FIRST STEP MEN'S THERAPY
Therapy for Individuals: Available to Men in Toronto, Ottawa and Virtually Across Canada
Supporting men and their partners
Services Available across Canada
Online & In-Person Sessions, Guaranteed No Waitlist
Accepted by most major insurance providers
Suivis/services thérapeutiques offerts en français
Are you…
✓ Feeling disconnected from yourself, your loved ones, or society?
✓ Questioning whether you are a good father, son, or partner?
✓ Dealing with feelings of anger, overwhelm, powerlessness, guilt, or being stuck?
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A healthy relationship with yourself is possible!
We help men develop healthier relationships with themselves and those around them.
Many men struggle with their mental health without seeking help or reaching out for support. Often, this struggle may lead to addiction, anxiety, depression, shame, guilt, suicidal ideation, poor relationships, grief, low self-esteem, or low self-worth. First Step Men's Therapy offers a safe, warm, and inviting space for men to heal, learn, and grow.
Empowering Men, Transforming Lives
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At First Step Men's Therapy, we understand that seeking help is a courageous step, and we are here to support you on your journey toward better mental health. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists specializes in men's mental health, offering individual therapy tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
Why Choose First Step Men's Therapy
First Step Men's Therapy is more than a clinic; it's a living, breathing testament to resilience, compassion, and the unwavering belief that every man deserves a space to embark on a journey towards mental well-being.
Specialized Focus on Men's Mental Health
Unlike general therapy practices, we exclusively focus on the unique mental health needs of men.
Experienced, Gender-Inclusive Team
While 85% of our therapists are male, our team includes a diverse group of professionals, all committed to men's mental health.
Comprehensive, Evidence-Based Approach
Based on your unique situation, we utilize a wide range of evidence-based therapy approaches and trauma-informed care.
Flexible In-Person & Virtual Sessions
We offer in-person sessions at our offices in downtown Toronto & Ottawa, as well as virtual therapy sessions for clients across Canada.
Individual therapy may be for you if…
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✓ You are looking to learn, grow, and heal and have decided to take the first step in your mental health journey.
Taking The First Step
Individual Therapy for Men: Our one-on-one therapy sessions provide a confidential and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and concerns. Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other challenges, our therapists are here to assist you. Many men often feel unsafe or unable to share and be heart - rest assured our goal is to make the space and session safe, reflective, and supportive.
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Specialized Areas: We specialize in addressing a range of men's mental health issues, including stress management, anger management, work-related challenges, fatherhood concerns, and more. Our therapists have the expertise to guide you through these unique experiences.
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Evidence-Based Approaches: Our therapists utilize evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused Therapy. These methods are proven to be effective in promoting positive change and personal growth.
The Process
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Getting Started: Taking the first step toward better mental health is simple. Contact us to schedule an initial free consultation. During this consultation, we'll discuss your goals, concerns, and how we can work together to support your mental health journey.
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Book at your own pace: You are in charge of your therapy - while we recommend weekly or bi-weekly sessions to start, you can ultimately decide on the pace of your treatment.
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Confidentiality: Your privacy is of utmost importance to us. Rest assured that all information shared during sessions is kept strictly confidential in accordance with professional standards and legal requirements.​
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is psychotherapy?Psychotherapy is a form of talk therapy that aims to help improve and maintain one's mental health and face challenges both in the present and going forward.
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Is a therapist covered by OHIP? How about my company's health insurance plan?Unfortunately, OHIP does not currently cover the cost of psychotherapy services. Some insurance providers may cover the cost, however, you will have to check whether your insurance provider covers the designation (i.e. Registered Psychotherapist or Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist/Registered Social Worker) prior to starting therapy to ensure coverage.
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How long does each session last?Each individual session lasts 50 minutes. We use the final 10 minutes to finish up our documentation such as case notes that are required by the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario and when developing a tailored treatment plan to help guide us in our work.
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I have insurance. Can you direct bill to my provider?To keep things simple, we ask that you pay for our services first, then submit any claims directly to your own insurance provider. Check with your insurance providers to learn more about whether you are covered for services offered by your individual therapist's designation (i.e. Social Worker, Registered Psychotherapist, & Qualifying Registered Psychotherapist).
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Do you have a physical location?Yes, we have an office in Ottawa, Ontario located at Bank & Cooper in the heart of Centretown. Don't live in Ottawa? We offer online therapy options for individuals residing across Ontario. We have clients in Windsor, Kingston, Toronto, London, Hamilton, Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Niagara Falls - and everywhere in between!
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I have never done therapy online. Is is safe? What can I expect?Working with a therapist requires an environment that is safe, private, and secure. We use a telehealth platform that enables us to work together in such an environment. There is also an added layer of comfort for many clients, as you can meet us in the safety and privacy of your own space. We ask that you minimize any distractions prior to our session, such as silencing all cell phones and ensuring you have water or a pen/paper prior to joining the session.
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Do you provide receipts?Yes, we provide you with a .pdf receipt after each session to allow you to keep for your own records and, if needed, submit it for your insurance coverage or tax records (if applicable).
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My partner isn't convinced he needs therapy. Can I book an appointment for him?While understandable, we ask that the individual who requires our services make the first step and reach out to us directly. We are unable to book appointments from partners, friends, or family.
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How many sessions will it take to feel better?The answer depends on many factors/variables. Some individuals start to feel better quickly as a result of simply talking open and honestly about their concerns for the first time. However, deeper level change does take time. The longer you have been struggling with your concern the more therapy sessions you will most likely need. On average many clients do notice some progress within the first 2-3 months of therapy.
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Is therapy confidential?Your privacy and confidentiality are crucial. The information that you share will not be disclosed without your consent. There are some exceptions to this (required by Ontario law): You disclose information that indicates you or someone else is in imminent danger You disclose information about abuse or neglect of a child under the age of 16 You disclose information about abuse by a health care professional You disclose information about the abuse or neglect of a senior The court subpoenas your records The College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario requests your records as part of an audit Before and throughout therapy, we will discuss these circumstances in detail and you will have an opportunity to ask questions.
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How is my personal health information stored?Your personal health information is stored on a secure and private PIPEDA and PHIPA compliant electronic record management software, Jane Practice. PIPEDA: The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act PHIPA: Personal Health Information Protection Act
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I have some things I am not ready to talk about. Will I have to speak about them early on in therapy?The short answer is no. You will never be forced to discuss something that you don’t feel comfortable disclosing. It can help to think of therapy like driving a car – you’re in the driver’s seat, the therapist is the passenger. A therapist can work with you to determine a better roadmap, but ultimately the decision to turn is yours. You can always discuss the pros and cons of discussing a certain topic with your therapist.
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What will a 20-minute consultation help me with?An important predictor of success in therapy is fit between client and therapist. While it will take you some time to develop trust, after this call you should have an idea of whether this is someone you’d like to work with. We will review basic questions that you have and determine if fees and appointment availability work for you. You do not have to make a decision during this call about proceeding with therapy. You can take your time, think about it, and reach out at a later time to schedule your appointment.
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I am ready to get started. What's the process look like?Once ready to book a first session, we will send you an intake form and informed consent form that outlines all the policies and procedures within the course of your therapeutic relationship (confidentiality, cancellation, fees etc). Once your form has been completed and signed, you will be ready to start your session. ** A valid credit card is required prior to starting your first session and throughout the therapeutic relationship.
