Therapeutic Approach

Trauma-Informed Practice: Trauma-Informed Practice is a strengths-based framework grounded in an understanding of and responsiveness to the impact of trauma. It emphasizes physical, psychological, and emotional safety for everyone, and creates opportunities for those impacted by various forms of trauma to rebuild a sense of control and empowerment.

Evidence Based Practice: The Evidence-Based Practice approach balances a client’s individual preferences, the nature of the particular concern a client come to counselling with, the most effective research-based methods available, and a combination of local resources and the clinical expertise of the counsellor.

Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the concept of moving our awareness to various focal points.  It is a method of becoming present or aware of the things we are experiencing in this very moment. When the focus is shifted to something in the present moment, our bodies respond by relaxing – perhaps at first only slightly, but as we engage with the moment – we begin to relax more and more.

Attachment-Based: Attachment-Based Therapy is form of counselling that applies to interventions or approaches based on attachment theory, which explains how the relationship primary caregivers have with their children influences development (emotional, psychological, physical, etc.).

EMDR: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an information processing therapy using bilateral movement (eyes, taps, tones, buzzers) that helps clients cope with trauma, addictions, and phobias. I have extensive training in EMDR as a practitioner, and this can be done online or in person.

Person Centered: Person-Centered Therapy uses a non-authoritative approach that allows clients to take more of a lead in discussions so that, in the process, they will discover their own solutions. The therapist acts as a compassionate facilitator and is there to encourage and support the client.

Emotion Focused: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is an approach to therapy that helps clients identify their emotions, learn to explore and experience them, understand, and manage them. I use this approach in both my individual and couples therapy sessions.

Reflective Listening: Reflective Listening is the skill of deliberately listening to your partner with the intention of understanding (not just reacting) to their position, and then reflecting it back to them to make sure that you got it right. This leads to greater understanding and appreciation of experiences. It allows us to feel seen, understood, and validated. I use this approach in couples therapy sessions.