My Approach

My approach to therapy is first and foremost client-centered. I strive to meet my clients where they are and together determine the direction of our work together. I believe in being real, and my communication style tends to be down to earth, honest, and direct. I am open-minded and non-judgmental of alternative lifestyles and belief-systems.

 

My therapeutic framework has roots in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), but I utilize strategies from various therapeutic frameworks, including: mindfulness, mind-body interaction, family-systems, trauma focused CBT, emotion-focused, existential, and developmental psychology. 

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In my work with children and youth, I typically recommend a collaborative approach in which all elements of the child/youth's life (e.g., parents, school) are considered and included whenever possible and appropriate. 

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Working with a psychologist is as much about the right fit between therapist and client as it is about the work itself. Whereas a carpenter uses his or her hands and tools to do their work, the primary tool used by a psychologist is "ourselves." This also means that I won't be everyone's cup of tea, and that's ok. Anyone who has worked with me knows that I'm the "Queen of Analogies," so be prepared for those.