Our Therapeutic Approaches

We use well-established, evidence-based therapeutic approaches and thoughtfully adapt them to your unique goals, experiences, and life context. Therapy is a collaborative process where you are supported in understanding patterns, developing practical coping strategies, and building insight and resilience.

Our work together is grounded in safety, respect, and trust, helping you move toward meaningful and lasting change at a pace that feels right for you.

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach that helps individuals understand how thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are connected. It is commonly used to support anxiety, depression, OCD, addictions, chronic health conditions, and emotional regulation challenges.

Identify unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress
Understand how thoughts influence feelings and behaviours
Develop practical strategies to challenge and reframe negative thinking
Build coping skills to manage stress, anxiety, and mood changes
Respond to difficult situations with greater clarity and confidence

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach originally developed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and is also effective for emotional regulation, impulse control, self-harm behaviours, and intense emotional distress. DBT combines skills-based strategies with acceptance and validation.

Regulate intense emotions more effectively
Develop distress-tolerance skills for overwhelming situations
Improve impulse control and decision-making
Strengthen interpersonal and communication skills
Reduce self-harm urges and emotionally reactive behaviours

Trauma-Informed Care

Specialized approach for trauma survivors with safety-first principles

Creates a safe therapeutic environment
Recognizes the impact of trauma on behavior
Emphasizes collaboration and choice
Builds on individual strengths
Addresses intergenerational trauma

Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

Evidence-based, trauma-focused therapy designed to help individuals reduce distress related to trauma and PTSD. PE supports healing by gently and safely helping you face trauma-related memories, thoughts, and situations that have been avoided.

Understand how trauma impacts the brain and nervous system
Gradually face trauma-related memories in a safe, structured way
Reduce fear, anxiety, and emotional reactivity over time
Decrease avoidance of reminders that interfere with daily life
Build confidence in your ability to tolerate and manage distress
Reclaim a sense of control and safety in your body and environment

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based form of therapy that helps you relate differently to difficult thoughts and emotions, so they have less control over your life. Instead of trying to "get rid of" anxiety, sadness, or painful thoughts, ACT focuses on acceptance, mindfulness, and values-based action — helping you live a meaningful life even when challenges are present.

Make space for difficult thoughts and feelings without being overwhelmed by them
Notice thoughts without automatically believing or reacting to them
Stay grounded in the present moment
Clarify what truly matters to you
Take small, intentional steps toward a life aligned with your values

Solution-Focused Therapy

Solution-Focused Therapy is a strengths-based approach that emphasizes what is already working and helps you move toward your preferred future. Rather than focusing on problems alone, this approach highlights resilience, resources, and possibilities.

Identify personal strengths and existing coping skills
Clarify goals and define what positive change looks like for you
Build small, achievable steps toward meaningful progress
Increase confidence and hope by focusing on solutions
Stay present-focused and future-oriented

Compassion Fatigue Counselling

Compassion fatigue — often referred to as secondary traumatic stress — can occur when caregivers, family members, or helping professionals are deeply affected by the suffering of others. Over time, this can lead to emotional exhaustion, anxiety, depression, and burnout.

Recognize the signs and impact of compassion fatigue and burnout
Develop self-compassion and emotional boundaries
Restore balance between caregiving and personal wellbeing
Strengthen coping strategies to manage stress and overwhelm
Reconnect with meaning, energy, and purpose in your role

Culturally Responsive Therapy

Inclusive practice honoring diverse backgrounds and experiences

Acknowledges cultural identity and values
Addresses systemic barriers and discrimination
Incorporates cultural strengths and resources
Promotes equity and social justice
Adapts interventions to cultural context

Holistic Approach

Comprehensive care addressing mind, body, and spirit

Considers all aspects of well-being
Integrates physical and mental health
Explores spiritual and existential concerns
Emphasizes lifestyle and wellness factors
Promotes overall life balance

Strength-Based Perspective

Focuses on inherent strengths and resilience

Identifies and builds on personal strengths
Recognizes resilience and coping abilities
Promotes self-efficacy and empowerment
Celebrates progress and achievements
Shifts focus from deficits to capabilities

Narrative Therapy

Helps rewrite personal stories and create new meanings

Separates people from their problems
Explores alternative life narratives
Challenges dominant cultural stories
Honors lived experiences and wisdom
Creates space for preferred identities

Mindfulness-Based Interventions

Incorporates present-moment awareness and acceptance

Develops awareness of thoughts and feelings
Reduces stress and emotional reactivity
Enhances self-compassion and acceptance
Improves emotional regulation
Integrates meditation and breathing techniques

Integrated Care Approach

At Aivy Therapy and Consult, we don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Our experienced therapists skillfully integrate multiple therapeutic modalities to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs, cultural background, and personal goals. This integrated approach ensures that you receive comprehensive care that honors your whole self - mind, body, and spirit.

Find the Right Approach for You

Let's work together to determine which therapeutic approach will best support your healing journey.