If you’re facing challenges like anxiety, depression, stress, or negative thinking patterns, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help. CBT is one of the most effective, evidence-based approaches for improving mental health and empowering individuals to create lasting change. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing emotional struggles or looking to improve your overall well-being, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Williams Lake can offer valuable support.

We specialize in providing personalized EMDR and CBT services designed to help you identify and manage negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Our therapists work closely with you to develop coping strategies. Furthermore, you’ll also get tools for achieving long-term emotional balance and mental clarity.

What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured, goal-oriented treatment that focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It operates on the principle that our thoughts influence our feelings and actions, and by changing negative thought patterns, we can change how we feel and behave.

In addition, CBT works by identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts and replacing them with healthier, more realistic ways of thinking. This process helps break the cycle of negative emotions and behaviors that can contribute to conditions like anxiety, depression, or chronic stress.

The approach is highly practical and skills-focused, offering concrete techniques that you can use to manage challenges in everyday life. In CBT sessions, you will work with your therapist to explore your thought patterns. That way, you may uncover any distortions, and learn how to replace them with more balanced perspectives! The goal is to empower you to manage difficult emotions and behaviors on your own outside of therapy.

Benefits of CBT in Williams Lake

There are many benefits to choosing CBT for mental health treatment in Williams Lake. Here are just a few:

1. Effective for Various Conditions: CBT has been proven to be effective for treating a wide range of mental health conditions. That includes anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. If you struggle with any of these issues, CBT could be a valuable approach.
2. Skills-Based and Goal-Oriented: Unlike other forms of therapy, CBT is focused on teaching you skills and strategies to manage your emotions and behaviors. This makes it practical and hands-on, helping you make measurable progress toward your goals.
3. Short-Term Treatment: CBT is often considered a short-term treatment, making it an appealing option for individuals seeking fast relief and lasting results. Many individuals see improvement in a relatively short period, allowing them to feel better equipped to manage challenges on their own.
4. Improves Emotional Regulation: One of the core benefits of CBT is the development of stronger emotional regulation. By recognizing and reframing negative thought patterns, you can reduce emotional reactivity and experience greater emotional stability.

Mind you, CBT equips you with tools that you can continue to use throughout your life. The techniques learned during therapy can help you with future challenges. And prevent the recurrence of mental health struggles!

What to expect from CBT in Williams Lake

When you begin Cognitive Behavioral Therapy at Grigore Counselling in Williams Lake, your therapist will take time to understand your specific challenges. The initial sessions focus on developing a strong therapeutic relationship and understanding your concerns.

From there, your therapist will guide you through identifying any unhelpful thought patterns that may be contributing to your emotional difficulties. Through structured exercises and techniques, you’ll learn how to challenge these thoughts. Furthermore, you’ll replace them with healthier, more realistic perspectives.

As part of your therapy, you may also work on behavioral strategies, such as relaxation techniques, exposure therapy, or problem-solving skills. Your therapist will help you develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs. This helps you make steady progress toward your mental health goals.

A client-centered approach

As we take a client-centered approach, meaning that your therapy experience will be tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or stress, we are here to guide you through the process of healing and growth.

We understand that seeking therapy is a big step. That’s why we provide a welcoming, supportive environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your concerns. Your well-being is our top priority, and we are here to help you develop the tools you need to thrive.

Begin your Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Williams Lake with us!

Are you ready to experience the benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy? Grigore Counselling is here to help. Our team is dedicated to supporting you on your journey to emotional wellness. And personal growth, too!

If you’re interested in learning more about how CBT can help you, we invite you to book an appointment today. Let us help you navigate life’s challenges and find a path toward lasting change and emotional resilience.

Regardless of whether or not you celebrate Christmas or some other holiday tradition, the thought of visiting with family can instill in a lot of people “Christmas Fear” instead of “Christmas Cheer.” I’m going to pass along 5 Tips for Avoiding the “Christmas Crossfire.”

Do I have PTSD? That is a question you may be asking if you are experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, and intense fear or anxiety. Experiencing these symptoms could be signs of PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Living with PTSD can be incredibly challenging, as the symptoms can disrupt daily life and lead to feelings of isolation and distress. In this article, we will explore five key signs that may indicate you are living with PTSD.

In an era of instant access and digital convenience, ChatGPT and other AI chatbots are increasingly stepping into roles traditionally held by human therapists. But can these AI companions truly stand in for a licensed professional? Here’s a balanced look at the promise—and pitfalls—of using ChatGPT as a mental health aid.

When exploring therapy options, it can be hard to know where to start. Many try to figure CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR, as those are some of the most effective evidence-based therapies available today. But how do they differ? And which one is the right fit for your unique situation?

Grigore Counselling helps clients every day navigate these choices. In this guide, we’ll break down CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR clearly—so you can make an informed decision about your healing journey.

CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR: What Is CBT?

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most researched and widely used types of therapy. It’s based on the idea that your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are interconnected. When you learn to identify and change unhelpful thinking patterns, you can improve your emotions and actions.

Who is CBT for?

CBT works well for people experiencing:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stress
• Phobias
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Sleep problems
• Negative thinking patterns

What does CBT involve?

CBT is typically short-term and structured. You’ll learn practical tools like:

• Identifying cognitive distortions
• Challenging negative beliefs
• Developing healthier thinking patterns
• Behavioural activation
• Stress management

It often involves homework between sessions to reinforce skills.

When is CBT the right choice?

Choose CBT if you want to:

• Focus on present-day issues
• Learn actionable coping strategies
• Build long-term mental health resilience

CBT is a great starting point for many people new to therapy. But let’s continue with CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR.

CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR: What Is DBT?

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) evolved from CBT but adds an important focus on emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. It’s especially helpful for those who experience intense emotions or struggle with relationships.

Who is DBT for?

DBT is highly effective for:

• Emotion dysregulation
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Self-harm behaviours
• Suicidal thoughts
• Chronic feelings of emptiness
• PTSD
• Complex trauma

What does DBT involve?

DBT combines individual therapy with skills training in four key areas:

• Mindfulness
• Emotion regulation
• Distress tolerance
• Interpersonal effectiveness

Therapists balance acceptance with change—helping you build a life worth living.

When is DBT the right choice?

Choose DBT if you:

• Feel out of control emotionally
• Struggle with unstable relationships
• Engage in self-destructive behaviours
• Want to build stronger coping and communication skills

Grigore Counselling often recommends DBT for clients facing difficulty regulating emotions. Let’s continue with CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR.

CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR: What Is EMDR?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy designed to help you process and resolve traumatic memories. It uses bilateral stimulation (often guided eye movements) to help your brain reprocess distressing events so they no longer cause intense emotional reactions.

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR is effective for:

• PTSD
• Complex trauma
• Childhood abuse or neglect
• Phobias
• Anxiety
• Grief and loss
• Medical trauma

What does EMDR involve?

EMDR typically follows an eight-phase protocol. After building trust and emotional safety, your therapist will guide you through processing traumatic memories using bilateral stimulation.

This process helps reduce the emotional charge of the memory—allowing you to move forward without being stuck in the past.

When is EMDR the right choice?

Choose EMDR if you:

• Struggle with unresolved trauma
• Experience flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories
• Feel stuck despite other therapy methods
• Want to process difficult experiences safely and effectively

EMDR can complement CBT and DBT, or serve as a primary therapy for trauma recovery.

CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR: How Do I Choose?

When comparing CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR, the best choice depends on your specific goals, symptoms, and needs.

If you want to:

• Address anxiety or depression → CBT
• Build emotional regulation skills → DBT
• Process trauma → EMDR

If you:

• Have high emotional sensitivity → DBT
• Want practical, structured tools → CBT
• Feel stuck in traumatic memories → EMDR

Grigore Counselling has an experienced team offers all three modalities and can help you find the best fit. Often, therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Many clients combine approaches. For example:

• CBT + EMDR for trauma with anxiety
• DBT + EMDR for complex trauma and emotional regulation
• CBT + DBT for managing depression and relationship challenges

During your initial consultation, we’ll help assess what combination will best support your healing.

Why It’s Important to Work with a Trauma-Informed Therapist

Whether you choose CBT, DBT, or EMDR, working with a trauma-informed therapist is key. Many people seek therapy for anxiety, depression, or relationship issues—without realizing underlying trauma may be driving these patterns.

At Grigore Counselling, our clinicians bring trauma-informed care to every session. This means we prioritize your emotional safety, honour your pace, and focus on true healing—not just symptom management.

CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR: Ready to Start?

If you’re wondering, CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR—which one is right for me?, know this: you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Contact Grigore Counselling today to schedule your consultation. Together, we’ll explore the therapy options that best fit your goals and help you take the next step toward lasting change.

FAQ on CBT vs. DBT vs. EMDR

Is EMDR more effective than CBT or DBT?

It depends on your needs. EMDR is highly effective for trauma processing, while CBT and DBT offer strong tools for anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation. Many clients benefit from a combination.

Can I do CBT, DBT, and EMDR at the same time?

Yes, many clients integrate approaches. For example, using CBT skills to manage day-to-day anxiety while working through trauma with EMDR, and building emotion regulation with DBT.

How do I know if trauma is affecting me?

Common signs include flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness, relationship difficulties, or unexplained anxiety. A trauma-informed therapist can help you explore these symptoms safely.

Now that school’s out, summer is the perfect time to unlock the potential within our children and adolescents. This vibrant season presents an opportunity not just for fun and exploration, but for profound growth and transformation. Counselling for children and adolescents can play a pivotal role during these formative years, offering support that empowers young minds to navigate challenges and harness their strengths. Through engaging therapeutic techniques, kids are encouraged to express themselves, build resilience, and develop essential life skills.

This article delves into the multifaceted benefits of focusing on mental health for children and adolescents during the summer months, illustrating how it can shape a brighter future for our youth. By investing in their emotional and mental well-being now, we lay the foundation for success, happiness, and fulfillment that can last a lifetime. Join us as we explore the potential of counselling to turn summer into a season of hope, healing, and growth for children and adolescents.

Healing from trauma doesn’t folow a straight line. It takes time, safety, and the right kind of support. Whether you’re dealing with childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, medical trauma, or loss—there are many ways to find mental health support for trauma and begin the healing process.

In this post, we’ll outline different ways to find mental health support for trauma. You don’t need a diagnosis to seek help. You just need a starting point.

1. Find Mental Health Support for Trauma: Talk Therapy with a Licensed Therapist

The most common and effective path to find mental health support for trauma is to work with a trauma-informed therapist. Not all therapists specialize in trauma, so it’s important to ask the right questions:

• Do they use trauma-focused modalities like EMDR?
• Are they trained in somatic work or nervous system regulation?
• Do they offer a safe, non-judgmental space?

Grigore Counselling has clinicians that are trained in evidence-based trauma care. You can search by location, online therapy options, or by specific therapy modalities.

2. EMDR Therapy for Trauma

EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is one of the most effective trauma treatments. It works by helping the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer feel overwhelming.

It’s not talk therapy—it’s structured, focused, and research-backed. EMDR can help reduce symptoms like:

• Flashbacks
• Intrusive thoughts
• Emotional numbness
• Hypervigilance
• Chronic shame

If you’ve tried traditional talk therapy and still feel stuck, EMDR might be the right next step.

3. Group Therapy or Peer Support

Sometimes healing happens best in community. Group therapy or trauma-focused support groups allow you to connect with others who share similar experiences.

You don’t have to share everything. Just being in a space where others understand can reduce shame and isolation. Look for:

• Trauma-specific groups
• Grief or abuse recovery groups
• Gender-specific support
• Indigenous community-led healing circles (especially important in Northern communities)

4. Find Mental Health Support for Trauma: Online Counselling Options

If you’re in a remote area or don’t feel comfortable attending therapy in person, online therapy is a valid and effective choice.

We offer online trauma counselling for clients across BC, the Northwest Territories, and beyond. You’ll still receive personalized, confidential support—just from the comfort of home.

5. Somatic-Based Therapy

Trauma lives in the body. Somatic therapies focus on reconnecting with physical sensations, helping regulate the nervous system, and releasing stuck trauma responses.

These may include:

• Somatic Experiencing
• Sensorimotor Psychotherapy
• Yoga-based trauma therapy
• Breathwork or grounding exercises

Not all therapists offer somatic modalities, so it’s important to ask if this is part of their approach.

6. Culturally Safe & Identity-Aware Therapies

Finding a therapist who respects your cultural background, identity, or spiritual beliefs can make the process safer and more effective. For Indigenous clients, for example, therapy that includes an understanding of historical and intergenerational trauma is critical.

Therapists like Lacey Poltorasky in Yellowknife, who is part Tahltan, offer culturally rooted care for Northern and Indigenous clients.

7. Books, Podcasts, and Self-Help Resources

If therapy feels too big a step right now, start with psychoeducation. Understanding trauma can help you name what you’re feeling and decide how to move forward. We recommend:

• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• Waking the Tiger by Peter Levine
• What Happened to You? by Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey

Many therapists also offer free guides, workshops, or trauma webinars on their sites.

When to Reach Out for Help

If you’re experiencing any of the following, support can help:

• Sleep issues
• Intrusive memories
• Avoidance
• Panic attacks
• Difficulty trusting others
• Unexplained chronic pain

You don’t have to carry trauma alone. Reach out to us and take the first step toward healing.

FAQ

How do I know what kind of trauma therapy is right for me?

Start by identifying your main symptoms—are they emotional, physical, relational? Then, look for a therapist who uses a modality suited to those symptoms. EMDR, CBT, and somatic therapies are commonly effective.

Can I do trauma therapy even if I don’t remember everything?

Yes. Many trauma therapies, including EMDR, work with feelings, body sensations, and beliefs—not just memories.

How long does trauma therapy take?

It varies. Some people feel better in weeks. Others need months. The process is individual and based on your history, support system, and therapy frequency.

Is online trauma therapy effective?

Absolutely. Virtual therapy has been proven effective, especially when guided by a qualified trauma-informed therapist.

What if I’m scared to talk about my trauma?

You don’t have to tell your story all at once. A good therapist will work at your pace, building trust and safety first.

Dr. Shams is a Registered Clinical Counsellor (BCACC #22447) with a Ph.D. in Psychology. Fluent in both English and Farsi, she brings a deep understanding of the immigrant experience to her practice. Her approach is warm, compassionate, and insightful, aiming to help clients uncover patterns, heal past wounds, and develop tools for confident living.

Understanding trauma is key to healing. Many people experience trauma without even realizing it—childhood neglect, emotional abuse, medical procedures, or even chronic stress can all leave a lasting impact. Trauma-informed therapy offers a safe, effective path to recovery. For that, in this guide, you’ll learn what trauma-informed therapy is, how it works, who it helps, and how to access support that truly understands the impact of trauma.

What Is Trauma-Informed Therapy?

Trauma-informed therapy is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and actively works to avoid re-traumatization. It’s not a technique—it’s a framework.

Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?” a trauma-informed therapist asks, “What happened to you?”

This shift is powerful. It builds trust, fosters safety, and respects your boundaries.

Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Therapy

Effective trauma-informed care is guided by six core principles:

1. Safety – Physical, emotional, and relational safety come first.
2. Trustworthiness and Transparency – Clear, honest communication at all times.
3. Peer Support – Healing can happen in community.
4. Collaboration – You are the expert on your experience.
5. Empowerment – Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses.
6. Cultural, Historical, and Gender Sensitivity – Honouring your unique background and identity.

Therapists trained in trauma-informed care integrate these principles into every session.

Who Can Benefit?

Trauma-informed therapy is for anyone affected by trauma. That includes:

• Survivors of abuse or neglect
• People with PTSD or complex PTSD
• Veterans
• People recovering from medical trauma or accidents
• First responders
• Those who grew up in high-conflict or unstable homes
• Survivors of intergenerational or systemic trauma

Even if you don’t have a specific “trauma event,” chronic emotional stress can still create trauma responses.

What Does a Session Look Like?

Each therapist works differently, but a session often includes:

• A focus on your nervous system (regulating before processing)
• Open-ended questions that respect your pace
• Collaborative goal setting
• Education about how trauma affects your brain and body
• Techniques for grounding, mindfulness, and emotional regulation

You won’t be pushed to talk about painful memories before you’re ready. Safety is always the priority.

Modalities That Support Trauma Recovery

Trauma-informed therapy is a framework—not a method. But certain therapy types align well with it:

• EMDR Therapy: Helps reprocess traumatic memories safely.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Effective for anxiety, depression, and trauma-related thought patterns.
• Somatic Therapy: Uses the body to release trauma held physically.
• Internal Family Systems (IFS): Works with “parts” of the self that protect and carry pain.
• Attachment-Focused Therapy: Builds safe, secure emotional connection.

We offer trauma-informed support through these and other approaches.

Why Trauma-Informed Care Matters

Not all therapy is trauma-informed. Unfortunately, some experiences in therapy can retraumatize clients—especially when therapists lack understanding of trauma responses like dissociation, shutdown, or hypervigilance.

This therapy ensures that your story is heard with care, and that healing doesn’t cause more harm.

It helps clients:

• Build emotional resilience
• Regulate intense feelings
• Reconnect with their body
• Improve relationships
• Break patterns of shame, guilt, or avoidance

Finding the Right Therapist

Here’s what to look for in a trauma-informed therapist:

• Training in trauma-specific therapies like EMDR or somatic work
• Respectful, non-judgmental communication
• Willingness to move at your pace
• Clear boundaries and informed consent
• Cultural sensitivity, especially if you’re Indigenous, LGBTQIA2S+, or from a marginalized background

Explore our directory of trauma-informed therapists and contact us for your first session.

The Healing Journey Is Not Linear

Healing trauma takes time. Some weeks are full of progress. Others bring setbacks. That’s normal.

Trauma-informed therapy doesn’t force quick fixes. Instead, it walks beside you—at your pace—toward long-term emotional and physical well-being.

FAQ

What makes therapy “trauma-informed”?

Trauma-informed therapy recognizes the impact of trauma and actively avoids re-traumatization. It prioritizes safety, trust, collaboration, and empowerment.

Do I need to have a PTSD diagnosis to seek trauma-informed therapy?

No. You can seek help if you feel stuck, overwhelmed, numb, or triggered—even without a formal diagnosis.

How is trauma stored in the body?
Trauma often shows up as chronic tension, digestive issues, insomnia, or emotional numbness. Somatic therapy and EMDR help address these symptoms.

Can trauma-informed therapy help with anxiety or depression?

Yes. Anxiety and depression are often linked to unprocessed trauma. Trauma-informed therapy treats the root, not just the symptoms.