Our Services
Individual Counselling
I assist clients in addressing various life challenges such as anxiety, depression, chronic pain, sexual trauma, grief, and loss. Through individual counselling, you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, gain clarity on what may be helpful, and enhance your ability to make positive changes in your life. Depending on your unique situation and needs, counseling can help you develop coping strategies for life stressors, explore different options for problem-solving, improve your relationships and connections with others, and provide access to valuable information or resources to support you on your life journey.
Couples Counselling
Are you and your partner facing challenges as a new couple, such as navigating blended families or moving in together? It's common to feel overwhelmed, confused, or uncertain about how to navigate these complex situations. The Gottman Method for Making Relationships Work is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy that recognizes the importance of building a strong foundation, effectively managing conflicts, and supporting each other's aspirations for the future.
As a couples counsellor, I can provide guidance as you navigate the unique challenges of starting a new life together, such as blended families or moving in together. It's important to acknowledge that these situations can present unexpected stressors and complexities. Everyday hurdles can sometimes result in misunderstandings, disagreements, and breakdowns in communication. This can leave partners feeling discouraged and stuck in negative patterns. However, with the right tools, couples can break these damaging cycles. Couples counseling that utilizes the evidence-based Gottman Method emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation of friendship, learning effective conflict management skills, and creating ways to support each other's dreams for the future, ultimately helping couples navigate the challenges of blended families and living together successfully.
Modalities Used
Gottman Method of Couples Therapy
With over three decades of research on couples, John Gottman has achieved an astounding 93% accuracy in predicting divorce rates. Gottman's therapy approach utilizes this wealth of data to assist couples in enhancing their friendship, navigating conflict, and mutually supporting each other's aspirations for the future.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Couples Therapy commences by providing education on ineffective interaction patterns within the partnership, and collaboratively identifying strategies to restore their effectiveness. Through joint assessment, the therapist and couple explore how these patterns manifest in their relationship. Therapy sessions then serve as a platform for the couple to practice communication skills, with the therapist serving as a coach, particularly when addressing challenging topics. The process also focuses on developing strategies for accepting and managing core differences within the relationship.
Polyvagal Theory
Polyvagal Theory is a therapeutic approach rooted in neuroscientific concepts of brain signals and activation. It focuses on how our bodies physiologically and neurobiologically react to stress and perceived danger, often resulting in freezing responses. In therapy sessions, clients learn about the vagal system and how to activate it to combat freezing, through techniques such as deep breathing and fostering social connections. Polyvagal Theory is commonly used to treat symptoms resulting from traumatic experiences, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and requires working with a certified therapist trained in trauma-informed care for optimal results.
Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy is a therapeutic approach that focuses on helping individuals disentangle themselves from their problems, enabling them to view their issues as separate entities rather than internalizing them. This approach empowers individuals to rely on their own strengths and sense of purpose to navigate challenging situations.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
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EMDR focuses on reprocessing memories, integrating them in a healthier way. This process activates your natural healing mechanisms, fostering resilience and empowering you to overcome past events.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, for adaptive processing, leading to lasting positive change.
Whether dealing with trauma or anxiety, EMDR offers a path to healing.