
My Approach
I'm an experienced psychotherapist that uses compassion, understanding and humor to help you accept yourself as you are and work on creating healthy changes.
I use (and have been trained in) various therapeutic modalities, and will tailor my approach to your unique strengths.
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Are you overly critical and struggle with perfectionism and procrastination? Mindfulness-based Self-compassion and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) might be helpful.
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Do you struggle with controlling your emotions or on the flip side feel numb? A Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) informed approach might be beneficial.
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If you're consumed by negative thoughts or find yourself engaging in unhealthy behaviours then Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) might help build coping skills.
I've received training from the Gottman Institute in couples therapy, DBT Skills training through the Linehan Institute and Mindfulness-based Self-Compassion training from Drs. Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer .
In addition, I work from an anti-oppressive, anti-racist framework and have received training in this area as well as Four Seasons of Reconciliation education through the First Nations University of Canada.
I believe in life-long learning and I'm an avid reader. I've learned the most, however, from the clients I've worked with in the past and now.
I am also the wife of an incredibly wise grain farmer and grateful to be involved with the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance.
I have been a member of the Waterloo-Wellington Eating Disorder Coalition since 2007 and have received training in supporting those who struggle with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image issues.
I primarily provide psychotherapy for young adults and adults (18+) and I'm grateful to have a few clinical openings for teens (13-17 years).
** My openings for teens are all currently full. Please connect with me if you need help finding another therapist or support service.***
Therapeutic approaches and modalities that inform my work:
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Compassion-Focused Therapy
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
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Mindfulness-based self-compassion
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Positive Psychology
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Gottman method for couples therapy
Issues I work with include:
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anxiety
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depression/low mood
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stress
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anger
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obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
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eating disorders/disordered eating
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body image dissatisfaction
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low self-esteem or self-confidence
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discovering and enhancing personal strengths
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life coaching
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goal-setting and achievement
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procrastination
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perfectionism
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performance anxiety (tests, presentations)
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study skills (organization, time management, goal-setting)
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farmer mental health
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highly sensitive people (HSP)
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communication
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parenting
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couples therapy
- self-harm
- suicidal ideation
- trauma
- trichotillomania
Have questions? Please contact me by email and/or read through my guide on 'What to expect from therapy'.