You do not have to have everything figured out to start. Choose the answer that feels most honest right now.
Thoughtful, evidence-informed therapy for the moments that are difficult to carry alone.
A private space to slow down, understand what you are carrying, and move toward meaningful change.
Explore individual therapySupport for understanding each other more clearly, repairing patterns, and building a stronger connection.
Explore couples therapyTrauma-informed approaches that can help difficult experiences feel less overwhelming and more manageable.
Explore EMDR therapyWhat happens first? How do you choose a therapist? Will insurance cover it? Here are some of the questions we hear most often from people in Thunder Bay and across Ontario.
You do not need to prepare a speech or know exactly what to say. Your first appointment is an opportunity to talk about what brought you in, what has been happening, and what you would like to be different.
Your therapist will explain how therapy works, answer your questions, and begin developing a plan with you. If you would rather speak with someone first, start with a free 15-minute consultation.
That is more common than you might think. You do not need a diagnosis, a clear explanation, or a treatment goal before reaching out.
Sometimes the starting point is simply: Something does not feel right anymore. We can work from there.
Different therapists bring different experiences, personalities, areas of focus, and approaches. You can explore our therapists and choose someone whose profile feels relevant to you.
If you are unsure, a free consultation can help. And if the fit does not feel right after you begin, you can talk with us about another therapist. The right fit matters.
There is no single script. Sessions may involve talking through what has been happening, understanding patterns, learning practical strategies, processing difficult experiences, developing skills, or working toward changes that matter to you.
Your therapist explains the approach being used and works with you rather than simply telling you what to do.
We support people experiencing many concerns, including:
You do not need to see your concern on this list for therapy to be worth exploring.
Our clinicians draw from evidence-based approaches including CBT, ACT, EMDR, EMDR 2.0, CPT, PGDT, IPSRT, DBT, IFS-informed, polyvagal-informed, and trauma-informed approaches.
Your therapist will determine which approaches may be appropriate based on your circumstances, preferences, and goals.
EMDR is a structured psychotherapy approach that can help people process distressing experiences and memories that continue to affect them. At BelMind Therapeia, EMDR is provided by clinicians trained in the approach.
Your therapist will explain the process, answer questions, and make sure you understand what to expect before beginning.
Yes. BelMind Therapeia offers in-person therapy at our Thunder Bay clinic and virtual appointments for clients eligible for virtual care. You can choose the format that works best for your circumstances.
Some people begin weekly; others may benefit from every two weeks or another frequency. Your therapist will discuss this with you rather than assuming one schedule fits everyone.
Most individual therapy appointments are 50 minutes. Your therapist will clarify the appropriate length for your service.
Private psychotherapy is generally not covered by OHIP. You may have coverage through an employer extended-health plan, another insurer, or a specific public program.
We offer direct billing for eligible plans and programs where available. Coverage varies, so please check with your insurer before your appointment.
Yes. BelMind Therapeia provides direct billing for eligible mental health counselling through NIHB. For eligible clients, NIHB currently provides up to 22 hours of mental health counselling per year; additional coverage may be available in exceptional circumstances.
Coverage remains subject to eligibility, authorization, and program requirements. Contact us if you would like the process explained.
No referral is needed to contact BelMind directly. We also accept appropriate referrals from physicians, health professionals, Indigenous organizations, community organizations, families, and other partners.
If you are referring someone, use our referral form or contact the clinic for assistance.
BelMind Therapeia welcomes Indigenous individuals and communities seeking culturally informed counselling. We recognize that identity, family, community, relationships, values, and experiences can shape how people understand wellness and healing.
Our clinicians aim to create space for these factors rather than assuming one model of care fits everyone.
Confidentiality is essential to therapy. Your therapist will explain confidentiality and its legal and professional limits at the beginning of care, including situations involving serious risk of harm, child or vulnerable-person safety, or legal and court requirements.
You are encouraged to ask questions about privacy at any point.
We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice when cancelling or rescheduling. Late cancellations and missed appointments may be subject to a fee.
Our policy is not intended to be punitive. We understand that life can be unpredictable and approach these situations with clinical judgment and flexibility where appropriate.
No. BelMind Therapeia provides scheduled counselling and psychotherapy and is not an emergency or crisis service. If you require immediate assistance, use local emergency or crisis services.
BelMind Therapeia is a therapeutic space in Thunder Bay where everyone can access evidence-based, trauma-informed, and culturally aware counselling and psychotherapy.
But it’s more than that
BelMind is also a process of making mental health and wellbeing a lifestyle.
#DiscoverTheBeautyWithin
Vimal Thomas, MSW, RSW
Clinical Director & Founder, BelMind Therapeia
Counselling and Psychotherapy in Thunder Bay!