Coping Skills
I am a warm, seasoned, excellently-trained psychologist. I help individuals who are feeling unhappy in their lives, with themselves or with their relationships. My specialty area is helping people cope with chronic illness. I virtually always have a few clients with these challenges, while the majority of my clients struggle with other issues.
As a Professional Member of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), I have developed expertise in helping others cope with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and subsequently, with other chronic illnesses (eg. Cancer; Diabetes, …). I’ve seen how pain can initiate growth, and ultimately, strength. This belief guides my practice and optimism.
Some of my specialities are working with clients who are experiencing relationship issues, grief, alcohol and drug, marital conflict, depression and anxiety, financial, separation and divorce issues . As well I do anger management and domestic violence counselling with both men and women.
Fees are based on a sliding scale according to household income. I also do Employee Assistance counselling and working with Victims of crime.
My passion is helping people achieve their goals and address their concerns. But, I know the first step is often the hardest step. For over a decade I have been working with individuals and families obtain their goals. Whether you know specifically what you want to achieve or just know you want something different, we’ll journey through the process together in a respectful, safe and confidential manner.
I specialize in working with school age children and adults experiencing behavioral or mood issues. Each of us are unique individuals and need an individualized approach to optimize our efforts. Using evidence based strategies we’ll develop a plan that utilizes your strengths and takes into consideration your unique situation.
We are impacted by our family histories and, as we understand this, we can make new choices. I’ll help you look at addictive behavior patterns, family systems, abuse history, foster family experiences, grief/loss/healing, and personal growth challenges. I also do group therapy work with adolescents, adults and seniors.
Feel free to call with questions and discuss what you are looking for in therapy. Together we can de-escalate a crisis, develop goals or process an experience. If you are interested in my approach to addictions, I believe in the 12-Step model. Nevertheless I do respect alternative recovery paths.
My clinical approach is strongly rooted in attachment theory. This orientation provides me with an understanding of clients’ emotional needs, how they cope with these needs alone and within their closest relationships. I use techniques from a variety of different evidence-based therapeutic approaches to address client concerns.
My past academic research in psychotherapy guides my assessment of how clients progress through therapy. I engage in regular consultations with other eating disorder professionals, and I am an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at Mount Allison University.
Considering the first steps towards making lasting changes takes courage, especially if you’re not one to ask for help. It can get easier. I am an experienced counsellor who can help you identify and work through your challenges, allowing you to become a stronger and more confident person.
I am currently accepting new clients and offer both daytime and evening appointments. I also conduct telephone sessions if you live outside the city or have trouble getting to my office regularly. Extended health benefit plans often cover the fees of Registered Social Workers. Connect with me today and take the first step.
I offer Sunday hours for busy individuals. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or a loved one, support is out there. The key is finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I provide an environment that is safe and easy for you to express yourself without fear of judgement or shame. My approach is gentle, warm, and supportive. My goal is to help you gain insight, identify your strengths, improve your coping skills, and most importantly, to feel better.
I know how hard it is to make the first appointment. I encourage you to contact me for a brief consultation to see if we would work well together. If you’re not ready for this step, I hope you take some time to explore my website to get more information.
My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to: ** childhood abuse ** foster care ** juvenile justice ** adoption ** vicarious trauma/compassion fatigue ** cultural differences in relationships (ex: couples from different cultures and Americanized child of immigrant parents) ** history of sexual exploitation ** difficult relationships **