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Laddering Solutions Counselling

I am continuing to take new clients during the COVID-19 self-isolation period. I am currently offering encrypted video and phone sessions.

Discover how cognitive behaviour therapy and “laddering” technique can help you manage depression, anxiety & life stressors.

  • Laddering Solutions Counselling uses evidence-based methods that are thought, belief and behavior-based. 

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Welcome

Michael J. Smith, MSW., RSW., at Laddering Solutions Counselling is enthusiastic about developing a therapeutic-relationship with you to effectively empower you to manage mood disorders resembling symptoms of persistent and intense feelings of sadness, and low energy, as well as, excessive worry, anxiousness, and fears.

I understand the need for you to regain control of your mind and body in order to feel safe, motivated, hopeful, worthy, and able to pursue your ambitions as you climb out of anxious and depressed mood into a life you desire and deserve.

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About Me

      Michael J. Smith, MSW., RSW., is a licensed clinical Registered Social Worker/Psychotherapist in good standing with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers, Psychotherapy. Michael is also a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers.

     Michael has a decade of experience working with individuals and families of all age groups in a variety of settings, helping them navigate and cope with life encounters. Michael holds a Master’s degree in Social Work and clinical trainings in psychotherapy e.g., cognitive behavioural therapy, acceptance and committment therapy, trauma-informed counselling, crisis intervention, family engagement counselling, solutions-focused therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, conflict resolution, psychological first aid (e.g., self-care, distress tolerance, etc.) and other mental health therapy.

     Michael J. Smith has experience working as a Clinical Social Worker providing psychoeducation, individual and group counselling, life skills coaching to youth, adults, and seniors experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress. These supports were provided in community mental health settings such as, Ontario Family Health Team, hospital, school board, youth justice, child welfare/foster care system, and community agencies.

     Michael J. Smith’s approach to cognitive behavioural therapy employs various psychodynamic theory, coupled with family systems theory, and person-centered therapy to get a comprehensive conceptualization of the thinking, emotional and behavioural patterns that are causing distress in people’s lives; thus inform the development of a flexible treatment plan that individuals are willing and able to put into action.

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Services/Fees

Services

  • Laddering Solutions Counselling provides psychotherapy treatment and psychoeducation to individuals (adults and teenagers) suffering, instead of coping with anxiety, depression and stress.                                     

  • In-person, virtual (online) or telephone counselling are available.

Fee for Services

  • Free 15-minute consultation.

  • Fees for additional services per 50 minutes (individual) session is $150.00.

  • I accept cash, e-transfer, as payment methods due on day of service delivery.

  • I do not bill directly to insurance. Please make all payments directly to Michael Smith.

  • Fees may be covered under Extended Health Care Plans. Please check with your insurance providers to verify if you are covered for counselling by a Registered Social Worker. This information is sometimes combined and located under “Psychologists” visits. You may also have a Health Spending Account which offers additional finances to cover cost of ongoing counselling.

  • A receipt will be provided that contains all relevant information required to submit a claim to your insurance provider, such as your name, date of the session, duration of session, cost of session, confirmation of payment, and therapists information.

  • PLEASE NOTE:*I do not provide any documentation directly for any insurance or legal matters. Please refer to your primary care physician or family doctor. *

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Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT):

  • CBT teaches you how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours work together. A goal of CBT is to identify and change the unhelpful patterns of thinking that feed negative stress reactions, depression and anxiety disorders. 

  • CBT can help you identify problem behaviours and replace them with helpful coping strategies. It’s often the first treatment to try for mild or moderate problems with anxiety, depression disorders, and stressful situations.

  • My role is to give you the coping skills, right-fit strategies, and psychoeducation to achieve a balanced way of thinking to achieve mental and physical health. After several sessions, you will become well-versed at handling issues whenever and wherever they arise. Call now to schedule a session.

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                   Policy

  • Cancelled or missed appointments less than 24 hour’s notice will be billed a full fee on the same day as the cancelled or missed appointments. Some exceptions apply.

  • Missed or cancelled appointments may not be covered under your insurance plan. You are expected to keep track of your own appointments. 

  • 24/7 Crisis Support: This is not a crisis-oriented service. If you are in crisis or require emergency help (i.e. having thoughts of self-harm or harm to others), contact Crisis Services Canada at 1-833-456-4566 or TEXT to 45645 or call 911 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department.                                                               

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Schedule a Session

Michael J. Smith, MSW., RSW.

Phone: 289-275-9063

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Laddering Solutions Counselling

Michael J. Smith, MSW, RSW / Email: info@ladderingsolutionscounselling.ca 
Phone: 289-275-9063

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