Our First Session
Prior to the outbreak of COVID-19,
we would meet for your intake session in my office. However, as per the recommendations by Public Health authorities to optimize social distancing, for health and safety reasons we’ll be meeting online on a PIPEDA (Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act) compliant, confidential platform. During your phone consultation we’ll be discussing how to access the platform and payment, and how to get the most out of our sessions together.
In our first session,
I will spend time to get to know you. We will talk about what brings you to therapy, as well as your expectations of therapy. We will also discuss your background history, including your family history, psychological history, previous traumas and current relationships.
My Approach
Each person is unique, which is why I use a client-centered / integrative therapeutic approach that is tailored to your individual needs. I have been trained in Cognitive-Behavioural therapy, but I also integrate elements from mindfulness and positive psychology in my work with clients.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a form of psychotherapy in which we examine and identify negative thought patterns about ourselves, others and the world that contribute to our suffering. By changing our thoughts, we alter our emotions and behaviours. The objective of CBT is to challenge maladaptive beliefs and thought processes (e.g., self defeating thoughts) that contribute to problematic behavioural patterns and negative emotions such as depression and anxiety.
Mindfulness
By practicing mindfulness, we spend time in the present moment with acceptance, which allows us to let go of ruminative thoughts about our past or anxious anticipation for the future. Mindfulness is the awareness of the present with a nonjudgmental perspective. We actively observe and accept thoughts, feelings and bodily sensations as they arise, without judgment or resistance. Mindfulness allows us to ground ourselves and be compassionate to ourselves. It also helps us better regulate our emotions. It is frequently used to help individuals with depression, anxiety, chronic pain and other emotional distress.
Positive Psychology
Positive psychology focuses on positive experiences and traits (e.g., happiness, love, compassion and gratitude). In our work together, we explore your strengths, as well as values that bring you life satisfaction, mental wellbeing, hope and confidence. We all have unique strengths and coping skills that might have been clouded by our current negative emotional state. I am here to help you recover and utilize these innate resources that you possess.