Ontario
I have taught meditation and mindfulness extensively, including as an instructor at the University of Toronto for 10 years. I bring many years of experience to sharing evidence based techniques and tools for addressing a range of life problems. I support individuals to live more joyfully, peacefully and with authenticity.
In your first session with me, I will work with you to develop your therapeutic goals, and conduct a scientifically-based and thorough assessment that will help you gain a greater understanding of your concerns, as well the unique strengths you possess that will help you achieve your goals.
Individual, couple and family counselling, to address stress management, anxiety and depression, conflict, relationship breakdown, life transitions and support for caregivers. Models used include Cognitive Behavioural and Narrative Therapies, Solution Focussed Therapy.
Play-based therapy for children addressing anxiety, depression, and adjustment to separation/divorce. Effective strategies are provided for those dealing with chronic pain. I can direct people to find solutions via useful resources online or in the community.
With 19 years of post Master of Social Work (MSW, Wilfrid Laurier University, 1998) experience, Connie brings a well informed perspective to clinical practice. She offers a holistic approach to mental health and wellbeing that is evidence based, creative and spiritual.
Experienced in working with women, children, men, couples, families and agencies, Connie has a certificate from U of T in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy as well as training in CBT, concurrent disorders, mindfulness/meditation, solution focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, emotion focused interventions, narrative therapy, experiential therapies and addiction treatment. Connie is also an Assistant Clinical Professor (Adjunct) with McMaster’s Department of Family Medicine teaching Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences.
I have particular skill to work with multihome and blended families. I am trained in Family Mediation related to separation/divorce, parenting plans, custody/access, estrangement, and family reconciliation. I conduct professional assessments and make recommendations for custody/access, as well as children’s views. Assessments are thorough and professional.
Conveniently located near downtown Guelph. Free parking. Daytime and evening appointments.
I supervise several ACT therapists around the Ottawa area (central and south). In the event you wish to meet with another ACT therapist (including a woman or Francophone therapist), I would be happy to provide you with a referral.
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.
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.
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..