therapy focus

Queer and Trans Affirming Always!

I am part of the queer community and offer psychotherapy that affirms queer and trans identities, and am a fervent intersectionality focused conspirator for queer liberation and social change.

Self Worth

Sometimes we tell ourselves stories about our own worth. These can come in the form of narratives or beliefs that surface and can cause us to feel like we don’t belong, aren’t good enough, or don’t deserve good things, among others. For me, therapy is a place to compassionately investigate these narratives or beliefs with someone who truly cares. I draw on parts work, narrative externalizing, and relational approaches to help clients learn how to challenge or set aside some of these narratives and beliefs, and do the courageous work of cultivating new, empowering ones.

Trauma Informed

Being trauma informed is more than a label. It’s a way of engaging with trauma that is centred in the knowledge of how trauma affects us, and to avoid re-traumatization through the therapy process. Using positive psychology and narrative work in my practice, I help clients develop confidence and skills to help mitigate the impact of psychological trauma in their lives.

Anxiety

Anxiety is pervasive worry or fear that can impact our daily functioning and mood. It can manifest generally, and/or in academics, sleep, phobias, sexual performance, socially, and in the form of panic and catastrophizing, among others. Having a safe place to compassionately investigate and understand anxiety is important. I use a relational approach and draw from skills-based approaches like CBT and DBT to help clients with anxiety.

Negative Experiences with Religion

I grew up queer in a conservative Roman Catholic community. The combination of close knit patriarchal community dynamics, indoctrination, and nuanced reward systems made it difficult to stay and difficult to leave. Regardless of sexuality or gender, the legacy of a religious upbringing can be a point of struggle and distresss. I use narrative and relational approaches to help clients overcome these complex and challenging dynamics in the hope of reaching a place of confidence and peace.

I also have an insatiable curiosity to branch out and learn more about the world’s belief systems. My undergrad (BA, Min. Religious Studies) provided me with the knowledge and wisdom of many of the world’s religions and the complicated, sometimes painful and sometimes wonderful, systems that impact how we feel about ourselves and our communities.

Neurodivergence

I am a neurodivergent psychotherapist who understands the nuance and challenges associated with ADHD particularly. Our journeys as humans navigating a neurotypical world can be fraught with experiences that affect our self-image, confidence, and skill building. My work with neurodivergent folks centres on self compassion and cultivating or re-conceptualizing skills to thrive and achieve.