My approach to individual therapy

A good fit is crucial for the successful outcome of therapy. One of the most important factors for clients to consider is the fit they have with their therapist: personality, comfort, and style. 

My approach to individual counselling and psychotherapy is person-centered and psychodynamic. We begin by identifying the origins of your issues and how they impede you in your life today. I accompany you patiently and compassionately while we explore the full extent of your complaints and your resources. This knowledge grounds us while we work to change harmful patterns and shift stuck feelings using therapeutic techniques I tailor to fit your personality and our dynamic together.

Some approaches and techniques I use include:

• Gestalt: an experiential method that uses evoked feelings to access the potential for change

• Existential: how we see our place in the world and what you find meaningful

• Cognitive-Behavioural: how our thoughts and perceptions influence what we feel

• Somatic: how our nervous system is responding to stimuli

The couple therapy process

As a couple therapist, I have an integrative approach. My interventions are informed by modern research, relying on attachment science (Emotion-Focused Couple Therapy) and the Gottmans’ body of research on relationship makes and breaks.

I prefer to begin with a longer first session (90 minutes) to get to know you as a couple and what brings you to therapy. This may involve a relationship history, identifying the negative dynamics between you two, and what you’d like to restore/repair or what new place you’d like to grow to in your relationship.

I also will ask to see each of you individually for up to 90 minutes to understand your unique history prior to your current relationship. This informs how I work with the two individuals toward their couple goals. After this, the majority of our sessions will be together. From time to time, we may meet individually again at points which we may feel stuck.