FAQ

Northshore East Stress and Trauma Clinic (NEST) is a leading psychotherapy centre focusing on first responders, frontline workers and the military. Our areas of care include PTSD, stress and complex trauma, compassion fatigue, moral injury, insomnia and depression.

An experienced first responder and frontline worker therapist understands the culture and unique work challenges of the frontline. This understanding is foundational to working with them and using the most effective, latest evidence-based treatments to address their challenges faster. At NEST, we "get" working with first responders. With over 75 years of combined experience, our therapists have worked with hundreds of frontline clients to help them make healthy, sustainable change. 

ItemOur therapists are registered or highly trained qualifying psychotherapists who offer specialized training in trauma therapies with specializations in EMDRIA, CBT, CPT, DBT and Brainspotting. When you work with a certified trauma therapist, you are receiving evidence-based therapies that will support your journey to healing based on thousands of hours of clinical experience, supervision and training in helping clients.   description

We often provide counselling to first responders, their spouses and their families to provide a holistic approach to healing.  We believe in sharing the Roadmap to Recovery and ensuring that couples and families stay unified while healing.

We guide our clients through the WSIB process of understanding options, applying for WSIB if required, arranging referrals for assessment, and working with WSIB providers to support treatment goals. 

Yes. In Ontario, your therapist is legally and ethically bound by PHIPA (Personal Health Information Protection Act) to keep your information private. Exceptions apply only for safety concerns (e.g., risk of harm to self or others).

No, not without your written consent. Even if you're using an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), the details of your sessions stay private.

In most cases, no. Getting help is seen as proactive and responsible. However, if you're in a regulated profession or applying for psychological clearance (e.g., to return to active duty), some disclosures may be necessary. Our experienced therapists will guide you through that carefully.

No. Our therapists use approaches like CBT, EMDRIA, and Somatic Therapy that help without retelling every detail. At NEST, you're always in control of your healing journey and what you share.

Some people feel a shift in 4–6 sessions, others stay longer-term. Your goals and needs shape the timeline, and with NEST, you’re in charge every step of the way.

No. Therapy works well on its own for many. But if symptoms are severe, your NEST therapist may recommend talking to a family doctor or psychiatrist. In Ontario, a referral to a psychiatrist is covered by OHIP.

Totally valid. Many Ontario therapists work holistically by integrating breathwork, movement, EMDRIA or narrative therapy.

Yes. For crisis or peer support:

• Ontario First Responders’ Helpline: 1-866-279-3553

• Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566

• Wounded Warriors Canada: Specialized programs for PTSD and OSI