Why Choose Me
My approach to therapy.
As a counsellor, I am committed to creating a warm, accepting environment for change and to using the approaches to therapy that have the strongest proven results. My counselling approach includes a combination of talking and experiential therapy that allows individuals to explore specific life issues, problems, concerns and events.
Good therapy is often thought of as a blend of art and science. In my experience, the main factor that usually determines how successful the therapy can be, lies with not the techniques used, but with our counsellor-client relationship. How you connect with the counsellor you choose is likely to determine how successful the treatment will be.
The Therapist-Client Relationship
Much of the art of therapy lies in the strength of the relationship between the therapist and client. A safe, warm, accepting, empathic relationship with my clients is the foundation for change. Regardless of the specific therapeutic techniques I am using, I work to ensure that all clients feel respected, valued, and truly heard in the time we spend together. Although I have training in understanding and treating problems, my clients are the true experts about their emotional world.
Individuals and couples are often uncertain what to expect from therapy, and feel vulnerable or afraid of being judged. My core belief is that the struggles clients experience make perfect sense given the challenges they have faced. While I work with individuals and couples to support change, I also believe that every client is of great value, just as they are at this moment. Even when the need for change is urgent, or mistakes have been serious, I believe that each person is doing the best they can do with the resources they have available. Therapy offers new resources, and can give clients the skills and perspective needed to forge a new path.
Therapeutic Style and Recommended Number of Sessions
My approach to counselling is Transpersonal, meaning that the human individual is much more than a body and a brain. My therapeutic style is one of compassion combined with a profound belief in your ability to heal, resolve issues, and move forward, becoming better prepared and ready to experience all life has to offer. I am closely aligned with the belief that meaningful change comes from deep within. It is not something that can be imposed by me as a therapist, nor are you expected to do it alone. It is through joint participation that we can explore whatever is important to you. Professional listening allows me to ask meaningful questions to help you better understand your true or authentic self by facing whatever issue or issues you choose, regardless how painful or shameful it may be. I work diligently to provide a nonjudgmental environment that is also caring and safe. This allows meaningful healing and change to occur more quickly. The required number of sessions you may need will depend on whether you have specific short term goals or want to explore your life more deeply. Both of these are valuable ways to help improve your quality of life.
Therapeutic Interventions
The specific interventions I use to help are drawn holistically from a variety of sources. These can include: Cognitive approaches (goal setting and understanding how the past influences the present), support, validation (hearing and understanding you as a unique and important person), emotional release (recognizing and releasing pent up anger, frustration, and pain), relaxation meditations, as well as others depending on your needs and desires. If you decide to enter therapy and are ever confused or unclear about any aspect of our work together you are welcome and encouraged to ask questions.
Team Approach
I am also open to a team approach and will gladly coordinate (if requested by you) with your physician, chiropractor, naturopath, acupuncturist, massage therapist, or any other professional care provider.
Intake Form
I find that by using an Intake Form it helps me get to know you better. It can also be a useful tool to clarify goals and directions for therapy. I use a collaborative interview style to complete the form. This allows you to elaborate on questions that are especially meaningful.
Possible Reactions to Therapy
In addition to offering support, healing, and growth, therapy can also bring with it many mixed feelings and emotions. It is not unusual to sometimes experience resistance or even anger. This is a normal reaction to making significant changes in your life. I strive to provide care and support throughout the process and am also a strong advocate of self-care. Self-care is an expression of self-worth and can provide grounding and support during difficult times. On a deeper level it can also reveal hidden aspects of your true self.
