Why choose the Heitmann Centre?

If you have been through other services and struggled to connect, DON’T GIVE UP! Ms. Heitmann has worked with many clients that have been referred to her after difficult experiences in our system but have found that they are able to connect with Cara differently and have found a safe and understanding space in which to do the therapy work they are hoping to do. Whether you are looking for psychotherapy to work on issues of trauma, anxiety, depression, or any of the other issues we deal with, Cara is nonjudgmental, is honestly interested in your story and your future, and will work hard to help you achieve your goals in a safe, pleasant, and comfortable virtual environment.

What makes The Heitmann Centre different from other treatment centres?

We aspire to make The Heitmann Centre a safe, comfortable and inviting place even in a virtual setting. We will challenge you in the areas that are holding you back but will always do it with care and kindness. We are genuinely interested in your story and helping you reach your therapy goals.

Where is The Heitmann Centre located?

We are now entirely virtual!! And we offer phone sessions as well if the internet is not a comfrotable place for you.

How long will treatment take/when can I expect to see results?

There is no way to answer this question. My goal is always to help you get to a stage where you are healthily independent but each individual’s journey is unique and cannot be predicted.

Who can benefit from services at The Heitmann Centre?

Literally anyone! I am a firm believer that everyone should do therapy at least once in their lives. It might also be helpful to navigate to our SERVICES page for more info.

Is therapy hard?

Yes. Therapy can be quite difficult. But it is worth it. At the end of the day going on living with the issues that brought you to therapy in the first place is much harder than doing the work that will allow you to move on.

Do I have to return if I take advantage of your offer of a FREE initial consultation?

Absolutely not! You are welcome and encouraged to move ahead with psychotherapy in whatever way makes you comfortable with whatever therapist you feel comfortable with.

How often will we meet?

Cara tends to see patients once every two weeks. That said, when folks are struggling she will increase the frequency of those sessions as required. She will also see people less frequently either due to time constraints, financial constraints, or when someone is just looking for the option of checking in.

Can I bring someone with me?

We do allow family members/loved ones to attend previously arranged sessions if it is deemed productive by you and your therapist in reaching your therapy goals.

Do I have to take medication?

Absolutely not. Cara is a firm believer that there is a time and a place for medication and finds that many patients prefer to see if therapy can help them enough to be able to avoid medication. That said there will be times when Cara will recommend that you see your physician to discuss psychotropic medications to support your mental health. She will never insist as this is a very personal decision.

How do I get my loved one or other family member to attend counseling?

The short answer is you don’t. Therapy is a very individual thing and each person has to come to the decision that they need help on their own. If someone is forced or coerced into therapy the outcome is less likely to be positive but it can work depending on the circumstances and individuals involved.

Are you 2SLGBTQ+ friendly?

Yes. The Heitmann Centre is a 2SLGBTQ+ (Two-Spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning and additional sexual orientations and gender identities) + space and all genders, gender identities, social locations, sexual identities, sexual preferences, and ethnic backgrounds are respected and welcomed.

Do you work with indigenous peoples?

Yes, Cara has worked with individuals from the First Nations and Inuit communities and is culturally sensitive and appropriate. Cara is also registered with the NIHB (non insured health benefits) to make therapy for Indigenous and Inuit individuals more accessible.

Do you work with military members, first responders and their families?

Yes, The Heitmann Centre is registered with Medavie Blue Cross so that military members can access services here. Cara has successfully worked with military members and first responders (police, fire and ambulance) facing PTSD and other challenges.

Have you ever treated anyone who is in a polyamorous relationship?

Yes, Cara has worked with many individuals involved in and embarking on poly relationships. She will treat your relationship choices with the respect and discretion she would any hetero normative relationship as there is no reason to do differently.

Are you well versed in dissociative disorders?

Yes, Cara has worked with individuals with trauma histories for many years. As a result she has also helped many individuals successfully address dissociation and its repercussions.

What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy is an evidence-based psychotherapy that has some strong concrete skills to offer. These skills will help the client to deal with painful emotions and challenging relationships more readily. It was originally created for people living with Borderline Personality Disorder but has been found to be effective across populations. DBT offers an approach that encompasses the idea that you re perfect exactly as you are yet acknowledges that you have changes you need to make to live the life you want to live. It is strongly validation rich and highly effective.

What is Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)?

EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) is one of the quickest ways we have to address trauma issues. It is a therapy that allows one to reprocess stuck information (trauma), allowing the participant to move forward in their healing. This is an evidence-based treatment that has approximately 20 controlled studies proving its efficacy in alleviating the distress associated with traumatic memories.

What can I expect from my first session?

We offer your first session for free so you can get a sense of who Cara is and how she works and if that suits you. She will ask you to fill out an intake form with basic information and will discuss what brings you to therapy and how Cara might be able to support you. The session will be approximately an hour and there will be no pressure whatsoever to book a second session.

Is there anything I should bring or do to prepare for our first session?

There is nothing you need to do or bring for your first session but that said, you may want to think of what questions you may have for Cara and write them down so you don’t forget. She will be happy to answer any questions you have for her.

Are your services covered by OHIP or insurance?

Cara is a registered social worker with a Masrer's Degree (MSW). OHIP does not cover therapy with a Psychotherapist but many insurance plans do. Be sure to check with your insurance company in advance to confirm.

Do you have evening and weekend hours?

We are not open on weekends but we do offer week night sessions with our last session of the day ending at 7pm.