affect you.

Here is a summary and some prompts to help you assess your dominant attachment style(s):

Secure Attachment: You feel comfortable with intimacy, handle conflict well, and trust that your loved ones will be there for you.

Anxious Attachment: You often seek reassurance, worry about your relationships, and feel insecure when your partner is unavailable.

Avoidant Attachment: You tend to keep a distance in relationships and may withdraw during conflicts.

Disorganized Attachment: You experience a mix of wanting closeness and pulling away.

Consider these questions to help identify your style:

  • How do you react during conflicts with loved ones?
  • Do you seek validation or reassurance from friends and partners?
  • How comfortable do you feel with emotional closeness?

Do you tend to be anxious when you’re not close, do you tend to be anxious if you are too close and trying to pull away, do you move a lot between those places, or is there a general sense of feeling secure and calm?

Attachment Style Quiz

Another way to get to know your attachment style is to consider taking an attachment style assessment online or this Attachment Style Questionnaire (takes 5 to 10 minutes) for deeper insights.

Key Takeaways

Understanding attachment styles is crucial because they fundamentally shape how we connect with others throughout our lives.
Our early experiences influence our ability to build trust, communicate, and navigate conflicts, impacting the quality of our relationships with partners, friends, and even in professional settings.



source https://getreconnected.ca/understanding-attachment-styles/

Monday, October 28, 2024

October 2024 Get Reconnected Newsletter – Insights on Anxiety

We are happy to announce the start of our monthly newsletter, where we will be sending you interesting information and newest research in mental health.

This month, we’re sharing some intriguing research on how anxiety changes the way our brain works.

We’d love to discuss how these insights might relate to your experience and how we can support you.

Neuroimaging Study Reveals Different Brain Mechanisms in Anxious vs. Non-Anxious Individuals

Scientists have found that people with anxiety use their brains differently than those who don’t have anxiety. In anxious individuals, a part of the brain responsible for decision-making (the frontopolar cortex) is more active and strongly connected to the amygdala, the part of the brain that controls emotions like fear. This explains why anxious people may find it harder to stay calm in stressful situations. Understanding this could help create better treatments for anxiety in the future.

Read the Article Here

New findings reveal how emotion enhances memory for contextual details

Scientists have found that when we feel strong emotions, it helps us remember details around those events more clearly. For example, if something exciting or scary happens, we’re more likely to remember not just the event but also the small things around it, like where we were or who was there. This helps us learn from our experiences and make better decisions in the future. It also shows why emotional memories are so powerful and can help us understand how to use emotions to improve learning or recall important information in daily life. This happens because our brain is wired to focus more during emotional moments, which can explain why emotional memories often feel so clear.

Read the Article Here

Differences between stress and anxiety

anxiety-stress-tell-them-apart

In our blog, we explain how anxiety and stress are different, though they often feel the same. Stress usually comes from external pressures and tends to be short-lived, while anxiety can linger even after those pressures have passed. We outline the symptoms of each and offer practical strategies like mindfulness and relaxation techniques to help manage both. By understanding the differences, we can better address what we’re going through and take steps toward feeling better.

For more details, check out the full blog here.

 

About GR & Services + Team

At Get Reconnected Psychotherapy Services, we provide virtual mental health care to individuals across Ontario. Founded by Delia Petrescu, the clinic offers evidence-based therapy for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, body image issues, burnout, infertility stress, relationship challenges, grief, phobias, ADHD, borderline personality disorder, among others. In addition to therapy, we offer comprehensive psychological and diagnostic assessments to help clients better understand their mental health needs. With our virtual model, clients can access care from the comfort of their homes, ensuring flexible and accessible support no matter where they are in the province.

 



source https://getreconnected.ca/newsletter-october-2024-insights-on-anxiety/

Sunday, October 13, 2024

The Neurobiology of Burnout: How Chronic Stress Physically Changes the Brain

The Neurobiology of Burnout: How Chronic Stress Physically Changes the Brain

The Neurobiology of Burnout: How Chronic Stress Physically Changes the Brain

Picture of Delia Petrescu

Delia Petrescu

Founder & Director
BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (RP)

Delia Petrescu, MA, RP is a Toronto-based psychotherapist, psychometrist, and the founder of Get Reconnected Psychotherapy and Counselling Services. She provides virtual therapy sessions Ontario-wide. Delia has experience working with adults struggling with adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, and trauma. She specializes in integrative and holistic care for those coping with life crises such as fertility concerns. Read more about Delia

Read more blogs on this topic:
Picture of Delia Petrescu

Delia Petrescu

Founder & Director
BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (RP)

Delia Petrescu, MA, RP is a Toronto-based psychotherapist, psychometrist, and the founder of Get Reconnected Psychotherapy and Counselling Services. She provides virtual therapy sessions Ontario-wide. Delia has experience working with adults struggling with adjustment difficulties, depression, anxiety, and trauma. She specializes in integrative and holistic care for those coping with life crises such as fertility concerns. Read more about Delia

Read more blogs on this topic:


source https://getreconnected.ca/how-burnout-physically-changes-the-brain/

Monday, July 15, 2024

Preparing For Your Therapy Consultation: 6 Tips

Tips on What to Look For in A Free Consultation

Looking for a therapist can be nerve wrecking because you might be struggling with something, looking for guidance or wanting to learn more about yourself. Searching for the right therapist can feel intimidating.

In doing so, you want to find someone who can help you achieve your therapy session goals. Not only is finding someone capable of helping essential, but also feeling comfortable with them, which is often referred to as “being a good fit” or in other words a good match. 

In this blog, we’ll address what to expect in a psychotherapy initial consultation so you know what to look for going in. Whether you are new to therapy or you’ve been in therapy before, it can be helpful to have a refresher on what to expect and what to look for when seeking counsel.

A woman sitting at a desk with a laptop and computer screen.

What to Expect in a Therapy Consultation

Keep in mind that a brief initial consultation is a two-way street. The therapist is looking to hear about your struggles or what you hope to accomplish in therapy to determine if they can help. For you, the goal is to find out if you feel comfortable or if you “click” with the therapist and also if they have the knowledge and experience to help you. 

Once you decide on a therapist to have a brief consultation, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, some therapists offer both video and phone consultations, based on their preference or the prospective client’s preference.

What to Look For In a Therapist and Things to Consider

A magnifying glass examines a group of people with a wooden stick.

Here are a few things to look for:

  1. Credentials and Experience

Ask the therapist for relevant information, including credentials, experience, especially experience related to the current struggle you want to address. Ensure the therapist has the proper qualifications and a solid understanding in dealing with issues similar to yours. 

  1. Communication Style

Pay attention to how the therapist communicates. Do they use language you can understand? Are they clear and straightforward? Good communication is key to a successful therapeutic relationship. 

  1. Rapport and Comfort Level

Notice how you feel during the consultation. Do you feel heard and understood? Do you feel comfortable talking to the therapist? If you feel comfortable, the therapist may be a better fit for you. If not, it’s okay to continue your search. 

  1. Approach and Techniques 

Ask about the therapist’s approach and the techniques they use. Different therapists use different methods that might involve either homework between sessions or doing exercises in the session. Make sure that their methods align with what you are looking for.

  1. Availability and Accessibility 

Inquire about the therapist’s availability. Are they able to accommodate your schedule? Also, consider their location if you prefer in-person sessions, or check their availability for online sessions if that suits you better.

  1. Questions You May Want to Ask 

Prepare a list of questions you want to ask the therapist. This can help you determine if they are the right fit for you and your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask about their approach, experience, and how they plan to help you achieve your goals. 

Takeaway

Finding the right therapist can be challenging, but knowing what to look for can make the process smoother. Focus on how they communicate and their approach to therapy. Pay attention to how you feel while talking to the therapist and afterwards. Feeling comfortable and understood is important. These things will help you choose the right therapist for your needs. 

Get Reconnected Psychotherapy Services offers a team of therapists with different approaches and communication styles to suit your needs. We provide both phone and video consultations, making it easy and convenient for you to find the right therapist.

Reach out to us to book a free consult!



source https://getreconnected.ca/preparing-for-your-therapy-consultation-6-tips/

Sunday, July 14, 2024

Two-Week Wait After IVF: 13 Tips To Survive the Toughest Part of Fertility Treatments

A woman sitting on a rock, appearing distressed as she rests her head in her hands.

If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a while and recently went through IVF, you know that waiting to find out if it worked can be really tough. Those two weeks between the embryo transfer and finding out if you’re pregnant feel like they drag on forever. 

In this blog we’ll talk about what makes the two week wait so tough and then we’ll discuss some tips and strategies on how to survive this part of the process.

What Happens Following Embryo Transfer

The fertility treatment process has many steps to help you get pregnant through IVF treatment. First, you might be prescribed hormones like progesterone and estrogen to get your uterus ready for the embryo. After a frozen embryo transfer, there’s a waiting period where you might feel cramps or light bleeding.

At the point of the two week wait, you will check your HCG level with a blood test to see if you are pregnant and to make sure it’s not a false positive.

What Makes the Two Week Wait So Hard after IVF and Embryo Transfer?

The hardest part of IVF is not only the waiting but the not knowing. You become hyper-aware of every little thing your body does because you’re hoping for any sign of embryo implantation.

It’s natural to search online for signs and symptoms, wondering, “am I pregnant?” but sometimes, this can make you feel even more anxious. The days following the transfer are one of the most difficult periods, as every twinge or contraction you may feel like a sign.This uterine activity can cause stress and anxiety, making the wait even harder to bear. According to research studies, this waiting period was rated as one of the toughest parts of the whole IVF process.



source https://getreconnected.ca/two-week-wait-after-ivf-13-tips-to-survive-the-toughest-part-of-fertility-treatments/

Is Therapy Covered by OHIP?

If you’re here, you’re probably wondering whether psychotherapy and counselling are covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)....