Balens Therapy is a psychotherapy practice that offers individualized mental health support for people navigating stress, burnout, life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma and more. We blend evidence-based approaches with nature-inspired elements to promote healing and empowerment.

Balens is inspired by the word “balance,” with a soft, grounding twist. It reflects our belief in finding calm, resilience, and connection, even in life’s messier moments.

“Psychotherapy is a type of treatment that can help individuals experiencing a wide array of mental health conditions and emotional challenges. Psychotherapy can help not only alleviate symptoms but also, certain types of psychotherapies can help identify the psychological root causes of one’s condition so a person can function better and have enhanced emotional well-being and healing” (American Psychotherapy Association, 2023).

In the province of Ontario, Psychotherapy is considered a controlled act that may only be performed by regulated health professionals authorized to do so. For more information about Understanding when Psychotherapy is a controlled act click here.

A Registered Nurse Psychotherapist is a Psychotherapist practicing under the restricted title of Registered Nurse, who is competently practicing with the appropriate knowledge, skill and judgment to perform the controlled act of psychotherapy. “Based on the RHPA definition, there are five elements in the controlled act and All five elements must be met to be performing the controlled act” (CNO, 2023).

Psychotherapy is a structured, evidence-based treatment delivered by licensed mental health professionals to address diagnosable mental health conditions or significant psychological distress. It involves specific therapeutic modalities (such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or acceptance and commitment therapy) and is regulated by professional standards, training, and licensure requirements. The primary aim is to alleviate symptoms, improve functioning, and address underlying psychological issues.

Counseling generally refers to a supportive, problem-focused, and often shorter-term intervention that helps individuals address specific life challenges, stressors, or decision-making. Counseling may be provided by a range of professionals, including licensed counselors, social workers, or physicians, and is commonly used in primary care for psychosocial issues or health behavior change. Counseling is less intensive than psychotherapy and may not address complex or chronic mental health disorders.

Coaching is a non-clinical, goal-oriented process focused on personal or professional development, performance enhancement, or well-being in individuals who are not experiencing significant psychological distress or mental illness. Coaches are not required to have mental health training or licensure, and the field is largely unregulated. Coaching emphasizes goal setting, accountability, and the optimization of strengths, but does not treat mental disorders or provide clinical interventions.

Your first session is a chance to get to know your therapist, explore your goals, and begin creating a roadmap for your care. We’ll talk about what brings you in, answer any questions you have, and ensure it feels like a good fit.

Private Psychotherapy is not covered under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Private psychotherapy is, however, covered under many extended health insurance plans. Not all insurance providers recognize Registered Nurses as a Psychotherapist although RNs are regulated to perform psychotherapy. You may have to check directly with your insurance provider to see if it is covered. Regardless, receipts are provided, which can be utilized for reimbursement from insurance companies or as a medical expense claim on your income tax. Clarify with your insurance provider if services will be covered.

We incorporate elements of ecotherapy and horticultural therapy into our work, such as metaphors from nature, grounding exercises, or optional plant-based self-care strategies. It’s a gentle, supportive approach…not a requirement.

Yes. Your privacy is a top priority. All sessions are confidential within the limits of the law, and we’ll review this fully in your intake session.