My Approach
Initially, there will be an in depth assessment, and we will collaborate to set goals and a treatment plan. Based on client interests and treatment indications, a variety of therapeutical modalities may be recommended. You will explore how past and present relationships and experiences affect your feelings, thoughts, and needs. I will assist you in finding new insights and strategies into better understanding yourself and your relationships. Some of the modalities I offer include:
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Attachment-Focused-EMDR - EMDR is an evidence based model for healing trauma, that works with the body's Adaption Information Processing system to release stored trauma from neural networks of the brain. This therapy is useful if you have experienced a single shocking traumatic event/ series of events, or for childhood abuse recovery. The treatment focuses on activating stored neural networks of the brain, and then gently allowed the memories and negative self-cognitions to reprocess and integrate using "bilateral simulation". I am fully certified in EMDR.
Psychodynamic Therapy - we explore your personal history and experiences to understand and move forward from negative or stuck life-experiences and traumas.
Mind-Body Approaches - I offer several mind-body holistic approaches including Mindfulness, Polyvagal based therapy, Sensory-Motor Psychotherapy, and Creative Arts Therapy.
Humanist Therapy - is based in the belief that all of us are capable of self growth and discovery with the right support; the therapeutic relationship offers a safe place to explore one's life path and grow towards ones full potential. The client is the expert on their own life story.
COUPLES THERAPY
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) - methods developed and empirically verified by Dr. Susan Johnson teach us how to identify and shift negative interactional cycles (demand/withdraw, attack/attack, freeze/flee), by replacing blame, distancing, and criticism with new emotional experiences of being accessible, responsive, and engaged.
Gottman Therapy - methods scientifically developed by Drs. John & Julie Gottman teach us how to accept "bids for connection" and influence, replace the “four horsemen of the apocalypse” (defensiveness, criticism, stonewalling, contempt) with their antidotes, strengthen "love maps", nurture fondness and admiration, and explore the art of compromise.
Narrative Therapy - you learn to "externalize" your problems by "naming" them (ex: "the anxiety is telling me xyz"), constructing new narratives and deconstructing social influences that affect ones life (ex: I believed the story that sharing feelings makes me weak).
Cognitive & Dialectical Behavior Therapies - these structured psychoeducation-based therapies assist you to understand how your thoughts affect your emotions and moods. We use semi-structured textbook learning guided by the therapist.
Internal Family Systems - otherwise known as "parts work" - you get to know the parts of self called "managers" and "firefighters" that protect you from feeling scary emotions. These parts of self once served a needed protective function in childhood, but now can make life challenging when they take over your reactions. Listening to and accepting your vulnerable "parts" may foster self compassion and living from the true self.
Creative Arts Therapy - as an adjunct to other therapies, you may use creative play to explore life themes and integrate new learning. Creative art in therapy is not about the skills or outcome, but about the expressive process of self discovery.
Relationship and Communication Skills Training - learn Non-Violent Communication (NVC), a worldwide practice in compassionate self-aware communication; better relationships can facilitate improved mental health and greater life satisfaction.
EMDR for Couples - I am fully certified in EMDR, an evidence-based model for healing trauma that works with the body's own Adaption Information Processing system to release stored trauma from neural networks of the brain. Partners, working together or separately, process emotional injuries to facilitate new options for relating. Emotional safety is paramount.
Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT) - facilitate safety and connection: reduce threat responses in self and partner by creating a two-person system of nurturance and care based in secure attachment.
Psychodynamic Therapy - explore historical hurts that affect the couple dynamic today, and find new and connected ways to meet your needs as individuals and as a pair, based in Object Relations and Self-In-Relationship-Psychotherapy (SIRP)
Credentials
About Therapy
Are you feeling confused, distressed, or stuck? Working with a therapist can help. I am passionate about helping people understand themselves and learn new ways to address life's challenges. Relationships can be challenging, whether with family, friends, or co-workers. The same conflicts seem to keep repeating themselves with no sense of relief or resolution. I specialize in working with relationships - with family, friends, coworkers, spouses/ partners, dating..
In our first session together, we will discuss your goals, personal history, and the issues that bring you to therapy. Within the safety of the therapeutic setting, you will explore past and present experiences and relationships, and how these affect your current feelings, thoughts, and needs. I will assist you to find new insights and strategies.
I work with individual adults and couples, treating issues including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, CPTSD, stress, body image, LBGTQ+ issues, self-esteem, relationships, sexuality, affairs, parenting, dating, family of origin, attachment, personality, trust, and workplace challenges. Couples will explore new dynamics, relational skills, and self-awareness that are designed to enhance the relationship and personal growth. Having been raised in a diverse part of Montreal, I enjoy working with people from varied cultural and linguistic backgrounds and aim to offer culturally competent therapy.
You are welcome to schedule a free 15-minute "Meet and Greet" session to ask questions and see if I am the right person to assist you on your journey. I look forward to speaking with you and hearing your story!
