Canada
It has always been my deepest passion to understand the human mind and behaviour. As a Clinical Psychologist, in addition to better understanding the individual, I aim to help others to better understand themselves. My doctoral degree in Counselling & Clinical Psychology (University of Toronto) and a post-doctoral fellowship training (Eating Disorders Program, The Ottawa Hospital) have allowed me to delve into the creative facets of clinical psychology as well as the scientific aspect.
The therapeutic relationship is a safe place for you to understand past issues and core beliefs as you gain insight and strength to address current challenges. Whether you prefer a psychodynamic approach or a mindfulness cognitive behavioural treatment (CBT) approach, counselling will assist you in resolving past issues and achieving your personal wellness goals.
Some of my specialities are working with clients who are experiencing relationship issues, grief, alcohol and drug, marital conflict, depression and anxiety, financial, separation and divorce issues . As well I do anger management and domestic violence counselling with both men and women.
Fees are based on a sliding scale according to household income. I also do Employee Assistance counselling and working with Victims of crime.
I strive to offer a therapeutic space that is collaborative and non-judgemental. I balance understanding and accepting clients as they are with promoting positive change. I tailor therapy to clients’ specific needs, working primarily from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-based approaches.
My strong background in trauma, attachment, family systems and developmental needs enhances my work. I integrate CBT, Narrative, Solution Focused, Mindfullness, Play Therapy and other modalities. Together we will work from a strengths based perspective and will explore and remove obstacles to well-being. I often use creative means of expression to reach goals.
I bring a deep respect and appreciation for the uniqueness of each individual, attuned to their many strengths, hopes and dreams. Whether you are a parent concerned about your child, an adult seeking individual or marital counselling, or an individual seeking positive family changes, I will work with you collaboratively to achieve your goals.
I have been working in the counselling field since 1970, receiving my PhD in Counselling Psychology from The University of Alberta in 1992. I was licensed in California in 1980 as a Marriage, Family, and Child Therapist. In 1989 I became registered as a Psychologist in Alberta. I have completed levels I and II of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy training from the EMDR Institute in 1998.
I have spent more than 20 years listening to people who are struggling to cope with issues in their lives. What is the difference between the ones who end up in a better condition and those that don’t? Work. The ones who end up in a better condition are the ones who put effort into change. Some have to work really hard and some less so. The question is this: What will You do? Are you ready to do the work to be in a better condition? Let me know if you are.
Regression therapy takes you back to the initial sensitive event, in this life, the womb, or a past life. It doesn’t matter where the initial trigger came from – that’s where the memory or emotion came into the body. Also the Third Circle Protocol works developing a respectful loving relationship with self and others..
I have completed extensive certificate training in the area of Play Therapy and enjoy working with children and adolescents and their families. For children, play is their natural form of communication. I have also completed training in the area of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and find working with couples very rewarding.
My practice is influenced by: Client Centered Therapy, Humanistic models, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Techniques, Emotionally Focused Therapies and Play Therapy.
My work is a blend of: Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Humanistic Psychology, and Jungian Archetypes and Symbols.