Couples, Family and Individual Therapy

  SHERI BETELM.S.W, R.S.W.

General Services

individual counselling

Everyone needs a helping hand now and again. Whether it is a shoulder to cry on or a point in the right direction, as human beings we are programmed to need others. However, that person may not always be available when you need them. When you are feeling alone and in need of an ear, therapy can help.

Individual counselling:

There are many reasons why you might want to seek therapy. For some it is dealing with past issues and traumas that keep surfacing and interfering with current life. For others it is dealing with a recent tragedy or trauma that is happening now. Having a safe place to talk and be able to express yourself unedited can illuminate the path you need to be on.

We live in a stressful and often fearful time. More and more, people are finding it hard to cope with not only their own lives, but with a fear mongering society. The rate of anxiety and depression among people has exploded. Sometimes medication can help, but the most effective treatment always involves psychotherapy as well. Using research-based effective therapies, I can help you deal with the thoughts and behaviours that get in the way of coping with life.

Couple Counselling:

Improving communication

Being in an intimate relationship can be very rewarding, but it often involves hard work. Fairy tales and Hollywood never show what happens in the "happily ever after". Most often couples seek counselling to improve communication and build more intimacy into their relationship. I help identify the issues that impede good communication and at times act as interpreter to help partners understand each other better.

Sex, intimacy and betrayal

Most clients would say the three most common areas of conflict are: sex, money, and the division of labour. Intimacy and desire wane in longer term relationships and often couples need help removing the obstacles that block the path to great sex. Also affairs and other infidelities can strain relationships to the breaking point.

I am ready to get down to the nitty-gritty to help couples out of the hurt and anger of betrayal and help them move to a new and happier place. Fights about money and labour are often a cloak for deeper issues about love, attachment and respect for differences. I help couples identify what issues are really being triggered so that true and fair negotiations can take place.

When separations happen

Unfortunately there are times when separations happen. Even if it is for the best, anger and hurt are common reactions. There is a loss that needs to be grieved. Alone or with your partner, we can explore how to ease the pain and support you through this crazy time.

Family Counselling:

All members affect and are affected by the families in which they live, Our families help shape who we are and how we manage in life. Sometimes the entire family needs to meet and work through issues as a group. I work intergenerationally to help members find comfortable roles for themselves in their families. Roles that are both age appropriate and respectful of other members. In these cases, everyone's thoughts and needs are sought and respected, and each person plays a significant role in the solution.

I would be happy to speak with you to help decide if therapy is right for you. No concern is too small - if it is affecting your life, it is worth talking about.