ABOUT SUSAN
BACKGROUND
On a personal level, dealing with loss/grief, anxiety, career and relationship changes — including the various stages of parenting — provided me with invaluable life experience,
and a deep regard for the value of authenticity. In the course of grappling with life's twists and turns, I have also benefited from my own in-depth process of soul searching and personal psychotherapy (so I know what it's like to be on the other side of the therapy room!)
My professional background was in the social services field, working with individuals who faced a variety of challenging life circumstances and systemic barriers. Through that work, as well as further post-graduate education and exploration, I became interested in more inclusive, holistic, and anti-oppressive approaches to counselling and change.
THERAPEUTIC APPROACH
I've been in private practice for over fifteen years, and have a supportive, trauma-informed approach to therapy, with a focus on healing, personal growth, and self-awareness.
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Through mindfulness, therapeutic inquiry, and collaborative exploration, I help clients connect with their inner resources and resilience. My approach is integrative and personalized to each individual, depending on their unique set of needs and circumstances.
Remaining actively engaged in ongoing learning and professional development is important to me, and continues to build on my skills and experience. I am passionate about this work and committed to the growth and empowerment of my clients.
EDUCATION
M.Sc. Psychology
2009, Walden University
Master of Science
B.A. Sociology
1992, Trent University
Bachelor of Arts
Mindfulness Professional Training
2007, University of Toronto
Certificate
Diploma, Holistic Psychotherapy
2006, Transformational Arts College
Diploma
EXPERIENCE
Registered Psychotherapist
2007 - Present
Private Practice
Social Services Caseworker
1994 - 2008
City of Toronto
Volunteer Advocacy
2002 - 2006
Massey Centre for Young Mothers
Clinical Member, OSRP
2016 - Present / Ongoing
Ontario Society of Registered
Psychotherapists
METHODS & FOCUS
​The primary focus of my practice is adult (18 and older) individuals seeking healing, change, and greater life satisfaction.
My style of therapy is holistic, integrative, and mindfulness-based. The foundation of my training was in humanistic, transpersonal and psychodynamic therapy.
I have also trained in cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness group facilitation, somatic therapies, trauma treatment, and the internal family systems approach.
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COMMON ISSUES
​I work with a variety of clients addressing such issues as:​
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Anxiety
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Grief and loss
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Self-esteem
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Trauma
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Stress management
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Life transitions
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Sexuality and intimacy