About Me
I am a registered psychotherapist with a Masters of Education degree in Counselling Psychology and a Masters of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in Developmental and Educational Psychology. I specialize in helping children, teens, and adults develop learning and motivational strategies to approach difficult challenges and transitions in their school and work lives. By honouring my clients' unique personalities, interests, and strengths, I foster a collaborative relationship and work to create a welcoming, non-judgmental environment where clients can talk about difficulties they may be experiencing at school or work.
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I use research-informed treatment approaches to support children and adults as they experience mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, suicidality, self-harm, personal crises, or recovery from trauma. I have particularly trained to work with children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, ASD, and other learning disabilities. Recently I completed an intensive certification in eating disorders. I also have training to support people who are experiencing complicated grief or trauma.
Specializing in the Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Grief, & Adolescent and Child Mental Health
Anxiety
I use research-informed approaches such as cognitive behaviour therapy, graduated systematic desensitization therapy, and exposure response prevention therapy to treat OCD.
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Using playful exercises, clients learn mindfulness practices and self-soothing strategies to manage anxiety.
Depression
My main tool is the creation of a safe, warm, non-judgmental environment where client's can process their thoughts, fears, and challenges.
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Together, we collaborate to problem solve, develop strategies, and engage in behaviour activation exercises to break the cycle of depression.
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I use cognitive behavioural therapy, attachment theory, and acceptance commitment therapy in a developmentally informed manner.
ADHD & Learning Disabilities
I have both studied and lived the experience of parenting a child with ADHD and other learning disabilities.
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Using a strength-based approach and through playful exercises and activities, I help clients to understand how their unique brain works. I explain to clients what executive functioning skills are and ways to develop these skills fully. I teach strategies to self-regulate emotions and behaviours.
Grief support
As a volunteer with Bereaved Families of Ontario for three years, I acquired many resources for supporting children, adults, and families through grief.
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Trauma
My approach is informed by polyvagal theory.
https://niallmckeever.com/polyvagal-theory-simple-introduction/
In a calm, safe environment, clients learn how their nervous system works. I help clients change unhelpful ways of responding to threats and develop ways to regulate their nervous system through different states.
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By working together, co-regulation occurs and clients develop new ways of coping with challenges.