Therapeutic Approach
Psychotherapy is a collaborative process that aims to provide a supportive environment for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where patients can openly express themselves and work towards positive change. My therapeutic approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of adolescents, adults, and seniors dealing with a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, complex trauma, relationship challenges, and career concerns.
My key therapeutic modality is psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy, which helps patients gain a better understanding of how their history informs their present. Patients can expect to explore childhood experiences, internal conflicts, relationships, and emotional expression. The aim of our work will be to promote awareness of unconscious, maladaptive recurring patterns of emotions and behaviour.
Other therapeutic approaches I employ include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), attachment-based therapy, existential therapy, emotion-focused therapy, narrative therapy, and person-centred therapy.
I provide a warm, non-judgmental, 2SLGBTQ+, and BIPOC safe space where people can be comfortable being their authentic selves as they share their stories. I am dedicated to continuously improving my practice to ensure the best possible outcomes for my patients. I value feedback and actively seek to incorporate the latest research and best practices into my work. If you are seeking professional support, I invite you to reach out and begin your journey towards healing and personal growth.
In addition to my psychotherapist hat, I also wear the hat of a certified Human Resources professional. My two decades of Human Resources experience in various corporate industries has afforded me skills and knowledge that I incorporate into my work as a psychotherapist, particularly in the areas of career goals and co-worker relationships.
Psychoanalytic/Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy is an approach rooted in the understanding that unconscious thoughts, desires, and memories significantly impact one's behaviour. The approach emphasizes resolving past conflicts that have an ongoing influence on personality and behaviour resulting in anxiety and panic, depression, interpersonal difficulties, unhealthy coping mechanisms, and distorted self-perceptions.
Many therapeutic approaches promote quick fixes to problems. However, true healing takes time. Psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy aims to promote deep understanding and insight into personal issues by exploring unconscious processes, which takes time. Patients seeking a solutions-focused approach to therapy with "quick results" within a set number of sessions, may want to reconsider psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy.
Psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy takes time for these key reasons:
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The Unconscious - Deep-rooted patterns and unresolved trauma need time to surface.
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Building Trust - A strong therapeutic relationship takes time to develop, which is essential for lasting change.
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Transference & Countertransference - These critical processes take time to unfold, allowing for deeper understanding and growth.
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Breaking Old Patterns - Repeating harmful behaviours requires ongoing reflection and consistent work.
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Internal Conflict - Working through emotional struggles and trauma is a gradual process, not a quick fix.
Collectively, the above elements contribute to significant improvements in patients' emotional and interpersonal functioning and promote long-term psychological growth and self-awareness.
Healing is a journey, not a race.