I use evidence-based therapeutic approaches of: Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, along with a range of other therapeutic components that are research informed.  I use these various approaches in order to help people come to understand what interferes and blocks their mental health and wellbeing. My goal is to help people resolve distressing symptoms, heal from root causes of issues, and guide them in their journey to mental health.

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  What is IFS?

Internal family systems therapy (IFS) is based on two very simple ideas: every single person has Self energy and every single person has parts. Our parts show up in different ways for us: feelings, thoughts, sensations, images, colours, beliefs, fantasies, reactions, behaviours, or other ways. Some parts carry our emotional wounds, hurt, trauma and disturbing memories, other parts take on roles to protect the wounded parts with the intention to help us survive.  The protector parts can take over the internal system by hi-jacking the system so to speak so that the Self is no longer in control.  The goal of IFS is for Self to regain internal leadership by working non-judgementally with the protector parts and helping the wounded parts find healing or unburden from their trauma load.  This approach was developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz over 30 years ago.

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  What is EMDR?

Researched through numerous controlled studies, EMDR has been found to be a highly effective approach to Trauma therapy. The idea behind EMDR is that traumatic events are not fully processed at the time they happened but are instead "locked" into the brain in a raw state. Without processing they are not sent to the long-term memory bank but remain stuck and can suddenly be "triggered" by sights, sounds, smells, emotions, situations, sensations.  EMDR allows the brain to return and process these memories in a safe way using alternating eye movements, tapping or sounds.  EMDR is a comprehensive therapy approach and should be conducted by a properly trained therapist.  If you would like more information about EMDR see www.EMDRIA.com and www.EMDRCanada.com.

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  What is CBT?

CBT is a psychotherapy approach based on the recognition that our thoughts, emotions and behaviours are all inter-connected and our interpretation of these factors lead to our reactions in various situations.  CBT helps people improve their mood and daily functioning by identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns, behaviours and related emotions. 

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  What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment, through a gentle, nurturing practice.  When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we're sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future.  Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness, even for just a few weeks, can bring a variety of physical, psychological, and social benefits.

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