In-Person or Virtual? We Can Help You Decide.

At Switzer Counselling & Psychotherapy Associates, we prefer in-person psychotherapy whenever it is possible. We believe there is something valuable about being in the same room as your therapist that can be difficult to fully recreate online. In-person therapy allows for a more direct, face-to-face experience and a dedicated space for your therapeutic work. Many clients find that being physically present with their therapist helps them feel more connected, focused, and engaged in their sessions.

If you are able to attend in person, we encourage you to try it and experience the difference for yourself. You may find that the connection, focus, and presence of in-person therapy make your sessions feel different from meeting online.

At the same time, virtual psychotherapy can be an important and effective way to access care when attending in person is difficult or not practical. We want you to be able to continue receiving support when circumstances make in-person appointments challenging.

Virtual sessions can offer:

No commute, making appointments easier to fit into your schedule.

The ability to continue therapy when you cannot attend in person.

Access to your therapist from a private location with a reliable internet connection.

The convenience of using a computer, tablet, or other supported device.

The comfort of participating from your own home.

Greater continuity of care when illness or other circumstances make travel difficult

Increased accessibility for people with disabilities, mobility limitations, severe social anxiety, or other barriers to attending in person

Virtual psychotherapy can be a valuable option, particularly when attending in person is not possible. However, when you have the choice, we encourage you to consider starting with in-person therapy.

For some people, being physically present with their therapist creates a stronger sense of connection and focus and provides a more dedicated therapeutic environment. For others, virtual therapy may be the option that allows them to access and continue care.

Your therapist will also consider whether virtual psychotherapy is appropriate for your individual circumstances, needs, and goals. Registered Psychotherapists are required to practise in a way that is appropriate, safe, and within professional standards, regardless of whether therapy is provided in person or through electronic means.

This means your therapist will ask questions about your circumstances and discuss the format of therapy with you rather than simply assuming that virtual therapy is suitable. The goal is to make sure you are receiving therapy in a format that allows you to get the most from your sessions while maintaining your safety and well-being.

If your therapist feels that in-person therapy would better support your needs, they will discuss that with you. In some circumstances, a different approach or additional support may also be recommended.

You do not need to download special software or install an app. You can access your sessions through a web browser using a computer, tablet, or compatible device with an internet or Wi-Fi connection.

Not sure which option is right for you? 

Contact us. We can talk with you about your circumstances, your needs, and what may be appropriate  for you.

For clients who choose or need virtual psychotherapy, Switzer Counselling & Psychotherapy Associates uses OWL, a secure, web-based telemedicine platform integrated with our practice management system.

OWL is widely used by Canadian mental health professionals and provides a convenient way to participate in psychotherapy sessions online while maintaining a secure connection between you and your therapist.

You will not receive a new meeting link for every appointment. Instead, you will access your session through your secure Switzer client portal.

At the time of your appointment:

1. Log into your Switzer client portal
2. Go to your scheduled appointment
3. Select the option to join your online session
4. Meet with your therapist virtually through the secure platform

This means your appointment information and access to your session are connected to your client account rather than being sent to you through separate email links.

Your Switzer client portal is your secure online connection to our practice. Depending on your account and the services you use, the portal may also provide access to appointment information, forms, communications, and other aspects of your care.

Client Portal:
https://aws-portal.owlpractice.ca/switzercounselling