My approach

I work in the present moment, and I work relationally, which means I include myself in the session. The client and I co-create the work we do together. There is no “top down” approach here. I respect my clients’ ability to know what feels right for them and what doesn’t. I respond to my clients’ words, body language and feelings with openness and compassion, following their lead and working, respectfully, at their pace.

I have a lot of respect for the therapeutic relationship. In my training to become a therapist at the Gestalt Institute of Toronto, I was required to do at least 50 hours of my own therapy work. Here’s where I learned what it feels like to be the one sitting on the couch. Feelings come up, and it isn’t comfortable. Feelings that we have avoided through compulsive working or eating, through addictions, through binge-watching, through numbing ourselves in various ways, through thinking and thinking and thinking. It takes a lot of courage to walk through my door. I get it. And for many of my clients it’s because they didn’t know what else to do.

The key word I use often in my sessions is SUPPORT. We don’t often get the support we need — whether it’s because we’re so good at supporting ourselves, or don’t trust that others will come through for us, or because it just isn’t there. Any new situation brings with it a healthy amount of anxiety (or you might call it excitement). For example, you walk into a new building and aren’t sure where the office is. You might feel a slight sensation of anxiety.  However, you’ve walked into new buildings before and have an idea where the office might be, or you know how to ask for directions. That’s the support you draw on, and your anxiety diminishes because you know what to do. With support, we can face new challenges and situations in a healthy way.  Without support, a new situation can feel traumatic, cause a lot of anxiety, or bring up shame.

I provide support by listening, by going into the dark places with you, by accepting you for who you are, by being with you in your feelings, and by challenging you with compassion so that you can take a risk and try something new.

I am currently accepting new clients.

I work with individuals and couples.

My rates are: $150 for individuals for a one hour session,  $225 for couples for a 90 minute session.

Cancellation policy: I ask for 24 hours’ notice for cancellations in order to avoid being charged the full rate of the session.

All are welcome. I am covered by some extended health plans. Ask your health care provider if you are covered for Registered Psychotherapists. I am registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario, CRPO #001042.

For a free 15 minute phone consultation, please call 647-401-4887. All calls are confidential.