What Is Psychotherapy?

A journey of Self-discovery and healing.

Psychotherapy is a structured, collaborative process in which a trained therapist works with you to understand and address emotional, psychological, and behavioural challenges. It draws on evidence-based frameworks and is adapted to the individual — what you bring to therapy, and what you want from it, shapes how sessions unfold.

People seek psychotherapy for a wide range of reasons: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship stress, life transitions, grief, burnout, and more. There is no single presenting concern that defines who therapy is "for." If something is getting in your way, psychotherapy can help you make sense of it and find a path through.

At Whole Self Wellness, we offer psychotherapy in Winnipeg both in-person at our Portage Avenue location and online for clients across Manitoba and Ontario.

How We Approach Psychotherapy at Whole Self Wellness

Whole Self Wellness was founded by Alanna Jones, MSW, RSW, a Winnipeg-based psychotherapist with advanced specializations in EMDR (including DeTUR and N.E.S.T. protocols), somatic therapy, and trauma-informed care. Alanna's practice is rooted in the belief that healing happens through the whole person — mind, body, and spirit — and that approach shapes everything about how therapy is offered here.

Our team of therapists draws on a range of evidence-informed modalities, including:

Sessions are individualized. There is no one-size-fits-all protocol — your therapist works with you to identify what approaches will be most useful for your goals. Our clinic is explicitly inclusive, affirming, and trauma-informed, and welcomes clients from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, including LGBTQIA2S+ and ENM individuals.

Meet Our Therapists

Our team brings a range of specialized training and clinical backgrounds. Alanna Jones, MSW, RSW specializes in EMDR and trauma-informed care. Janelle Hebb, RMFT brings 10 years of experience with EMDR, somatics, and attachment-based therapy. Sabrina Hogan, M.Ed., C.C.C. focuses on DBT, trauma recovery, and work with children and adolescents. Tatiana Murray, MSW, RSW has 15+ years of clinical experience across anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, and perinatal mental health.

Visit our Service Providers page to learn more about each therapist and find the right fit.

What to Expect from Psychotherapy at Whole Self Wellness

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Initial Session

Your first appointment is focused on getting to know you — your history, your current challenges, and what you are hoping to work on. Your therapist will ask questions and listen, and you can ask questions in return. There is no pressure to share more than you are ready to.
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Ongoing Sessions

Sessions are typically 50 minutes, with 75, 90, and 120-minute options available for clients who benefit from extended work (including intensive EMDR). Your therapist will check in on your goals regularly and adjust the approach as your needs evolve.
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Format

Psychotherapy is available in-person at our clinic at 3723 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, or online via a secure video platform. Both formats are equally valid options — many clients switch between them based on their schedule and preferences.

What Psychotherapy Can Help You Work Toward

Psychotherapy outcomes vary depending on the individual and the nature of the work. Clients commonly report:

  • Reduced distress from anxiety, depression, and trauma: Many clients experience meaningful relief from persistent emotional symptoms after consistent therapeutic work.
  • Greater self-understanding: Therapy can help you identify patterns in your thinking, behaviour, and relationships — and understand where they come from.
  • Improved day-to-day functioning: Whether the goal is better sleep, less reactivity in relationships, or a clearer sense of direction, therapy supports practical, liveable change.

Frequently Asked Questions About Psychotherapy in Winnipeg

Psychotherapy can be helpful for a wide range of concerns — from acute distress to ongoing personal development. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply want a dedicated space to work through something, it is worth exploring. A consultation can help clarify whether our approach is a good fit.

In Manitoba, "psychotherapist" and "counsellor" are often used interchangeably by the public, though regulatory distinctions exist. At Whole Self Wellness, our lead therapist Alanna Jones holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) and is a Registered Social Worker (RSW) in Manitoba, with extensive postgraduate training in trauma-informed modalities.

This varies significantly by individual and presenting concern. Some clients benefit from short-term focused work (8–12 sessions), while others engage in longer-term therapy. Your therapist will discuss realistic expectations with you early in the process.

Research consistently supports the effectiveness of online therapy for most presenting concerns. Whole Self Wellness offers secure video sessions for clients across Manitoba and Ontario. Some clients prefer in-person; others find online more accessible. Both are offered here.

Individual psychotherapy is the primary offering on this page. For couples work, visit our Couples Counselling page. Additional services are listed under our services menu.

Ready to Get Started?

Whole Self Wellness has therapists available for individual psychotherapy in-person at our Portage Avenue clinic and online across Manitoba and Ontario. We are open Monday through Sunday, 8am to 9pm.

Book directly with Alanna Jones through her online scheduling: Book with Alanna

Not sure who to book with, or looking for a different therapist? Janelle, Sabrina, and Tatiana each bring distinct specializations and are accepting new clients. Contact our office and we will help connect you with the right fit.

BOOK WITH ALANNA BOOK WITH OUR TEAM