My Approach

 I work with individuals and couples who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma and relationship issues.

My approach to counselling is holistic, which means that I consider all aspects of an individual - mind, body and spirit, as well as social context (intimate relationships, family, friends, work/school/retirement).  Sometimes we need to address more than one area of our life in order to move forward. 

Counselling is an opportunity to create positive change in one’s life.  This process may be just a few sessions to learn some new strategies for coping with a particular challenge or it may be a decision to do some significant inner work to address a long standing issue. Either way, we will work towards your stated goals and regularly review your progress.  I offer practical tools such as, relaxation and grounding tools, challenging negative thoughts, self-compassion, assertiveness and mindfulness skills.  In addition,  I offer reading suggestions and skills to practice between sessions.  

I also offer the opportunity to do some deeper processing work for those wanting relief from painful life experiences such as childhood/adult traumas, accidents, assault, PTSD, divorce, illness, grief and loss.  I am certified in both EMDR and Focusing Oriented Therapy which are particularly effective for reducing the emotional pain and triggering that often causes disruption in one's life and relationships.  The past need not dictate your future anymore.   

I have training and  certification in the following approaches:

• EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) 
• Focusing Oriented Therapy
• Trauma Informed Therapy
• Bodynamics
• LifeForce Yoga Practitioner for Anxiety, Depression & Trauma
• Mindfulness
• Family Systems
• CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy)
• Emotional Focused Therapy for Couples 

Research has shown that the most important factor in successful therapy (creating change) is the therapeutic relationship between the client and therapist.  As it turns out, it matters less about the type of therapy that a therapist offers and much more about a good ‘fit’ between therapist and client.  Clients need to feel safe and comfortable with the therapist’s approach.  I offer a free 15-minute consultation by phone to answer questions and to allow you to determine whether there is a good ‘fit’ before booking an appointment.

"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of overcoming it." 

Helen Keller

"Believe in yourself. You are braver than you think, more talented than you know, and capable of more than you imagine."

Roy T. Bennett