My Approach to Helping
I help those with depression, distress or trauma from relationships, life events or work. Most clients experience relief within a month.
Life's transitions and challenges can feel overwhelming. If you're facing the end of a significant relationship, problems within a current relationship, work-related problems or have experienced a traumatic event, I'm here to help when you're feeling upset or stressed. As a licensed psychologist, I specialise in helping people navigate life events with compassion and expertise. Together, we can build a plan picking from a range of different modalities to find a treatment approach that will best meet your preferences, circumstances and concerns.
In my clinic, I offer personalised care using evidence-based therapeutic approaches like internal family systems (IFS), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and interpersonal therapy. We will work towards clarity, healing and a renewed sense of purpose. I offer a safe space, welcoming and respectful for all people and problems. I'm here to help, whether you are struggling with a big life change, coping with the daily grind, working through a relationship problem or facing a mental health crisis. I look forward to working with you!
More Info About My Practice
I offer in person, virtual and phone therapy with direct billing to Alberta Blue Cross, Medavie, NIHB and Veterans' Affairs. I also provide superbills to facilitate reimbursement if direct billing is not possible. I am covered in all major insurance plans that offer mental health coverage.
On the Fence About Going to Therapy?
Embarking on the journey of therapy can feel both exciting and daunting. Whether you're facing overwhelming emotions, seeking personal growth, or navigating life's challenges, starting therapy is a brave step toward a healthier you.
What is therapy? Does it work?
Therapy is a safe space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. It offers a supportive environment to unpack complex emotions, gain insights into your behaviours, and develop coping strategies. Many people find that talking to a trained professional helps them gain clarity and perspective on their issues as well as necessary skills to handle your challenges. Research has found that the average person who attends therapy does better than about 80% of those who do not. Moreover, we know the benefits gained in therapy stick. That is, the positive outcomes continue months and years after therapy ends.
What to Expect
Your first session will typically involve discussing your concerns and goals. This is an opportunity for you and your therapist to get to know each other and establish a foundation for your work together. Therapy is a collaborative process so this first session helps determine if you like your psychologist and will feel comfortable enough to share openly.
Overcoming Hesitations
Many individuals hesitate to start therapy due to fear or stigma. It?s normal to feel apprehensive about opening up to someone new. However, recognising the need for help is a sign of strength. Therapy is for everyone?regardless of the challenges you face. Making time for therapy reflects your commitment to self-care and personal growth.
If you?re ready to take this important step, we invite you to schedule an appointment with us online. Together, we can navigate your unique journey toward healing and self-discovery. Remember, you don't have to face it alone-support is just a click away!
Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist
Starting therapy is a significant step toward personal growth and emotional well-being. To ensure you maximise the benefits of your sessions, here are my practical tips to help you engage fully with your therapist and the therapeutic process.
Find the right therapist. Does the psychologist you are considering have the expertise and experience to address your specific concern? Some therapists are generalist and others are specialists, not all psychologists are well-positioned to treat every concern.
Find the right fit. Book a complimentary introductory phone call to see if you connect with the psychologist. If you don't connect with them, it will be harder to share freely, which, in turn, can hinder your progress. It's okay to be a bit uncomfortable, but simply, you need to like the person you'll be working with.
Find the right goal. Look, it's okay if you just feel bad but aren't sure exactly what you want to work on. But one of us needs to have some direction. Otherwise, we are packing for a trip without knowing a destination. If you're not sure, it's totally reasonable to ask your psychologist questions. Some meaningful questions to ask might be: what do you think our goal is? What is your clinical plan for me? Are the sessions going as you expected? How long might it take before I start to feel better?
Be open and forthcoming. This means sharing about your life experiences, thoughts, feelings and ideas. You have a captive audience of somebody solely committed to you, I invite you to use it! The more you share with your psychologist, the more likely they will be able to spot areas that you get stuck or develop helpful insights for you.
Practice in between sessions. Therapy sessions are like training camp, but the real benefits come from playing the game. Practicing in between sessions is an important part of improving your mental health and sustaining your gains.
Expect setbacks. It would be amazing to not have regressions or disappointments. Progress, however, is not always a steady improvement. If you're feeling defeated or discouraged, it can be tempting to throw in the towel. Instead, I invite you to come back into session and use the emotion as a vehicle for change. Setbacks happen, but they don't have to be defining or the end of the story.
Provide feedback. What worked well, what felt good, what did you really dislike ... maybe even hate. There is no single way to make improvements so the process can be adjusted to meet your needs. Your psychologist or therapist will (or should!) care about what is and isn't working for you and be ready to pivot and adjust.
I wish you well in your mental health journey and hope to see you soon, whether it is in session with me, in the community or around town. If you have any questions about therapy or would like a complimentary consultation, please reach out!
Clinicians who offer sliding scale payment structures may offer lower or reduced fees based on an individual's ability to pay. Please contact this clinician for more details regarding their fees or sliding scale policy.