Modalities I draw upon, as appropriate.

Play Therapy:

Using a non-directive approach, I work with children through the mode of play.  While adults often talk out their narratives and feelings during sessions, children use play to achieve this.  Within the safe atmosphere of sessions, children are presented with the unique opportunity to delve into expressive, explorative, and therapeutic play.  Using my experience and knowledge about child development, I gain insight into the child's inner world through the precious gift of playfulness.  This allows me to follow the child's lead, working towards therapeutic goals.

Although primarily used with children, the benefits of play therapy can be seen in adolescents and adults.  When appropriate, I may suggest exploring play therapy with older clients.

Art Therapy:

Art therapy capitalizes on the creative spirit within us all.  Using art- whether it be clay, paint, pencil, et cetera- takes therapeutic work to a level where thoughts, feelings, and narrative may be expressed non-verbally.  At times, artistic exploration may be client-driven.  Other times, I may suggest a project or activity appropriate to the session and client's goals.

Art therapy is beneficial amongst all age groups, and like play therapy, can surprise adults with its freeing qualities.

Narrative is a wonderful gift.  Knowing one's story- what has come before and what we wish to experience-is healing and healthy.  At any age, we have the ability to consciously write our tales: will we be passive authors or take charge?  Perhaps that event in the past can be reframed and rewritten in a way that facilitates forward movement?  Maybe today is the day we decide to start the next chapter?   How this narrative is discovered and recorded can take varying forms.  When I explore narratives with clients, I work with individuals to do so in the manner most appropriate for them.  Narrative therapy is especially useful when working with trauma. 

Thoughts are linked to behaviour, and vice versa.  This is true for all developmental stages.  I bring components of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) into my practice.  Examining and challenging thoughts and behaviours can help us break free from unhealthy cycles.  We have the power to reframe how we view the world, which is very freeing!

Interpersonal Neurobiology

Interpersonal neurobiology blends the objectivity of science with the subjectivity of being human.  Looking at biological structures and thinking of the mind and brain as entities linked to social interaction and how we perceive the world is exciting!  In my practice, I use the knowledge of brain development to suggest appropriate interventions.

Humanistic psychology is based in optimism.  It believes everyone is the expert on themselves and successful therapy happens when therapist and client are engaged in a genuine relationship.  I strive to form honest and empathic relationships with my clients.  I believe clients (regardless of age) are the best judge of what works and what does not. To this end, all clients are encouraged to voice their opinions and ideas, especially if they differ from mine.  No one knows you better than yourself!  However, sometimes it is useful to have someone outside of you/your situation help you adjust your focus to see more clearly.

Therapy translates easily into other therapeutic modalities.  If Energy Therapy is something you are comfortable with, I can offer you techniques and interventions to foster a healthy energy field. My work with Energy Therapy is hands-off/no-touch and teaches the client how to reclaim their energetic space, versus having me work to clear it for them.  Two established methods used by many counsellors, that I draw upon, are Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping) and Logosynthesis.

Carl Jung suggested that there are symbols and archetypes inherent in the human experience.  With this in mind, I keep an eye open for meaning in symbols throughout sessions.  There are certain symbols and concepts that reach us all, and others are more individual.  If I discuss symbolism, clients are encouraged to let me know how it feels to them- am I on an interesting track of does it lack truth? Symbols may be seen in artwork, play, or through other means of narrative making.