Questions
Ask us anything.
The questions people ask most before their first session. Do not see yours? Email us and a real person will reply.
Cost and booking the practical part
Are services covered by OHIP?
Our services are not currently covered by OHIP. Most workplace benefits programs include coverage for sessions, and several programs can pay for counselling directly.
Do you offer same-day counselling?
Yes. We are proud to offer same-day, walk-in counselling based on clinician availability. Call 807-767-3888 or check online for same-day openings.
Do you offer couples counselling?
Yes. Couples sessions are 1.5 hours, which gives each partner time to be heard and to work together towards resolving the issues.
Do you see children and youth?
We do. Please read our consent and parent involvement details before booking.
Can sessions be by phone, video, or off-site?
Yes. Our clinicians offer sessions by phone or video. Choose that option when you book online, or let us know when you book by phone.
We also provide services to organizations off-site on request. Please mention it when booking.
Therapy and approaches what actually happens
What is psychotherapy?
Talk therapy. It is called psychotherapy to set it apart from other therapies, like physiotherapy.
Together you explore the root causes of what you are facing, name how you are feeling, learn about what is happening, and get guidance on making changes. Techniques vary with each person. Our goal is to meet you where you are.
Do you prescribe medication or provide a diagnosis?
No. Prescriptions and formal diagnoses come from a psychiatrist or family physician. Our social workers and psychotherapists provide talk therapy to help you process thoughts and emotions and build skills to manage symptoms.
What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?
CBT helps you identify and manage negative thought patterns, set realistic goals, track progress, and practise coping skills. You learn to tell apart thoughts, feelings, physical responses and behaviours, and how your perceptions and beliefs shape them.
Do you offer EMDR or DBT?
Yes. DBT is a modified form of CBT that adds distress tolerance, acceptance and mindful awareness to emotion regulation. Our clinicians combine it with CBT and other approaches in sessions.
EMDR is one of the most effective treatments for trauma. Using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, handheld buzzers or tones, it helps the mind connect emotion with logic and process memories quickly, often leading to significant improvements in overall functioning.
What is the difference between a social worker and other counsellors?
Anyone in this field can provide counselling, but assessment and psychotherapy require much more education and training. Counsellors come from many backgrounds and are not regulated by a governing body.
Master's-level social workers and psychotherapists are regulated health providers, licensed and governed by their colleges, and can provide assessment and treatment. Only psychologists, psychological associates and psychiatrists can give a formal diagnosis.
Privacy and confidentiality in a small city
Can I come to counselling if I know Linda, or someone who works there?
Yes. Your confidentiality is a top priority. Your clinical file can only be accessed by your therapist and their supervisor. Other staff may see your name on the schedule, but they cannot see why you are coming, and they do not go looking.
If you are placed with a therapist you know, either of you can tell us and we will transfer you right away. If you would rather a staff member not know you attend, we can use another name on your chart, book times when they are not in, or hold sessions by phone or video.
As Clinical Director, Linda keeps custody of all files. If you know her personally, she appoints another supervisor so she does not need to access your file. The file would only come into her care if your therapist leaves the practice, or in rare legal situations, such as a court requesting disclosure.
What if I run into someone in the waiting area?
We cannot promise you will never see someone you know, but we start sessions on time so you are not waiting long. There is a second exit if you would rather leave a different way, and our staff can place you in a conference room early.
What if my therapist is someone I sort of know?
If you have to talk yourself into whether it is a good idea, we do not do it. We would rather spare you the awkward moment at a social gathering and set you up with another of our clinicians.
Visiting the cottage on Dawson Road
Where are you located?
1226 Dawson Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7G 1H7. North of County Fair Plaza, up Highway 102 (Dawson Road), next to Mezo Auto and Motors. Free parking on site.
The Jumbo Gardens and John Street buses stop across the street at Dawson Road and Sherwood Drive.
What are your hours?
Monday and Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Closed for all statutory holidays and the Civic Holiday. December holiday closures vary.
Still wondering? info@kellymentalhealth.com
Questions answered? Your move.
Book online any time, or call and a real person will help you find the right clinician.
Wondering about cost? See coverage options.