Finding a style of counselling that's right for you
I am informed by a variety of counselling approaches, all evidence-backed. I have included some description below of what these approaches look like. and how they can help. Please feel free to book a free consultation with me to learn more about these approaches and which ones might be right for you.
Trauma healing using Internal Family Systems (IFS)
The Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach, aka "parts work", is very effective at healing all types of trauma - big t and little t. I guide clients on how to go inward and heal these wounds in a gentle, non-invasive way. The approach is deeply self-compassionate, and does not have to involve rehashing the details of the past through talk therapy. I believe IFS to currently be the most effective approach to trauma healing. IFS is an evidence-backed approach that is built on modern, empirical neuroscience research. I am currently in the process of being certified as a level 1 IFS practitioner.
Resolving the underlying problems that cause the symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, shame, anger, addiction, procrastination, indecision, burnout, etc.
Do you find yourself caught in repetitive and negative mental health patterns? Do you have the sense that you need to get to the root of the problem in order for real change to happen? In my experience, freedom comes from bringing what is currently unconscious into consciousness. I help clients get into a meditative state where they can gain insight into what is actually happening in their system. This new information determines what needs to happen in terms of healing and moving forward - which we then actively heal in session.
Self-awareness and self-empowerment
Learn how to lead from a seat of greater awareness and self knowledge, and develop the ability to work with all your parts in an embodied, empowered way.
Existential therapy
Sometimes the healing journey requires us to engage in a rigourous intellectual inquiry that involves a critical analysis of our world and our place in it. Oftentimes, this process involves the practice of direct experiential inquiry. As a lifelong seeker and learner, I can support clients who want to work with psychological, spiritual, social, cultural, philosophical and political concepts to help clarify thinking, and find meaning and purpose.
Relationships and partners counselling
When I work with partners, I am informed by a mix of counselling models: Emotions Focused Therapy (EFT) Internal Family Systems (IFS/ IFIO) and Psychoanalytic concepts. Partners can benefit from having an objective counsellor to help them identify and stop conflict patterns. Counselling often involves each partner going inward to examine their own relational needs, and then learn how to best communicate their needs to their partner. Partners also learn how to receive their partner's needs. Partners learn how to maintain an overall theme of appreciation, connection, and intimacy.
Nervous system regulation using Polyvagal approach
Sometimes it is necessary to focus on the body in our healing journey. I am informed by the research and work of Deb Dana and Steven Porges Polyvagal Approach. The Polyvagal Approach helps us learn how to map and regulate our own nervous system, helping us move out of chronic states of depression and/or activation and toward a place of ease.